About half an hour outside Orlando, you can find a free attraction that’s fun for both kids and adults. Fort Christmas Historical Park is a combination pioneer village, family park, and history museum. It’s less than 20 miles from Kennedy Space Center.
The park offers visitors a glimpse into the past. It features a replica of the original 1830s fort. You can wander through historic buildings, such as pioneer homes and an old schoolhouse, to get a sense of what life was like back then.
My friend and I recently visited Fort Christmas Historical Park after hiking at the nearby Orlando Wetlands. We spent a sunny Saturday afternoon touring the historic buildings and exploring the grounds. Although there’s a lot to see, the park isn’t massive, so you can see it in a few hours.
Here’s what you need to know about visiting Fort Christmas Historical Park.
Where is Fort Christmas Historical Park located?
Fort Christmas Historical Park is located at 1300 Fort Christmas Road, Christmas, FL 32709. Christmas is a small town situated between Orlando and the Space Coast.
What is there to do at Fort Christmas Historical Park?
The park’s main attraction is the replica of Fort Christmas. The original fort began construction on Christmas in 1837, during the Second Seminole Indian War. The fort stood about a mile away and served as a supply center for the war effort.
Inside the replica, you’ll find some interesting exhibits. (And thankfully, it’s air-conditioned.) The displays feature artifacts from the Second Seminole Indian War, the Seminole Indians, and the Fort Christmas settlers. There’s a lot to look at.
Elsewhere on the park grounds, you’ll find a little schoolhouse. It consists of a larger main room with a stage, and a smaller classroom added on in the 1920s. The school stayed open until the 1960s.
Another building on the property is the lunchroom. It now houses a collection of antique stoves and cooking tools.
Fort Christmas Historical Park also has several restored “cracker” homes furnished in period styles. “Cracker” is the term for early Florida pioneers. It’s remarkable that their small wooden homes have survived decades of Florida heat and hurricanes.
Each home has its own story. There’s a one-room house where a family of 10 lived, and a house owned by two farmers who were siblings and never married (like the Cuthberts in Anne of Green Gables). Checking out the homes makes you appreciate how tough Florida settlers were.
The park has three picnic pavilions and a playground, so it’s a great spot for family events. If you’re into sports, there’s a basketball court, tennis court, and baseball field. And there’s a chicken coop, so you might encounter some chickens wandering around the property.
If you want more info before you visit, you can take a virtual tour of the park and its buildings.
How much does it cost to visit Fort Christmas Historical Park?
Fort Christmas Historical Park is free to visit.
What are the park hours?
The park hours vary depending on the season:
- Summer – 8am-8pm
- Winter – 8am-6pm
The historic buildings are open from 9am-4pm daily (closed December 24-25).
Is Fort Christmas Historical Park appropriate for kids?
Yes, Fort Christmas Historical Park is a great place to visit if you have kids. Along with the playground, there’s plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. The exhibits and historic buildings give the park a Frontierland kind of feel.
When my friend and I visited, we noticed several families enjoying the park. It’s also a popular destination for school field trips.
TIP: If you’re visiting the park with children, bring snacks, water, and any supplies they’ll need. The park is in a rural area, so it’s a longer drive to the nearest grocery store.
Does Fort Christmas Historical Park have special events?
Yes. The park’s biggest event is its annual Cracker Christmas, held on the first weekend in December. This event features historical demonstrations (such as wood carving and blacksmithing), food, and a craft fair.
In February, the park hosts the Florida Living History Festival. During this 3-day festival, students can learn about the 1400s-1800s.
On the third Saturday of each month, the park offers a different special program related to pioneer life.
What else is there to do nearby?
Fort Christmas Historical Park is just a few minutes from the Orlando Wetlands. This free park has about 18 miles of trails and a wealth of wildlife. It’s easy to visit both parks in one day. (25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, FL 32709)
With over 60 miles of trails, the Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area offers plenty of opportunities to hike and spot some animals. There is a small fee to visit this park. (3365 Taylor Creek Road, Christmas, FL 32709)
The town of Christmas is also home to Jungle Adventures. At this animal park, you can see exotic wildlife, ride a pontoon boat through the swamp, and explore a Native American/pioneer village. The park has been around for over 50 years and is open 365 days a year. (26205 E. Colonial Drive, Christmas, FL 32709)
For a classic Florida experience, consider taking an airboat ride. You get the chance to see local wildlife up close and admire Florida’s natural beauty. Several airboat ride companies launch from Christmas, so you have plenty of options.
Conclusion: Step Back in Time at Fort Christmas Historical Park
Fort Christmas Historical Park offers a unique educational experience. This park allows you to step into the past and immerse yourself in pioneer life. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for a free adventure, Fort Christmas Historical Park should be on your list of places to see in Central Florida.