The Best Attractions in Marco Island

The Marco Island Historical Museum brings the island’s rich past to life, from the ancient Calusa people who once thrived here to the modern development of the community as a world-class destination. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring rare artifacts, including a remarkable recreation of the famous Key Marco Cat, alongside displays on pioneer life and the island’s transformation over the years. With interactive galleries and family-friendly programming, the museum offers a fascinating way to connect with the cultural and historical roots of Marco Island.

Otter Mound Preserve is a hidden gem tucked away in the Indian Hills section of Marco Island, protecting just under 2.5 acres of rare tropical hardwood hammock and ancient history. The site is built upon a massive shell midden created by the Calusa people between 700 and 1200 AD, which provides elevated, alkaline soil that supports a lush canopy of gumbo limbo trees and strangler figs. Named after Ernest Otter, who lived on the property in the mid-20th century, the preserve is famous for the intricate, hand-built whelk shell terraces and walls he constructed to line his gardens.

Visitors can explore the preserve via a short, 0.1-mile mulched loop trail that winds past historic artifacts, including a pioneer-era wooden outhouse and interpretive signs detailing the area's rich archaeological past. Located at 1831 Addison Court, the preserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and features a small three-car parking lot and a bike rack. 

Entry and parking at Otter Mound Preserve is free.