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Fort Myers, Florida: Shell Factory

Vast seashell and souvenir shop: 5 million shells, and its own post office. Opened in 1938. Claims to have the largest collection of stuffed animals in the world. Live animal park behind the building has a diving cat. JFK Conspiracy Room.

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Shell Factory and Waltzing Waters

The Shell Factory claims to be "the world's largest shell factory." They also have a "Waltzing Waters" light and water show. The Shell Factory is a mid-century relic. The Shell Factory is a sprawling tourist trap with a nature park, a seafood and steak restaurant, bumper boats, a video game arcade, and gift shops.

The Shell Factory tries to be all things to all people, which at times results in a confusing juxtaposition of elements, such as Santa Claus... next to faux taxidermy... next to acrylic toilet seats with shells inside.

[Kristy Chan, 07/03/2010]

That's our kind of gift shop!

Waltzing Waters.

Waltzing Waters - Shell Factory

Waltzing Waters presents "Liquid Fireworks," a patented array of individually moving nozzles creating truly stunning effects. The waters jump, twist, sway and swirl in breathtaking movements that surpass those of human dancers. The world's most elaborate water, light and music production is a triumph of artistry and engineering.

The expertise of three generations comes with every Waltzing Waters show. Otto Przystawik invented the first musical fountains over 70 years ago, and the family tradition continues today.

Come and see our nightly displays here at The Shell Factory. The water dances with musical themes from rock to classical masterpieces to show tunes. All shows are unique -- you will never see the same show twice.

[Joyc Joray, 02/07/2007]

2010: Waltzing Water is no longer operating at the Shell Factory. 2006: We enjoyed a performance of the Waltzing Waters back when it was housed indoors (the smell of mildew is vivid in our memories). But it's true -- the water streams are manipulated through elaborate plumbing first devised in the 1930s.

Shell Factory

Huge replica of Sea Shell is displayed at the entrace to this attraction -- site also features a wild life park - water cars - restaurants and gift shops. Buy almost any type of shell ornament.

[Bill Tomsick, 05/28/2001]
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Shell Factory

Shell Factory and Nature Park

Address:
2787 N. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL
Directions:
Shell Factory and Nature Park. North edge of the city. On the west side of US Hwy 41/N. Tamiami Trail about 1.5 miles south of Del Prado Blvd N.
Hours:
Daily 10-5 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
239-995-2141
Admission:
Free. Animal park $13.
RA Rates:
Worth a Detour
Save to My Sights

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In the region:
St. James Automotive Gas Memorabilia, St. James City, FL - 18 mi.

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