Sharing the Rich History of Ormond Beach Through Education and Preservation...

Hotel Ormond Cupola

In Fortunato Park

Open to the public Saturdays & Sundays from 2-4pm (September through June)

Closed July and August

Admission FREE

Click on “Events & Programs” above for more information

The Cupola is the only remnant of the old Hotel Ormond, which stood across John Anderson Drive from Fortunato Park (now the Ormond Heritage Condominium) from 1887 – 1992. The cupola stood atop the hotel’s roof near the center of the sprawling structure. From this lofty perch, hotel guests could take in both ocean and river views.

When the Hotel was demolished in 1992, the cupola was actually taken to a salvage yard on the mainland with the rest of the demolition debris. Long-time Historical Society members Parker and Jane Robinson led the preservation efforts to rescue the Cupola. After the successful campaign to preserve it, the structure was put on a flatbed truck and slowly driven back over the Ormond Bridge to its current location as the centerpiece of the city’s Fortunato Park.

Inside the first floor of the restored structure are displays of photographs, memorabilia and information about the history of the Hotel Ormond and the Cupola itself.  A large painting by local artist Betty Krausman shows a view of the Hotel from a photograph taken on its opening day in 1888.

The weathervane at the peak of the roof was installed in 2006 in memory of Parker Robinson Jr. who helped lead the preservation efforts. It was designed by architect and Ormond Beach resident T.P. Plimpton and sculpted by local metal artist Larry Devall.

Just outside the door to the Cupola is the brass historical marker that stood for many years outside the Hotel Ormond, designating it as a historic landmark. It was also rescued from the demolition debris. Stop by the Cupola for a glimpse of Ormond Beach’s past as a winter playground of the rich and famous.