Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
Enjoy a tropical getaway in a formal public garden right along SR 40 in Ormond Beach
Admission: Free
The Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens provide a two-fold aesthetic experience. The gardens, established in the 1940s as a war memorial, designed by Chicago landscape architect Henry Stockman, are atop a sand dune. With lush native plantings, winding pathways, a waterfall, and multiple levels with ponds where turtles sun, it’s a visual and aromatic delight. Benches in quiet spots provide places for relaxation and reflection, and there’s a touch of history in one corner—the 1885 Emmons Cottage, which was moved here from Beach St. Built of heart pine, this pioneer structure withstood many a hurricane and the ravages of the salt breeze; it is open Wed–Fri 11–2 and features fine art from local artists. At the other corner of the gardens, the art museum began with the donation of 56 religious paintings by Canadian artist Malcolm Fraser in 1946, which sparked a community-wide effort to fund a museum. Originally called the Ormond War Memorial Art Gallery, it was the first Florida memorial to honor World War II veterans. The museum has expanded from its original space to include a new building with rotating exhibits by regional artists.
Museum open Mon–Fri 10–4, Sat–Sun 12–4, donation
Gardens open sunrise–sunset, free.
Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
78 E Granada Blvd
Ormond Beach, FL
386-676-3347
www.ormondartmuseum.org
