IMAG History & Science Center - Fort Myers, Florida

IMAG History & Science Center: A Comprehensive Guide to the Ultimate Family Destination

The IMAG History & Science Center is a world-renowned museum located in Fort Myers, Florida, that offers a unique blend of interactive exhibits, live performances, and educational activities for visitors of all ages. With its rich history and commitment to science education, IMAG has become a staple in the community, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Main Services

• Museum: Explore the vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the history and science of the region.
• Aquarium: Get up close and personal with a variety of marine life, including live rays, turtles, tortoises, and other exotic creatures.
• Children's Museum: Engage in hands-on activities and exhibits designed specifically for kids, promoting learning and development through play.
• Gift Shop: Take home a piece of IMAG's magic with a wide range of souvenirs, gifts, and educational materials.
• Science Museum: Delve into the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, experiments, and demonstrations.

Location and Access

IMAG History & Science Center is located at 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The museum is situated in the heart of the city, within walking distance of several restaurants, hotels, and other attractions.

• Address: 2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916
• Phone: 2392430043
• Website: theimag.org
• Onsite Services: IMAG offers a range of services, including guided tours, educational programs, and special events.
• Live Performances: Enjoy live shows, lectures, and demonstrations throughout the year, featuring local and national performers.
• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: IMAG is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Ample parking is available for visitors with mobility impairments.
• Restroom: Clean and accessible restrooms are available throughout the museum.
• Restaurant: The IMAG Cafe offers a variety of snacks and meals, perfect for families or individuals on the go.
• Good for Kids: IMAG is designed with children in mind, offering a range of activities and exhibits that promote learning and fun.
• Free Parking Lot: Parking is free for all visitors, making it easy to plan your visit.
• On-Site Parking: Ample parking is available for visitors who prefer to park on-site.

Featured Characteristics

IMAG History & Science Center is known for its unique blend of history, science, and education. Some of the museum's most notable features include:

• Lots of Hands-On Exhibits: IMAG offers a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn through play.
• Live Creatures: Get up close and personal with live rays, turtles, tortoises, and other exotic creatures.
• Live Science Experiments: Witness live science experiments, demonstrations, and lectures that showcase the wonders of science.
• Exotic Creatures: IMAG is home to a variety of exotic creatures, including snakes, lizards, and birds.
• Hands-On Activities: Engage in a range of hands-on activities and exhibits designed specifically for kids.
• Interactive Displays: Explore interactive displays that showcase the history and science of the region.
• Special Events: IMAG hosts a range of special events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and festivals.

Practical Information

Before planning your visit to IMAG History & Science Center, here are some practical details to keep in mind:

• Hours of Operation: IMAG is open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours during peak season.
• Admission: Admission prices vary depending on age, residency, and membership status. Check the IMAG website for current pricing.
• Food and Drink: The IMAG Cafe offers a variety of snacks and meals, as well as a full-service restaurant.
• Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms are available throughout the museum.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: IMAG is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
• Stroller-Friendly: IMAG is stroller-friendly, with wide aisles and accessible restrooms.
• Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use, but tripods and commercial photography require prior permission.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

IMAG History & Science Center has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors of all ages. Some of the top praises include:

• Lots of Hands-On Exhibits: Visitors rave about the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that promote learning and fun.
• Live Creatures: The live creatures, including rays, turtles, and tortoises, are a highlight for many visitors.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Visitors praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who are always happy to answer questions and provide guidance.
• Family-Friendly: IMAG is a must-visit for families, with a range of activities and exhibits that cater to kids of all ages.
• Unique Experiences: Visitors praise the unique experiences and programs offered by IMAG, including live science experiments and lectures.
• Accessibility: IMAG's wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendliness make it an ideal destination for visitors with mobility impairments.

👍 Reviews of IMAG History & Science Center

Phil V.

5/5

Lots of hands-on exhibits for the kids and adults to learn. Live rays, turtles, tortoise and other exotic creatures. A live science experiments with hot and cold things was fun for all. We visited on a half price community day so it was worth it.

Kathryn H.

5/5

We had a fantastic experience. The staff was nice and knowledgeable. They have a lot of experiences and learning activities for children. We went just adults and had a great time. Without watching the shows, I’d recommend setting aside 1.5 hours to take everything in. Not a huge place but cool display collections and animals.

Miley R.

2/5

We were really looking forward to visiting IMAG in Ft. Myers, and while the staff was super nice, I have to be honest—over half of the activities for kids were broken. I’m not exaggerating. I don’t mind paying to take my toddler somewhere new, but $80 for two hours of barely anything to do just isn't worth it. It's frustrating to see so many exhibits out of order, especially when you're charging full price. The only highlight of our visit was getting to pet Lucas. IMAG has a lot of potential, but they really need to maintain and fix the exhibits before charging families these prices.

Toni T.

