When it comes to discovering the history of Florida, most people think of the abundance of beaches, theme parks, and nightlife. However, Florida is also home to several ghost towns filled with mystery and intrigue.
Ghost towns are abandoned communities that once thrived with life, but, for various reasons, residents abandoned them. From Oslo in Indian River County to Ellaville in Madison County, plenty of ghost towns are scattered throughout Florida. So, grab your ghost-hunting gear, and let’s check out the top six ghost towns in Florida that will give you a hauntingly good time.
GHOST & ABANDONED TOWNS IN FLORIDA TO VISIT
1. Oslo, Indian River County
The Oslo ghost town was once a thriving farming community in the early 1900s, but shortly after World War 1, the Great Depression began picking apart the town as businesses, one by one, began to fall.
The last remaining business still in operation is Olso Citrus Growers Association; according to an article by Timeout, Olso Citrus Growers is “the oldest packing house on Florida’s east coast.”
2. Fort Dade, Egmont Key State Park
Fort Dade was built in 1898 as a defense fort during the Spanish-American War but was later abandoned and turned into a ghost town. Today,
Fort Dade is part of the Egmont Key State Park and is easily accessible by ferry for a day of exploring the old fort’s eerie artifacts and dark tunnels. Visitors can also take in the sun and beach activities or explore other historical landmarks on the island.
3. Okeelanta, Palm Beach County
Founded in 1913 with the ambitious goal of transforming the notoriously untamed Everglades into arable land for farming, Okeelanta was born. Despite initial setbacks with the wetlands, the first inhabitants of Okeelanta eventually prospered by growing a diverse range of crops, such as sugar cane.
However, the small population of 200 constantly struggled with natural disasters, including floods and freezes, leading many to leave the area. Unfortunately, Okeelanta met its end in 1928 during a devastating hurricane that destroyed the town entirely.
Today, Okeelanta stands as one of the many abandoned cities in Florida, a testament to the challenges faced by early settlers in the state.
4. Ellaville, Madison County
Ellaville, once a prosperous boomtown in the 1800s, attracted many people searching for stable careers in logging, sawmills, and railroad car building. At its peak, approximately 1,000 people called Ellaville home.
However, the town’s reputation took a hit in 1895 after two men were lynched, making it unsafe for residents and visitors alike. Today, Ellaville stands as a stark reminder of Florida’s past, with the ruins of the governor’s mansion, sawmill, and post office still visible.
5. Zion, Palm Beach County
Zion, a former coastal community in Florida, has a fascinating history. One of its most significant claims to fame is that it was the site of Orange Grove House of Refuge #3, one of Florida’s Houses of Refuge. These houses of refuge were established in the late 19th century to help sailors whose ships had been wrecked along Florida’s barren eastern coast.
The Zion house was in operation for two decades before being destroyed in a fire. While now a ghost town in Florida, Zion’s past may uniquely linger. It’s said to have the potential for actual ghost sightings, making it one of the few ghost towns in Florida with this eerie possibility.
6. Kerr City, Central FL
Kerr City, one of the ghost towns in central Florida, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1884 as a stagecoach stop for travelers. This quaint town flourished with a population of 100 people, boasting a hotel, general store, drugstore, school, church, and post office.
Unfortunately, the harsh weather of the Great Freeze in the late 1800s forced many residents to abandon their homes. Then, the once-bustling hotel burned down in 1907. Despite its dwindling status, the post office continued to operate until 1941 and remains standing today.
This town’s historic charm is still maintained through the many renovated homes now on the National Register of Historic Places. Even though Kerr City is fenced off and access to the public is prohibited, its legacy continues to be appreciated by many who value the rich history of Florida’s ghost towns.
From Zion in Palm Beach County to Fort Dade, Egmont Key State Park, Florida ghost towns are captivating slices of history to explore. Take a step back in time with one of these abandoned ghost towns in Florida that have been left behind and remember the stories each one has to tell.
Of course, no matter which you decide to visit, you’ll take away memories and true insight into Florida’s often-overlooked past. Experiencing life off the beaten path can be both magical and meaningful. So, pack your bags, gather supplies, and head off to discover the hidden treasures that wait within some of Florida’s most charming ghost towns!
If you need help finding the best homeowners insurance coverage for the best price — ghost town or not, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get a homeowners insurance quote online now.
