Last Updated on November 21, 2022
We’re putting a spotlight on one of our favorite Florida Finds, the town of Pierson, Florida! This quaint little town has earned our official #AuthenticFlorida Stamp of Approval.
Visiting Pierson, Florida
As much as we love homegrown Florida establishments (which we spend the majority of our time highlighting), we also adore places that bring an authentic experience from somewhere else in the world to the #SunshineState. For example, you no longer have to travel up north for authentic New England seafood!
1. Essex Seafood House
Florida seafood is abundant throughout the Sunshine State, but if you’re ever in Pierson, you simply must dine at Essex Seafood House. They have another location in Cape Ann, MA, so you may hear the Florida restaurant referred to as Essex Seafood Two. They serve authentic and delicious New England seafood.
The fried clams and shrimp are incredible. The servings are so large, you can easily share an order. Keep in mind, they are a cash-only restaurant, so plan accordingly. If you go, tell them you heard about them from the team at Authentic Florida.
2. Pierson, Fern Capital of the World
Did you know that Pierson is known as the Fern Capital of the World? There isn’t a lot of up-to-date information, but twenty years ago, Pierson County Extension Director told the Sun-Sentinel that 85% of ferns sold in the US are grown in Pierson!
One family-owned fernery in Pierson Florida is Rusty Harper Ferneries! Rusty Harper’s great-great-grandfather, Frank Harper, planted fern plants in Pierson in 1919! After Frank, his son George L. Harper and grandson George R. Harper took over the farm before Rusty Harper in 1985. In fact, Rusty Harper still grows several varieties of ferns on the property originally farmed by his great-grandfather!
3. Barberville Yard Art Emporium
Located just outside of Pierson is the Barberville Yard Art Emporium, a slice of heaven for Florida-kitsch lovers! This attraction is best enjoyed in person since the handmade yard art is mainly custom-painted on-site!
Some of the art you can see (and purchase) in Barberville include:
- Recycled cast aluminum statuary
- Life-size animals
- Lampposts
- Fountains
- Patio Furniture
- Mailboxes
- Windmills
- Planters
- Rustic teak wood furniture
- Handmade one-of-a-kind Talavera Mexican Pottery
- Local Chainsaw Art
- Haitian reclaimed oil drum figurines
- Souvenirs
Not too far from Pierson …
DeLeon Springs: Make Your Own Pancakes in De Leon Springs
Daytona Beach: A Visit to Daytona Beach: “The World’s Most Famous Beach”
Ponce Inlet: The Authentic Town of Ponce Inlet
Looking for more recommendations of authentic places to go in Florida? Check out the Places to Go in Florida!
Y’all missed the Barberville Pioneer Arts settlement just catacorner from the Yard arts place at the corner of county road 3 and HWY 40! It’s a real gem. Local historical buildings, homes, a church, railway station, school house, blacksmith barn, print shop etc….all authentic old Florida! These buildings are the real deal and many were moved and restored to the site for preservation. The best thing is that you can go in them all…living history. Lots of events on their yearly calendar. Music on the porches and crafters shows are really nice.
In Pierson, Chipper Jones park
( Atlanta Braves baseball) park is a local gathering place for events like the 4th of July celebration, rodeo/ horse competitions , local ball games, events etc.
Good food to try M&E BBQ- try the Ribs! Wednesday Shrimp are yummy.
Pierson Family Restaurant
( good food and variety). Look for the giant rooster in front!
Newish Boat ramp & amenities on the St. John’s river. A quick boat ride to Silver Glen or DeLeon Springs.
Thanks so much for your excellent suggestions, Lynn! We love the Barberville Pioneer Village and talked about it in this article: https://authenticflorida.com/florida-black-bear-scenic-byway/ … You’ve inspired us to revisit this Pierson article and add more great places to visit. We really appreciate your input. Authentic Regards, Melanie