Places like these are the one of the main reasons why we love visiting historic sites! There’s something so fascinating about sugar mill ruins and the feeling of going back in time—like flipping a switch in your brain that instantly takes you to another dimension.
Learning about how our world has evolved and the bits and pieces of what used to be, is truly an incredible experience.
There are an incredbile amount of amazing historic sites in Florida. And let me tell you, these aren’t the exception!
The unique Sugar Mill Ruins of Florida’s Historic Coast can be found from Ponte Vedra Beach to Flagler Beach, along the Scenic and Historic A1A Coastal Byway.
Remnants of these nineteenth-century plantations of sugarcane plantations line up to allow you to step back in time and explore an important chapter in Florida’s history.
A Look Into a Sweet Historic Adventure
I personally find it so fascinating to stand amidst the ruins of what once was a thriving sugar mill or any ruins for that matter.
Visiting these historic sites, you can almost hear the echoes of the past: machinery clanking, workers bustling, and the sweet scent of sugar cane in the air.
Therefore, these are tangible connections to Florida’s agricultural heritage and dynamics of the antebellum South.
Travel Tip: Visting these historic plantation sites is completely free and they are all family and kid-approved!
I fell in love with the coquina structures, the history behind them, and the complete beauty of the site. This one, in particular, has a nature trail that loops back to the plantation.
The Bulow Sugar Mill Plantation is the one that might take the most time to explore. Mostly because it’s the biggest, and it’s also a State Park. I’m sure you’ll find plenty of activities to do while you’re there.
You’ll also need some extra time at the Dunlawton Plantation.
It’s surrounded by a beautiful botanical garden perfect for meditation, and it’s also the site for Bongoland; an abandoned Dinosaur Park.
Dummit Plantation won’t require much time to explore since it’s the smallest one of them all.
Sugar, Spice, and Everything Historic: 4 Must-See Mill Ruins
Here, I’m sharing the main sugar mill ruins along Florida’s Historic Coast. Each of these offers something different and unique about the history of the region and about the sugar industry that once thrived here. If you’re up for it, you can visit all of these ruins on a day trip.
You can also plan a weekend trip and extend your visit around the area which has so much more to see like the historic arches on Ormond Beach.
1. New Smyrna Ruins
On the National Register of Historic Places, the New Smyrna Sugar Mill ruins remain as the remnants of a steam-powered sugar cane mill dating back to the 1830s.
Impressive coquina structures withstood time at this site and they are such a treat to see! This site also has a nice nature trail looping around what was once the plantation grounds.
What Makes Them Special?
- Scenic nature trail
- Well-preserved coquina buildings
- Informative placards detailing the site's history
2. The Dummit Plantation
The Dummit ruins are located just outside of Ormond Beach, near Tomoka State Park. Built in 1825, this site was a sugar and rum processing factory.
Owned by Thomas H. Dummit, these ruins present a more intimate look at one of the smaller-scale operations of the era.
What Makes Them Special?
- Small site, ideal for a quick historical stop
- Proximity to Tomoka State Park for added outdoor activities.
3. Bulow Sugar Mill Plantation Ruins
These ruins are the main attraction of the Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park, also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
An interesting fact is that these are the ruins of what had been Florida’s largest sugar mill. Going since 1820, this plantation had a very dramatic closure when, in 1836, the Seminole Indians burned it to ashes during the Second Seminole War.
What Makes Them Special?
- Largest sugar mill ruins in Florida
- Hiking trails, interpretive displays
- Picnicking and wildlife viewing opportunities
4. Dunlawton Sugar Factory
The history of this sugar mill factory dates back to before Florida was even a state! Granted to Patrick Dean in 1804, the Dunlawton Plantation was the site of sugar, cotton, and rice production.
Today, it is a very unusual combination of history and nature, wrapped by one of the most beautiful botanical gardens around.
In addition, this is where you’ll also find the remnants of Bongoland—Florida’s abandoned dinosour park and a hidden gem!
What Makes Them Special?
- Scenic botanical gardens ideal for meditation and relaxation.
- Home to the extinct "Bongoland" dinosaur park.
- Informative plaques that give an explanation of the history of the plantations and the producing of sugar.
Tips For Planning Your Visit
When exploring these sugar mill ruins, please keep the following tips in mind and remember to leave no trace.
- Allow enough time: While some sites can be explored quickly, others (like Bulow Plantation) may require more time to fully appreciate.
- Bring mosquito repellent: Florida’s warm climate can attract insects, especially in wooded areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
- Carry water: Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
- Respect the sites: These are protected historical landmarks. Do not climb on or remove any artifacts.
Final Thoughts
The sugar mill ruins of Florida’s Historic Coast offer a fascinating journey through time and allow you to connect with this fascinating agricultural history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for an out of the ordinaty day trip, these sites are definitely worth the visit!
I hope you get to visit these amazing historic plantations and plan your family day trip so you can enjoy them without being in a hurry.