Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens

A sugar cane plantation rich with Spanish history, tales of murder, war, and intrigue await on your Daytona Beach getaway. Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is a living museum where the lush Florida foliage intertwines with the remnants of a 19th-century sugar mill. 

The gardens offer a unique glimpse into Florida's rich history while providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Originally built in the early 1800s, the Dunlawton Sugar Mill played a pivotal role in the area's development and was a key player in Florida's sugar industry. 

Like many endeavors of the time, it was not immune to the challenges of war and economic fluctuations. After surviving the Seminole Wars and changing hands through various industries and ventures, the property was transformed into the enchanting gardens visitors see today.

Walking through Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, guests are greeted by ancient oaks that tell a tale as old as the mill. Amidst the natural beauty, the sugar mill ruins are a reminder of the area's history, offering visitors a tangible link to the past.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

More of an eerie fact than a fun fact is that the original owner, Patrick Dean, was killed on the property in 1818 by either a renegade Indian or a slave. 

The Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens connection to combat is rich with content. The mill was burned down during the Second Seminole War, 1835-1842. During the Civil War, it was a camp headquarters for the St. John Rangers in 1862. 

An enchanting aspect of Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is its run as an amusement park in the 50s known as Bongoland. During this phase, the gardens had dinosaur sculptures, a miniature train, an Indian village, and a Bongo the monkey. All are gone except for the stone dinosaurs.

Additionally, the gardens host an ancient Oak Tree, said to be hundreds of years old, standing as a magnificent testament to the resilience and beauty of nature. With its sprawling branches and lush canopy, this majestic tree provides a serene spot for contemplation and relaxation.

Visiting Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is a must for anyone vacationing in Daytona Beach. It offers a unique blend of history, nature, and art that captures the essence of Florida's diverse heritage. 

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from Daytona Beach to Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens:

• Begin on International Speedway Blvd (US-92), heading east towards the beach.
• Turn left (north) onto S Nova Rd and continue for approximately 5.6 miles.
• Make a right turn onto Herbert St and proceed for about 1.2 miles.
• Turn left onto S Ridgewood Ave (US-1) and follow for 2.3 miles.
• Finally, turn right onto Dunlawton Ave; continue straight, and you will see Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens on your right.
• Address: 950 Old Sugar Mill Rd, Port Orange, FL 32129

Cost

Visiting Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is free. However, donations are appreciated, and special events may incur a fee.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.