Bongoland Ruins — Attraction in Port Orange

Was digging around Google looking for off beat type things to check out and stubbled across this hidden gem! I knew on my way there it was an old sugar mill and the Bongoland brief story, but guess I overlooked it was a botanical garden as well. Glad I did guess it was a great surprise! Wonderful mix of local plants and some not local. Get a picture of the area map at the entrance to help you through the trails and be sure you see all the little markers. I would have loved to see what Bongoland would have become, if it had become popular, but it was a cool look in the past... In more than one way. I made it through most of it in about an hour. It was getting hot, so I rushed to the end, but it is mostly shaded, so it isn't always direct sunlight. If we come back to the area, I will definitely be back just to walk the...

There is a parking lot across the road from the entrance gate. Tickets are not required as there is a red donation box just inside the gate. There are restrooms along the path to the left after the entrance gate. We took the perimeter path first which goes around the property, but there are several paths that veer off. Paths are gravel but very easy walking under gorgeous live oaks and among gardens and Florida jungle greenery. There are benches scattered around for a quiet break. Several paths lead to places of interest; the historical sugar mill ruins, a tiny gnome village, several dinosaur statues left from Bongoland, walking bridges over small ponds with whimsical ornaments and many flowers and plants. We spent a leisurely 2.5 hours enjoying the...

Bongoland is a very cool place. It is a 3-in-1 attraction.

First is Bongoland itself. Spread throughout the park, there are concrete dinosaurs placed. They were created in the 1940s, and are in pretty good shape for their age.

Second is the old sugar mill. I have visited quite a few old sugar mills in Florida, and this one is in the best shape so far.

Last is the gardens. Bongoland and the sugar mill are surrounded by gardens. They are kept in the same groupings with descriptions letting you know the group and the names of the plants. All of this is in a natural Florida setting with trees and natural Florida plants.

There are no roller coasters or rides, thank goodness. Only beauty within natural Florida and the...