Koreshan State Park

Dating to 1896, this building is referred to as the Founders Hall. It is the oldest surviving structure at the settlement. Koreshan members who joined the religious order and lived within the confines of the Settlement were required to be celibate, give their property to the Unity and work for the building of the New Jerusalem. Equity among the sexes was ordained and everyone had a job and place in life.

Interesting history here at Koreshan State Park. Dr Cyrus Teed, who changed his name to Koresh brought his followers from
Chicago to this property in Estero, Florida in 1894. Originally trained as a medical doctor, Dr Teed became disillusioned with the inhumanity of medicine during the Civil War. He became ‘illuminated’ working in his laboratory in 1869 and founded a communal society based on his ideas of communal living, communal property, and his religious and scientific theories. With everyone working for the good of all. This original building, dating to 1904, is called Planetary Court. It housed the governing council of Koreshan. The council was made up of 7 women each of whom had their own room within this building. They were responsible for the day to day running of the Settlement.

Koreshan was to be a planned community with an anticipated population of 10 million! The city would embrace formal gardens laid out in geometric patterns. This bridge, reconstructed in 2004 by volunteers, is part of the formal gardens. The community came to an end in 1961 when the last four members gave the property to the State of Florida for a Park.

Another dramatic Florida sunset. #bvsblue

Visit Koreshan State Park

Activities

Estero Travel Guide

Browse tours and tickets to explore Koreshan State Park

Tours & day trips

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Sunset Dolphin Cruise with Sanibel Lighthouse Views

Free cancellation available

Water activities

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Guided Island EcoTour: CLEAR/Standard Kayak, SUP - Bonita Springs

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

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Fort Myers Beach Dolphin & Sightseeing Tour Refreshments Included

Free cancellation available

Wildlife & nature

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Fort Myers: Guided Standup Paddleboarding or Kayaking Tour

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Hertz Arena

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Palm trees may be swaying in the breeze, but inside people are gliding on ice. Select an activity from a roster of things to do at this popular venue.

Bonita Beach Dog Park

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If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Bonita Beach Dog Park might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Bonita Springs. Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

A brown pelican immediately before it landing, its legs hang down, and its wings above its head

Pelican Landing Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Pelican Landing Beach during your trip to Bonita Springs? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in the area.

K-9 Corral

K-9 Corral is just one of the places to see in Estero, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Coconut Point Mall

4.5/5(439 reviews)

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Coconut Point Mall during your stay in Estero. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Raptor Bay Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Bonita Springs at Raptor Bay Golf Club. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Best Lodging Options Near Koreshan State Park

Check availability on hotels close to Koreshan State Park

Hyatt Vacation Club at Coconut Cove, Bonita Springs

11800 Coconut Cove Drive Bonita Springs FL

Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Estero

10450 Corkscrew Commons Dr Estero FL

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Myers Estero

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TownePlace Suites by Marriott Fort Myers Estero

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Spacious 4-bedroom house in marvelous Fort Myers close to the beach/airport

Fort Myers FL

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa

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Pyramid Getaway in Southwest Florida

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Family Home w/Pool , On Golf Course & Near Beach !

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4737 Jackfish St - 4 Bedroom w Den

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See all 9,492 properties in Koreshan State Park

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.