Marco Island has long been an important trading and transportation hub – a gateway to the ten thousand islands of Southwest Florida. With its sheltered waters and an abundant array of aquatic life, Marco Island was an important meeting place for the Calusa, Zorro, and Seminole Native Americans. Thanks to its strategic location, Marco Island has been the site of military activities, commerce, and industry, influenced by the many settlers who called the island home from the 1800s through to the present day. For locals and visitors alike, the Marco Island Historical Museum offers a unique way to experience the island’s past. The museum houses various artifacts, documents, and photographs, which allow visitors to gain a better insight into the history of Marco Island. From boatbuilding and fishing to pineapple farming and tourism, the museum's collections bring the island’s story to life. Read about Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve in Copeland, Florida – A Fantastic Tourist Spot here.