Pioneer Settlement nonprofit historical village museum makes a memorable outing for the whole family. Most buildings are ADA accessible. There are farm animals, historical settlement buildings, including a train depot and caboose, a picnic area, a church, a post office, a general store, (just to name a few), plus lots of room for the little ones to run around with the resident cats.
Parking at Pioneer Settlement
When it's not an event day, you can drive through the entrance past the check-in building and park on either side. On event days, the parking spills out into the grassy area outside the entrance.
Best and Worst Times to go to Pioneer Settlement
The best and worst time to go depends on your preference. If you would like to use your visit to score some quiet downtime (while much of the settlement is also inactive), a weekday visit will grant your wish. If you want to see the settlement in action, go during one of the many special events to see artisans at work throughout the grounds. Special events will also feature tour guides, live music, food for purchase and a festive environment.
Admission to Pioneer Settlement
General admission for self-guided tours for adults is $6-$8, admission for children 6-12 is $4-$6. Free admission for children under 5 and current Settlement members. Guided tours require reservations and a minimum of $40.00. Guided tour admission ranges $8-$10 per Adult, $5-$7 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Regular hours (excluding special events) are Monday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on Sundays and Holidays.
Must See/Do at Pioneer Settlement
Visit the farm animals. The peacocks are more than happy to strut their stuff for you. The goats frequently come to the fence for scratches on the head. The geese may invite you over but your hospitality may be rewarded with a nip. Cool off with a tour of the schoolhouse museum or shop at the country store. They will open the store upon request. Take home a souvenir and enjoy unique treats from back in the day. Sing a hymn or two in the country church where the acoustics will make even bad singers sound fantastic.
Other Places to Visit near Pioneer Settlement
It's only about a half hour drive to visit beautiful Ormond Beach, where you can relax on the sand or enjoy dining at places like Takeya Japanese Steak House.
Insider tip for visitors to Pioneer Settlement
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and plan to get them dirty. The facilities can be rented for your special event. If you can only go to one even, Florida Christmas Remembered is a must.
Author's bio: Edie Schmidt is an internationally published freelance writer in Central Florida. When she took her young son to an event at Pioneer Settlement, he said it was "better than Disney World!" See Edie's other interests here and here.