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The Best Things to See and Do in Daytona Beach

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The Best Things to See and Do in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is one of Florida’s most iconic beachfront towns, with miles of golden sand and a world-famous race track bearing the city’s name. From its picture-perfect beach to its vibrant nightlife, Daytona Beach has something for everyone who visits. If you’re planning a trip to this coastal paradise, here are the best things to see and do in Daytona Beach.

Witness the Thrill of NASCAR

No trip to Daytona Beach would be complete without a visit to the iconic Daytona International Speedway. Since 1959, this world-famous raceway has been the epicenter of NASCAR, hosting and showcasing some of the most renowned turns, curves, and drivers the sport has ever known. The Speedway recently underwent a full five-year renovation, the largest in its history, transform the iconic facility into a multi-faceted attraction including world-class racing and exhibitions. You can tour the track’s storied grounds or even book a personalized experience that allows you to see the track up close.

Relax on Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach has long been considered one of Florida’s best beach towns, and it’s not difficult to see why. Pack your bags, bring your beach umbrella and settle in for a day of sunbathing and swimming. The beach stretches for 23-miles along the Atlantic coast, making it ideal for an extra long stroll or seaside picnic. You can also take advantage of several beachside concessions which offer rentals for surfing, parasailing and other watersport activities.

Explore the Rich Cultural Scene

Daytona Beach isn’t just about surf and sand. The city also boasts an impressive arts and culture scene for visitors to explore. The Daytona Beach Museum of Arts & Sciences features 165,000 square feet of exhibition space, which includes interactive galleries and educational programs for children and adults alike. The city is also home to the Atlantic Center for the Arts, a renowned cultural center featuring a 121-acre campus which hosts rotating art exhibitions and offers artist residency programs each year.

Enjoy Some Entertainment

For those looking to add some evening entertainment to their vacation agenda, there are plenty of options available in Daytona Beach. From live theater performances at the Daytona Playhouse to concerts at the Peabody Auditorium and Ocean Walk Shoppes, there’s always something fun and interesting going on. Every week, visitors can also check out free weekly concerts at Riverfront Park or fireworks displays every Wednesday night at the Boardwalk Pier.

Sample Local Cuisine

Daytona Beach offers an impressive range of dining options from gourmet seafood restaurants to casual eateries serving comfort food with a twist. Fresh catches of the day can be found at almost any restaurant within sight of the ocean, while visitors craving some local flavors will find plenty of down-home barbecue in abundance throughout town. No matter what type of fare you’re looking for, you won’t have to look far to find something delicious in Daytona Beach.

From top-tier racing and endless seaside activities to art galleries and waterfront dining, Daytona Beach is a beautiful beach town with an endless list of attractions to explore. So if you’re planning a trip to the Florida coast, make sure you have your beach umbrella ready and take some time to experience all that this iconic city has to offer. Learn more about what Daytona has offer from VisitDaytonaBeach.com.

The Best Things to See and Do in Daytona Beach: An Insider’s Guide

If you’re looking for a classic Florida beach town with lots of sun, sand, and ocean views, Daytona Beach is a great choice. This city is well-known for its beach and speedway, but there’s so much more to discover here. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, Daytona Beach has something for everyone.

Attractions

There are several attractions that are worth visiting in Daytona Beach. Here are some of the top picks:

Daytona International Speedway

Race fans can’t miss out on visiting the Daytona International Speedway. This famous track hosts some of the biggest races in NASCAR, including the Daytona 500. You can take a tour of the track to learn more about its history and see the behind-the-scenes areas like the garages, the press box, and the room where drivers are inspected before they hit the track.

Beach Boardwalk and Pier

The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier is a classic spot for visitors. Here you’ll find a large amusement park with rides and games along with great views of the ocean. You can try your luck at skee ball, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stands.

Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse

The second tallest lighthouse in the United States, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, is located just south of Daytona Beach and is a must-see for history buffs. You can climb the 203 steps to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Dining

Daytona Beach has a great variety of dining options, from classic Florida seafood to comfort food favorites. Here are some of the best places to eat:

Hog Heaven Bar-B-Q

If you’re in the mood for barbecue, Hog Heaven is the place to go. This local favorite serves up smoked meats, ribs, and pulled pork sandwiches that are sure to satisfy. Don’t forget to try their famous BBQ sauce!

The Dancing Avocado Kitchen

The Dancing Avocado Kitchen is a great spot for healthy and delicious food options. They offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian items, as well as gluten-free options. Don’t miss their famous avocado toast or the sweet potato fries.

The Cellar Restaurant

For a cozy dinner spot, check out The Cellar Restaurant. This local favorite serves up classic American cuisine like filet mignon and fresh seafood in a romantic, candlelit setting.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to its fun attractions and dining spots, Daytona Beach also offers some great cultural experiences.

Halifax Historical Museum

Located in the historic downtown area, the Halifax Historical Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Daytona Beach. The museum features exhibits on local history, including Native American artifacts, the area’s natural history, and the development of the city.

MOAS: Museum of Arts and Sciences

The MOAS is a great spot for art and science lovers. This large museum has a variety of exhibits, including American art, African art, and a planetarium. There’s something for everyone here.

Local History

Daytona Beach has a rich history that’s worth learning about. Here are a couple of places to visit to learn more about the city’s past:

Jackie Robinson Ballpark

Built in 1914, Jackie Robinson Ballpark is a historic baseball stadium that was once home to the Daytona Cubs minor league team. The stadium is named after baseball great Jackie Robinson, who played a spring training game here in 1946.

Bethune-Cookman University

Founded in 1904, Bethune-Cookman University is a historically black university located in Daytona Beach. The campus has a rich history and is home to several historic buildings, including the Mary McLeod Bethune Home and the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in Daytona Beach, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail

A scenic route along the Halifax River, the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail is a great way to see the natural beauty of the Daytona Beach area. The loop is a 30-mile scenic drive that takes you past historic sites, parks, and stunning views of the river.

Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens

Located just south of Daytona Beach, the Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens is a beautiful spot to visit. The gardens feature a variety of plants and trees, including a butterfly garden, a palm collection, and a bromeliad garden. You can also take a walk through the historic ruins of a 19th century sugar mill.

In conclusion, Daytona Beach may be a classic Florida beach town, but there’s so much more to discover here. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just having fun, Daytona Beach has something for everyone. It’s a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, with a laid-back vibe that’s hard to resist.

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The Best Things to See and Do in Daytona Beach

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!