The Shell Factory & Nature Park, a beloved North Fort Myers attraction that has entertained generations of visitors for 86 years, has announced its permanent closure. The iconic old Florida roadside attraction shut its doors after a final weekend of operation from September 27-29, 2024.
Established in 1938 by Harold and Mildred Krantz, the Shell Factory began as a small seashell craft store in Bonita Springs. Over the decades, it evolved into an 18-acre entertainment complex, featuring:
- Amusement-style rides
- Arcade games
- Miniature golf
- 50,000 square feet of gift shops
- A 4.5-acre nature park with over 400 animals
The attraction survived numerous challenges throughout its history, including hurricanes, fires, recessions, and two bankruptcies. In 1997, Tom and Pam Cronin took ownership of the property when it was under foreclosure, transforming it from a simple roadside tourist spot into a sought-after destination for locals and tourists alike.
Despite efforts to find a buyer and preserve the attraction, long-time owner Pam Cronin made the difficult decision to close the Shell Factory and sell the property. Several factors contributed to this decision:
- Costly maintenance and repairs for the 86-year-old property
- Changing tourism trends affecting old Florida roadside attractions
- Financial challenges exacerbated by recent hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic
Virtual Auctions
Following the closure, the Shell Factory & Nature Park is selling off its inventory through two virtual auctions:
- The first auction is currently underway and will conclude on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 7 p.m. This auction focuses on bulk and specialty items from the Shell Factory’s retail store, including:
- Toys
- T-shirts
- Postcards
- Gemstones
- Personalized gifts
- Holiday décor
- A second auction is scheduled for January 2025, with exact dates to be announced. This auction will feature:
- Restaurant equipment
- Furnishings
- Larger fixtures
- Iconic Shell Factory memorabilia, including signage
Interested buyers can participate in the first auction by registering an account at ShellFactoryAuction.com. The items are being sold as-is, and buyers will need to pick up their purchases by appointment.
These auctions provide a final opportunity for fans of the now-closed 86-year-old attraction to own a piece of its history.
The closure affects not only visitors but also the park’s inhabitants and staff:
- Wildlife officials are working with the Shell Factory to safely rehome the more than 400 animals residing in the Nature Park
- Cronin is committed to supporting employees during the transition, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and assistance
The Shell Factory has been an integral part of the Southwest Florida community for nearly nine decades. To celebrate its legacy:
- Visitors are invited to share their favorite memories on the Shell Factory’s Facebook page using the hashtag #MyShellFactoryMemories
- The Shell Factory team remains committed to preserving the rich history of the landmark and exploring ways to honor its impact on the community
As the Shell Factory prepares to sell off its inventory, it leaves behind a lasting legacy of family entertainment, community involvement, and cherished memories for countless visitors who experienced this unique slice of old Florida charm over the past 86 years.
