Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Step back in time at Dudley Farm, a living history museum showcasing Florida pioneer farm life from the 1850s-1940s with heritage animals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Dudley Farm, a living history museum showcasing Florida pioneer farm life from the 1850s-1940s with heritage animals.
"A gorgeous place to visit with friendly staff and plenty of history, perfect for all ages!"
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Only $5 per car! A fantastic value for a full day of historical exploration.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash, making it a great outing for the whole family.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Farmhouse
Main Farmstead
Explore the beautifully restored farmhouse, filled with original furnishings, offering a glimpse into pioneer life.
Heritage Livestock
Animal Pens and Pastures
See heritage breeds of horses, cows, turkeys, and chickens roaming the grounds.
General Store & Post Office
Near Visitor Center
Step back in time at the old general store and post office, complete with period items and regional preserves.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Visit Around Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Only $5 per car! A fantastic value for a full day of historical exploration.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash, making it a great outing for the whole family.
☀️ Beat the Florida Sun
Plenty of shade trees available, but bring water and hats for comfort.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Abundant opportunities for beautiful photos of the farm, animals, and historic buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Only $5 per car! A fantastic value for a full day of historical exploration.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash, making it a great outing for the whole family.
☀️ Beat the Florida Sun
Plenty of shade trees available, but bring water and hats for comfort.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Abundant opportunities for beautiful photos of the farm, animals, and historic buildings.
🚶♀️ Accessible Trails
Trails are well-maintained and accessible, with a sand-capable wheelchair available for use.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Dudley Farm's authentic historical experience and affordability, praising the friendly and knowledgeable staff. The well-maintained grounds, heritage animals, and accessible facilities make it a delightful outing for all ages. Some note that hours can be limited, and visiting during cooler months is recommended to fully enjoy the Florida climate.
"What a gorgeous place to visit! There's plenty of shade, so even though it's hot, the shade trees break the heat. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable! The trails are well done and would be easily accessible with a sand-capabke wheel chair, which I saw was available for use there. (Amazing!)
Beautiful photo -ops! Perfect for all ages, and, the bathrooms were clean, Y'all!"
Cathy Fain
"If you like the history of North Florida and the Gainesville area this is a great place to go, much more than a museum. It’s a working Farmstead with live animals, and a great deal of effort has gone into preserve the buildings and tell the story of the Dudley’s. The small visitor center is air-conditioned handicap accessible, and has a short video that provides a great deal of understanding about the place. There’s a small gift shop that does sell drinks and regionally made preserves and strawberries and other items kind of like an old-time General Store. The volunteers dress up in . attire and are happy to tell you anything about the Dudley’s and the farm. From the visitor area it’s a very short walk to the actual farm. There are number of public events and if you go on the website and check, you will find out when they are scheduled. One of the most popular is the sugarcane event in the fall. There was nothing special happening when we went, but there were volunteers, taking care of the farm because chores have to be done year-round and unlike many museums most of the items you see in the buildings are all from the original Dudley family and The Farm operation. It’s easy to spend one to two hours. They also have a nice walking trail away from the farm. That’s easy to navigate."
Ross Ambrose
"Flying down the highway I see a brown sign State Park I pull over
What an incredible historical property. Preserved in its natural state. Lots of history dating back to the mid-1800s to 1996 when the final daughter passed away at 94 years old. The Dudley Family Farm was passed from generation to generation. And the plantation enslaved 30 people . They Drew Cotton, raise cattle, corn, grain. Mr Dudley had eight daughters and four boys. Everything is left in the natural state. The property was originally 900 Acres but it was traded off and is now a little over 300 Acres. Beautiful well-maintained property live roosters and turkeys. And a couple of beautiful gardens. A really nice experience and a lot of history packed into one visit."
Michele Gentile
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dudley Farm is located in Newberry, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. The park is approximately 15 miles from Gainesville.
Yes, look for the brown state park signs along the highway. It's a straightforward drive to reach the historic site.
While specific directions depend on your starting point, it's generally located off State Road 26 in the Newberry area. Using a GPS or map app is recommended.
Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. Driving is the most convenient way to access Dudley Farm Historic State Park.
The park is designed for self-guided tours. A visitor center provides maps and information to help you explore the farmstead and surrounding trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is incredibly affordable at just $5 per car, making it a budget-friendly outing for families and individuals.
No advance booking is typically required for general admission. You can pay the $5 fee upon arrival.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Dudley Farm Historic State Park website before your visit. Hours are often limited.
The already low $5 per car fee is a significant discount. Special event pricing may apply during public events.
Yes, the park offers accessible trails and even a sand-capable wheelchair for visitor use, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore a working pioneer farm with historic buildings, heritage livestock, gardens, and walking trails. Learn about Florida farm life from the 1850s to the 1940s.
Yes, you can see heritage breeds of horses, cows, turkeys, and chickens.
Absolutely! Kids can enjoy seeing the animals, exploring the historic buildings, and running in the open spaces. It's an educational and fun experience.
Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friend.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the farmstead and walking trails. You can easily spend longer if you attend a special event.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Dudley Farm offers numerous beautiful photo opportunities with its historic buildings, animals, and natural landscapes.
It's ideal for historical reenactment photography, landscape shots, and capturing images of heritage livestock. Film photography also works well here.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the park management beforehand.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Check park regulations for specifics.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2The park's affordability at just $5 per car makes it an accessible option for families. The accessible trails and available wheelchair ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience. Consider visiting during a special event for even more engaging historical demonstrations.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings, further saving on dining costs. The self-guided nature of the tour means you control your pace and expenses. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in Florida's history without breaking the bank.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to bring water for your pet, especially during warmer months, and be mindful of other visitors. The open spaces and walking trails provide ample room for your dog to stretch its legs and enjoy the fresh air.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Working Pioneer Farm
The farm is home to heritage breeds of livestock, including horses, cows, turkeys, and chickens, which are cared for year-round. Visitors can observe the daily chores and learn about the agricultural practices that sustained families in North Florida for generations. The site also features beautiful gardens and walking trails, providing a serene natural escape.
This commitment to authenticity makes Dudley Farm a valuable educational resource. It provides a tangible connection to Florida's agricultural history, allowing visitors to understand the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life. The park's dedication to preserving its historical integrity ensures that future generations can learn from this unique living museum.
Exploring the Historic Buildings
Beyond the farmhouse, the park features other essential structures that tell the story of a self-sufficient farmstead. These include the old general store, which once served as a hub for the community and now sells regional preserves and drinks, and the post office, a reminder of the farm's connection to the outside world. The presence of these buildings, many of which are original to the Dudley family, adds a profound layer of historical authenticity to the visitor experience.
Each building at Dudley Farm is more than just a structure; it's a portal to the past. The kitchen, barns, and other outbuildings provide context for the agricultural labor and domestic life that defined this era. The volunteers, often dressed in period attire, are eager to share stories and insights, making the exploration of these buildings an engaging and educational journey.
A Photographer's Paradise
The park's natural beauty also contributes to its photographic appeal. Lush gardens, mature trees providing ample shade, and scenic walking trails create picturesque settings. Whether you're drawn to the details of a vintage tool, the character of an old barn, or the sweeping vistas of the farm, Dudley Farm offers endless possibilities for stunning shots.
For those who appreciate film photography, Dudley Farm provides a nostalgic and inspiring environment. The timeless quality of the farmstead lends itself beautifully to the analog medium, allowing photographers to capture unique and evocative images. The affordable entry fee makes it an accessible location for photographers to hone their skills and create memorable work.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit