Ellenton Attractions

Ellenton is perhaps best known for two major attractions: the Gamble Plantation State Historical Site, and the Roaring 20s Pizza and Pipes restaurant.

The Gamble Plantation State Historical Site is located in Ellenton on U.S. 301. It is the only surviving plantation house in South Florida, and the only Confederate memorial in the entire state. Covering over 3500 acres, this sugar plantation was built in the mid-1800s, and features a collection of antebellum furniture and a farmhouse dating back to the 1890s. The Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble Plantation State Historic Site serves as a memorial to a way of life and an economic system that existed before the Civil War.

Roaring 20s Pizza and Pipes brings a different piece of the past to life. More than just a pizzeria, Roaring 20s features a Mighty Wurlitzer organ that was originally used to provide a soundtrack for silent movies back in the 1920s and 30s. The organ was retired in 1932, when its theater closed. It spent several decades in storage until the owners of Roaring 20s installed it in their restaurant. Now visitors can munch on goodies like the Buster Keaton (all-vegetable pizza) or the Theda Bara (sandwich with thinly sliced turkey) while listening to the old-time stylings of the Mighty Wurlitzer.

Ellenton's surrounding areas are home to dozens more attractions. A short trip to Sarasota will bring visitors to the Ringling Museum, the Mote Marine Laboratory, and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Myakka River State Park is a little bit further. Bradenton offers the Bishop Planetarium. And of course, there's golf. More than thirty private and public golf courses are located in Manatee County, with more going up every year.

Gamble Plantation State Historic Site 3708 Patten Avenue Ellenton , Florida 34222 Tel: (941) 723-4536 Map Read Review Site of mid-1800's sugar plantation covering over 3,500 acres. In May, 1865, it is reported that J.P. Benjamin took refuge in the mansion during his escape to England. Today the mansion is furnished in period items to give visitors the feel of frontier living. Tours available: Thursday-Monday @ 9:30, 10:30, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00. Rates: Adults - $3.00/Children (6-12) $1.50

Madira Bickel Mound State Archeological Site 3708 Patten Ave., Ellenton, FL 34222 Tel: 941-723-4536 Read Review

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