Barberville Yard Art Emporium
About 25 minutes North of Deland is a free roadside attraction called Barberville Yard Art Emporium. It’s really more than a roadside attraction, because there is plenty to buy here if you find something you like. You don’t visit here so much as you wander through three acres that exist halfway between a folk-art fair and a tropical fever dream. The “attractions” come in the vast, twenty-foot art pieces of giraffes, gorillas, and dinosaurs, among others.
Can you buy these giant sculptures? Yes, but they are pretty pricey. If that is something you’re willing to invest in, there’s practical value in them.
Durable metal art – Most of the pieces hold up beautifully against Florida’s sun and rain. They’re built for outdoor life, not just for looks.
Instant curb appeal – One statement piece can transform a balcony, patio, walkway, or garden bed.
Budget-friendly finds – Mixed in among the giant sculptures are plenty of affordable, smaller pieces perfect for gifting or small-space decorating.
If significant outdoor focal points aren't your thing, they have much smaller pieces, including thousands of handmade Talavera Mexican Pottery tiles, wall hangings, and more, many of which are from Haitian artisans who create art from old 55-gallon oil drums.
It’s completely free to walk around, and you will find yourself laughing, pointing, taking pictures, and even being in awe at the handiwork, especially in the wood area, making it a fun and unique thing to do. Between the large dinosaurs, ants, and aliens, I felt like I could be on a set for Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, X-Files, and Pee Wee’s Big Adventure all at once.
Living in Orlando’s center, it’s a solid hour drive, so I added it on to a day trip to Deland, as I was not sure it merited its own day trip with no other activity. So if you will be in the area, or driving through I would say it’s worth the stop.
They are open 9 AM - 6 PM everyday.
Barberville Yard Art Emporium - 140 FL-40, Pierson, FL 32180
