Take a laidback summer day-cation at The Florida Agriculture Museum in Palm Coast. During a visit to the Agriculture Museum, your family can walk through history as you explore buildings moved to the museum grounds and renovated with grant money from the Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources. There is also a collection of rare Florida Cracker cattle, sheep and horses on the property.
Originally located in Tallahassee, the museum got its start in 1983 when former Agriculture Commissioner Doyle Connor asked a group of agriculture producers and Florida historians to preserve this little-known part of the state’s history. In 1997, the museum moved to its current location on 460 acres in Flagler County.
There are so many things to do and see. Start the day with an outdoor tour of the farm then walk to Hewitt’s Sawmill. It was in operation from 1770 to 1813. Take a driving or walking tour of Princess Place Preserve, named for the princess who once lived in the lodge on Pellicer Creek. At Bings Landing visit the archaeological site of an early cotton plantation and two colonial buildings destroyed in the Second Seminole Indian War. Then launch across the river to the Spanish colonial fort on Rattlesnake Island.
“Our museum celebrates the past, present, and future of agriculture in Florida. Take a tour of our historic buildings which have been relocated to our facility from across the state; enjoy a guided horseback trail ride; learn about our rare heritage Cracker Cattle, Horses and Sheep; rent our 1920’s dairy barn for a wedding or other private event; attend one of our fun and educational events throughout the year. As you can tell, there is something for everyone here,” said Museum Executive Director Kara Hoblick on their website.
“We are creating brand new exhibits for all ages to make history and agricultural education fun! We look forward to seeing you.”
The museum offers guided horseback trail rides, group tours, half day and full day adventures, educational events, camping and equestrian camping. Each Thursday is a farmers market.
The Florida Agriculture Museum is located at 7900 Old Kings Rd., Palm Coast. It’s open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. The first guided tour begins at 10 a.m. Buildings are all wheelchair accessible. Picnic tables are available. Snacks can be purchased at the museum store. Adult admission is $9, children 6-12 $7, 5 and under is free. Family memberships (up to five people) are $30. Horseback riding is available for ages 8 and up. Trail rides are $50 per hour. Lessons are $40 and up per hour.
The Florida Agriculture Museum is a non-profit organization. Visit floridaagmuseum.org or call 386-446-7630 for more information and group reservations. Call Cheryl Carl, barn manager at 386-365-6000 for horseback riding.