If you are interested in Florida history and enjoy stepping back in time then a trip to the Florida Agricultural Museum in northern Flagler County is the adventure you are looking for. Just an hour drive from both Orlando and Jacksonville this unique destination is good wholesome family fun and very educational.
The museum offers a glimpse into real Florida life from the 1800s. Set on a 460-acre preserve the living history exhibit includes a 5-building citrus complex, a 5,000-square-foot dairy barn, an 1880s farmstead with all of its out-buildings, a turn-of-the-century country store, the archaeological remains of a British colonial period sawmill, and an exhibit that tells the story of Africans and African Americans in Florida’s cattle industry.
Plan a picnic for lunch and give yourself plenty of time to explore the farm. Tour the planation with a colorful guide on a wagon ride. You will hear stories of the pioneer lifestyle and learn how sugar cane becomes molasses. Sally, the friendly farm dog may greet you. Watch the rare heritage horses and cattle graze or a frisky pig take a mud bath. Meet the friendly farm animals up close and visit the chickens, ducks and Murphy, a sweet donkey.
Kids and adults will enjoy the display of a turn of the century store. The 1890’s store is stocked with canned goods, tools, furniture, lamps and other items needed for daily life. The commissary was the place to meet neighbors and exchange news and gossip. Pull up a chair and sit down to a game of checkers, a favorite pastime from a simpler era. When it’s time to go, visitors can pick up a bar of homemade soap for a souvenir.
For additional fees guided horseback rides are offered as well on the beautiful wooded trails. Riders of all skill levels are welcome.
Admission is $9 for Adults, $7 Children 6-12 years old and Children 5 years old or younger are free. The museum is open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Wednesdays through Saturdays, and is located at 7900 Old Kings Road in Palm Coast, about a mile south of I-95 on US-1 in Flagler County.