A Tiny World of Magic in Florida
This whimsical little oddity wasn’t on the itinerary, but when we spotted a gnome-sized door at the base of a tree in Holly Hill, we couldn’t resist. It ended up being one of the most memorable detours on our Michigan-Bound Road Trip!
Nestled along Riverside Drive in Holly Hill, Florida, the Holly Hill Gnome Tree stands as one of the state’s most enchanting roadside attractions. This magical tree has become home to hundreds of tiny gnomes, each with its own personality and story. What started as a simple idea in 2003 has grown into a full-blown gnome village, delighting visitors and sparking curiosity among travelers looking for something truly unique.
How the Holly Hill Gnome Tree Began
The magic of this gnome sanctuary started with just three small gnomes, placed at the base of the tree by Virginia Morris and her husband. Inspired by a story of a man who left papers and pencils for children along his walking route, Morris decided to create a whimsical space where people could leave notes, share stories, and add their own gnome residents.
Over time, the Holly Hill Gnome Tree became a community project, with locals and visitors alike dropping off gnomes, tiny artwork, and messages. Today, the gnome population has exploded, turning this Florida attraction into a must-see roadside destination.
What Makes the Holly Hill Gnome Tree Special?
✅ A Growing Gnome Village – The tree is packed with tiny figurines, each carefully placed by visitors who want to contribute to the magic.
✅ A Place for Stories – A notepad sits at the site, allowing guests to leave messages, drawings, and notes for the gnome community.
✅ Community Care – The gnomes are taken inside during bad weather, ensuring they stay safe from Florida storms.
✅ A Living Landmark – Notes and letters left at the tree are catalogued at the Holly Hill History Museum, preserving the tradition for future visitors.
A Living Storybook Beneath the Bark
What makes the Holly Hill Gnome Tree truly magical is its ever-changing nature. No two visits are alike. One week, a gnome might be lounging in a hammock made from twine; the next, he’s gone—replaced by a new ceramic character with a fishing pole and a mischievous grin. Visitors often return just to see what’s changed, treating this gnome sanctuary like a living storybook that updates with every passerby.
The site has also become a quiet hub for kindness. Some leave notes of encouragement tucked behind bark, while others donate miniature furniture or hand-painted signs. It’s not just a tourist stop—it’s a place where imagination and generosity meet. The Holly Hill History Museum even catalogs the notes and letters left behind, preserving the evolving folklore for future generations.
Whether you’re a gnome enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the unexpected, this tree offers a moment of wonder in a world that often forgets to look down and smile.
Visiting the Holly Hill Gnome Tree
📍 Location: 1037 Riverside Dr, Holly Hill, FL 32117
⭐ Rating: 4.6 stars from visitors who love its charm
📸 What to Bring: A camera, a note to leave behind, or even a new gnome to add to the collection!
Why You Should Visit This Florida Gnome Village
The Holly Hill Gnome Tree isn’t just a quirky roadside attraction—it’s a community-driven piece of magic, built by the people who visit it. Whether you’re a fan of hidden gems, whimsical sights, or just love a good story, this tiny gnome village is worth the stop on your Florida road trip.
If tiny doors make your heart skip, roadside magic sparks your curiosity, or you’re the type to detour for glitter in bark, you’re officially one of us. Florida’s full of these quirky treasures—and our Things to Do in Florida list is your roadmap to all the oddities, giggles, and tiny-hat enchantments waiting out there.