North Fort Myers’ iconic Shell Factory & Nature Park is set to close its doors this September, ending an 86-year chapter in the community’s history. The announcement was made on the park’s Facebook page, signaling the end of an era for the beloved attraction that has operated since 1938.
The Shell Factory’s final days will be the weekends of September 20-22 and September 27-29, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the Fun Park has already been closed, on-site restaurants will continue to serve a limited menu during these weekends, though only while supplies last.
In a heartfelt statement, owner Pam Cronin expressed the difficulty of making this decision: “This has been an incredibly hard decision, as the Shell Factory has been a huge part of our community and my life. We are so proud of the countless joyous experiences shared here—whether aboard bumper boats, in our nature park, at the mini-golf course, or within our shops and restaurants.”
The closure is attributed to the “costly upkeep of an 86-year-old property,” which ultimately made it unsustainable to keep the park running. One of the park’s immediate priorities is the safe relocation of the more than 400 animals residing there. Shell Factory leaders are working closely with wildlife officials to ensure each animal is safely re-homed.
As the park approaches its final days, the community has been invited to reminisce and share their memories on the company’s Facebook page. For many, the Shell Factory was more than just a local attraction; it was a place where countless family memories were made, and its absence will undoubtedly be felt across North Fort Myers.
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