Last Updated on February 8, 2024
If you’re visiting Bradenton, no trip is complete without a stop at the family-owned Mixon Fruit Farms, which has been growing delicious citrus since 1939 (almost 85 years)!
While many may know Mixon’s for their famous citrus and delicious orange-swirl ice cream, many memories have been made here, and there still are fun things to do on the farm.
The End of an Era
Sadly, but understandably, the owners (now in their 70s) have decided to close their family farm on July 29, 2023, due to a shortage of helpers and several other factors.
Don’t miss their final concert on July 8, 2023, featuring YouTuber Jack Hartmann.
There is no time like the present to visit “Florida’s Sweetest Attraction.”
If you are a developer, the entire 39-acre property is for sale. It’s listed with Coldwell Banker Realty.
Things to Do at Mixon Fruit Farms
Check out our top 5 things to do at Mixon Fruit Farms for an unforgettable visit. Make sure you bring your smartphone or camera. There are lots of great photo ops!
1. Take a Ride on the Orange Blossom Express
What makes Mixon Farms unique is its on-site tram tour, which lets you see the groves and learn educational tidbits about the citrus industry.
Not only will you see the citrus groves up close, but the tram tour also passes by Mixon’s Magical Maze and Butterfly Garden as well as their wedding pavilion, gazebo, and koi pond.
They even make a stop at the Wildlife Rescue Center, where visitors can walk around exploring the sites.
Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 3 -12, and children under 2 are free!
A portion of each ticket sale is donated to Wild World Rescue Sanctuary, Inc.
2. Learn About Florida Wildlife at the Wildlife Rescue Center
After you ride on the Orange Blossom Express, make sure to take in everything the Wildlife Rescue Center has to offer.
The owners of Mixon Fruit Farms, Dean and Janet Mixon, share a part of their groves with Wildlife Inc., which rehabilitates and cares for injured Florida animals.
While their mission is to release injured birds, animals, and reptiles back into the wild, they also want to educate guests about these magnificent animals.
You’ll be able to see animals in the process of rehabilitation and animals that call the Wildlife Rescue their permanent home.
3. Explore the Garden Oasis
Before or after your tram tour, visit the Garden Oasis for a relaxing stroll through nature.
Take one of the scenic pathways through the gardens, and observe the beautiful sites like the Rock Waterfall, Gazebo, Butterfly Garden, and Koi Pond.
If you want to feed the koi, stop by the gift shop to pick up fish food.
4. Grab a Bite at the Groveside Cafe
After you’ve worked up an appetite following your sightseeing adventure, stop by the Groveside Cafe for a wide selection of tasty treats.
Choose from a variety of sandwiches (they have a great Cuban). They also have Barbecue, a Deli and awesome Greek and Oriental Citrus Splash salads.
If you happen to stop by for breakfast, you can choose from multiple fresh baked goods or biscuits and gravy.
Of course, try Mixon’s famous Orange Swirl homemade ice cream made fresh with their orange juice. One of our Facebook followers said they also have the best chocolate ice cream in Florida.
Check out the menu on the Mixon Website.
5. Take Home Memories and Tasty Citrus at the Gift Shoppe
Mixon’s Gift Shoppe is a must-see with endless citrus, treats, and goodies to take home for yourself or give as gifts! Fresh juice is available year-round.
Purchase fun collectibles, Florida souvenirs, homemade jellies, marmalades, dips, salsas, dressings, teas, honey, and more in their 14,000-square-foot shop.
They also sell fantastic butter, cheese, and milk. On top of that, Mixon’s makes their own Florida wines made with Mixon Oranges and Muscadine Grapes.
You can buy a bottle to take home or try a complimentary sample of one of their 17 different Wines in the Gift Shoppe. TIP: Buy a $5 glass of wine and take it with you on the tram ride!
If wine isn’t your thing, Mixon’s also makes delicious fudge onsite daily — stop by the Homemade Fudge Counter to try some.
And, of course, when it’s in season, take home fresh Florida oranges, tangerines, and grapefruit.
Store & Deli: Tuesday-Saturday 10 am – 3 pm Tram Tours: Thursday-Saturday 11 am & 1 pm Play Place: Saturday 10 am – 3 pm
Mixon Fruit Farms Address: 2525 27th St E, Bradenton, FL 34208
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No address given for the Mixon Farm. Would like to visit.
Here’s the address: 2525 27th St E, Bradenton, FL 34208. It’s a great place.