The actual museum part of the Collier County Museum (3301 E. Tamiami Tr., 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sat., free) is interesting enough, with displays and exhibits documenting the area’s past from prehistory to the present. Considerable attention is given to the Calusa people and other regional Native American groups.
The five-acre grounds around the museum, however, make it an interesting destination. The beautiful property houses two historic cottages, a recreated Seminole village, a beautiful garden of native plants, and even a Sherman tank. It’s unique, engaging, and free.