Solomon’s Castle – 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL
Located about one hour from Burnt Store Meadows, Solomon’s Castle is a remarkable and unexpected sight nestled in rural Central Florida.
Artist Howard Solomon built the castle almost entirely by hand, using recycled aluminum to give it a distinctive silvery shine. The structure features quirky towers, whimsical artwork, and a fairytale silhouette, creating an atmosphere that feels delightfully out of place. Solomon’s Castle is considered one of the strangest and most unique architectural landmarks in Florida.
Open October 2 – August 1, Tuesdays through Sundays, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed Mondays and during the months of August & September
Wonder House — 1075 Mann Rd, Bartow, FL
Wonder House Bartow Historic Tours
Wonder House is situated approximately one and a half hours from Burnt Store Meadows in the small town of Bartow.
Recognized as a hidden gem in Florida, Wonder House is a fascinating destination that reopened in 2018 after being closed to the public for several years. It is currently a private residence, but visitors can book tours to explore its unusual and surprising interior. Those seeking an interesting day trip will find Wonder House unforgettable.
Built in 1925 without any blueprints, Wonder House stands out as a unique historical residence. While it appears to be a typical 1920s home from the outside, the interior is filled with slanted floors, tilted rooms, and gravity-defying illusions, giving the house a funhouse-like quality. Once abandoned and nearly lost, it has been restored and now serves as one of Florida’s most unusual buildings, highlighting the state’s quirky architectural history.
For many decades, the Wonder House operated as a tourist attraction with minimal furniture, often just a few rocking chairs on the porch.
The home was made even more distinctive by its owner, Shuck, who collected curiosities. Throughout the house, visitors would encounter snakes preserved in jars, a coffin placed in the center of the parlor, and a taxidermy collection of various Florida birds.