4/5

This history and science center offers a variety of science experiences and a great look at Florida history of the Seminole Indians. Some of the exhibits are not working, including one of the Virtual Reality headsets. I enjoyed the sting ray tank, that was not crowded.
The tortoises are awesome to see up close, with tortoises from North Africa and South America.
The outdoor exhibits highlight the Okefenokee Swamp and Florida flora.
Prior to the entry, prior to paying, the tribute to the 911 event at the World Trade Center in NYC includes a huge chunk of the original World Trade Center is worth a visit.
Picnic tables available. The cafe is not open at this time. Reasonably priced gift shop items that are all fun science toys and stuffed animals.
The price is slightly high considering that several exhibits are not working.Annual memberships available.
Wheel chair access van free parking. Touch pad accessible entry. All wheel chair access on lower level.
Strollers and wheel chairs available during your visit.
Wheel chair accessible womens and mens restrooms with hands free hand wash.

McKie R.

3/5

Free parking. Wheelchair accessible. They have a very small luncheon station where you can buy, fries, sandwiches, popcorn pop etc. Outside they have a memorial for 9/11. As you enter the building there is a shop for merchandise and novelty items. Also on the main level is pool with Ray Sharks that you can pet and live presentations throughout the day. There is a tribute to the World Wars and Naples contribution, along with the First Nations Indigenous Peoples. Outdoors they have a theatre that plays movies every 40 minutes. Outdoors they also have turtles. Stairs will take you to the upper level which is dedicated to Space and a short live presentation. Some of the interactive games and modules were not working. The place looked slightly run town. Staff seems uninterested in their jobs. Food was mediocre. In the theatre they provided 3D glasses and a disinfectant for patrons to reuse/ re-wear. I thought this was extremely unhygienic. Overall I wish there was more to see at the centre.

Erika M.

4/5

It was very fun. However, I felt it was meant for kids younger than me. The boat play place was interesting, we couldn't get my brother to leave, but it was kind of small. So it might be beneficial for them to expand the boat play place. The 9/11 fact boards out front were cool. I like the timeline of events.

Kristen P.

5/5

Great place for birthday party! They do everything & all I was responsible for was the cake. We chose the “science” theme & the kids were led in a few experiments. The room decor was cute. The pizza & lemonade were great. The staff was AMAZING. They had our 2 hours scheduled out perfectly. All of the guests enjoyed their experience at the IMAG. I highly recommend hosting your child’s birthday here.

Beth Y.

5/5

Unfortunately there was a tropical storm during our vacation to Florida so we took the kids to history and science center. The kids loved it and there was plenty to do. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see much outside due to rain. But it slowed down for about 20 min for us to go wander the garden and see the tortoise. It wasn’t ridiculously expensive. if you’re looking for somewhere to take your kids out of the weather check this place out.

Mar’Tavis D.

5/5

My niece and I visited on a Monday around noon and found the experience to be quite enjoyable. The staff was welcoming, and the lack of crowds allowed for ease of movement. Overall, the visit was positive and entertaining, and we anticipate returning frequently.

Sirinity F.

5/5

Super fun way to spend an afternoon out of the sun when visiting fort Meyers Beach. Between the extreme UV index and the occasional afternoon storms we needed something to keep the 9 and 10 year old busy, that would also be appropriate for the 11 week old baby. This was a mega win. The 15 year old also enjoyed the exhibits, especially the sting ray tank. The 3D shows were nice also, for sitting and relaxing for 23 minutes.

Brian S.

5/5

This place is really great. The exhibits are very engaging and often interactive and the rhe staff are great. There's lots to explore and it would be easy to spend a half day at this place.
We loved the 3D movie about blue whales in particular.

Taking A. R.

5/5

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the IMAG History & Science Museum, and it was an absolute delight! From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the diverse and interactive exhibits. It's truly a place where history and science come alive for all ages.
​The museum strikes a perfect balance between educational content and hands-on fun. We particularly loved the marine touch tank, where you can get up close with local sea life. The animal area was also a highlight, getting to be upclosewith so many amazing, and many adorable creatures was our favoritepart! Plus we got to play with a few of the snakes and even held the bearded dragon😍. My kids were completely enthralled, and honestly, so was I!
​What truly makes IMAG stand out is the passion of the staff. They were incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely excited to share their love of the museum's subjects. Their enthusiasm made our visit even more special and personal.
​Whether you're a family looking for a fun and educational outing, a couple on a date, or just someone curious about the world around you, IMAG is a must-visit. It's a hidden gem that offers a fantastic experience for everyone. We can't wait to go back and explore more!

Kimberly A.

4/5

We’ve visited several times and always enjoyed the variety of indoor and outdoor activities. On our most recent visit, though, several attractions were closed or out of order, with no signs posted and no discount offered for the inconvenience. Some areas are also showing wear, like the foam blocks and faded water boats, which could use updating. Still a fun place overall, but we’ll likely wait to return until more of the attractions are updated, repaired or replaced.