IMAG History & Science Center - Fort Myers, Florida

IMAG History & Science Center: A Comprehensive Exploration of Learning and Fun

Nestled in the heart of Fort Myers, Florida, the IMAG History & Science Center, located at 2000 Cranford Ave, stands as a beacon of interactive learning and entertainment for both locals and visitors alike. This sprawling 64,000 square-foot facility, opened in 2002, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages, with a particular focus on children and families.

Main Services

• Museum Exhibits: IMAG History & Science Center boasts an impressive array of permanent and traveling exhibits that cater to various interests. Some of the most popular permanent exhibits include the Water Ways exhibit, which explores the history and ecology of Southwest Florida's waterways, and the Paleo Lab, where visitors can glimpse into the region's prehistoric past.
• Aquarium: Home to a diverse array of marine life, the aquarium at IMAG History & Science Center offers visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about the fascinating creatures that call Florida's waters home. The aquarium houses a variety of fish, rays, and even sharks, as well as a touch tank where visitors can interact with gentle marine creatures.
• Children's Museum: Designed specifically for young learners, the IMAG History & Science Center's Children's Museum offers a wealth of hands-on, interactive exhibits that foster curiosity and creativity. The PlayZone, for example, is a popular area where children can engage in imaginative play and learn through role-playing.
• Live Programs and Demonstrations: The IMAG History & Science Center regularly hosts live programs and demonstrations that bring science and history to life. These interactive experiences, led by knowledgeable staff members, allow visitors to observe and participate in a variety of engaging activities, such as live animal encounters and science experiments.
• Gift Shop: The IMAG History & Science Center's gift shop offers a unique selection of educational toys, games, and books, as well as a variety of souvenirs and keepsakes that commemorate a visit to the center.
• Café Solaz: This on-site café, operated by the center, offers a variety of menu options, including salads, sandwiches, and snacks, making it the perfect place to refuel during a day of exploration and discovery.

Location and Access

The IMAG History & Science Center is situated in the Cranford Park neighborhood of Fort Myers, convenient to both downtown and the city's popular riverfront area. The center is easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available on-site. Those traveling by public transportation can take the LeeTran bus service, which has a stop near the center.

Featured Characteristics

• Wheelchair Accessibility: IMAG History & Science Center is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the facility, regardless of ability. The center is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking available.
• Educational Programs: In addition to its wealth of interactive exhibits, the IMAG History & Science Center offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages. These programs, which can be customized to meet the needs of specific groups, provide a hands-on, engaging learning experience.
• Event Hosting: The IMAG History & Science Center's unique and engaging environment makes it an ideal location for hosting a variety of events, including birthday parties, corporate events, and weddings. The center offers several rental options, including the Pioneer Room and the Science Theater, both of which can accommodate groups of varying sizes.

Practical Information

• Admission: Admission to the IMAG History & Science Center varies depending on age and residency status. Current admission prices can be found on the center's website (theimag.org). Children under the age of 2 receive free admission.
• Hours of Operation: The IMAG History & Science Center is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The center is closed on Mondays, as well as on major holidays. It is recommended that visitors check the center's website for the most up-to-date information regarding hours of operation and any temporary closures.
• Contact Information: To learn more about the IMAG History & Science Center or to plan a visit, contact the center by phone at 2392430043 or by email at [email protected].

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Google My Business, based on 1,722 reviews, the IMAG History & Science Center has clearly made a positive impression on the majority of its visitors. Some of the most frequently mentioned positive aspects include:

• Interactive Exhibits: Many visitors rave about the center's hands-on exhibits, which they describe as both fun and educational.
• Live Animal Encounters: The live animal encounters and demonstrations are consistently praised for being engaging, informative, and entertaining.
• Staff Knowledgeability: The staff at IMAG History & Science Center is frequently commended for their friendliness and expertise, with many visitors noting that the staff's enthusiasm and passion for their work enhanced their overall experience.
• Cleanliness and Accessibility: Several visitors have noted the center's cleanliness and ease of navigation, as well as its wheelchair accessibility.
• Value for Money: Many visitors have commented that the IMAG History & Science Center offers excellent value for money, with some noting that they had spent hours exploring the facility and still hadn't seen everything it had to offer.

The IMAG History & Science Center's commitment to providing an engaging, interactive, and educational experience for visitors of all ages has clearly resonated with the majority of its patrons. With its wealth of hands-on exhibits, live programs, and educational opportunities, the center continues to be a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

👍 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.