Image courtesy of Time Out.
Daytona Beach is one of those iconic American cities-- known for its beautiful beaches, amazing nightlife, and pulse pounding races-- it really is The World’s Most Famous Beach. There is so much to do in and around the city, that you’re going to want to take some time to explore the culture, outdoor activities, and dining options. Daytona Beach is where visitors go to enjoy some serious fun in the sun, and are always welcomed by the laid back nature of the local citizens.
This beach has a little something to offer everyone, so whether you’re just in for a weekend, or have some time to spend in the city, make sure you check out the must-see attractions on this list. No trip to a beach city would be complete without some fantastic dining options as well, so we’ve included some of the most popular places that locals and visitors both enjoy.
1801 W. International Speedway | Delaware North PCD | daytonainternationalspeedway.com
If you’re a racing fan, or even just interested in the history of car racing, you definitely need to visit the Daytona International Speedway. This venue hosts the most famous race in the world each year in February, the Daytona 500. But did you know that it also hosts all kinds of other races throughout the year? The Speedway is also open for rental for events as well.
There are tours that take you down on the track so you can get up close and personal with the racing pit. There are also tours that explain the history of the facility as well as the racing greats that have driven on this track. The Speedway is a great place to experience what it’s like to be on the track, and learn a little something about Daytona Beach history.
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“Daytona International Speedway is definitely the place to check out if you are visiting Daytona. Come for a tour and see the behind scenes, learn about the history and visit icon places like Victory Lane.” -Yelp Review
25 Ocean Ave. | Rogers Seabreeze | daytonabeach.com
When you come to Daytona Beach, you have to check out the beautiful beaches and take a walk down the boardwalk. The beaches have the softest sand, with no rocks or pebbles in sight. The water is cool and refreshing, just what you need after some serious sunbathing! If the Atlantic waves aren’t enough for you, stop into the Daytona Lagoon Water Park for more fun!
The Boardwalk is a fun area that has many souvenir shops that are sure to have the perfect momento to remember your trip by. In addition to some beach shopping, there is an arcade with games for the kids, or the young at heart! If you get hungry, there are plenty of places to pick up the famous boardwalk fries or enjoy an ice cream cone. Make sure you walk to the end of the pier and see how far you can see!
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4931 S. Peninsula Dr. | Ponce Inlet | ponceinlet.org
Just a short drive from the beach is the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, which also happens to be the tallest lighthouse in Florida. This lighthouse was constructed in 1887 and towers 175 feet in the air to safely guide ships at sea. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1998, and is one of the most visited places in Daytona Beach. If you can climb the stairs all the way to the top, you’ll learn about the people who built this lighthouse, and about the keepers who kept it functioning for over 130 years.
The view at the top is simply stunning, so make sure to take some awesome pictures while you’re there! Stop at the museum’s gift shop on your way out as well, for an interesting selection of books and other souvenirs.
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“So they are fun to visit, this one we enjoyed a lot because it's much more then just going up a lighthouse, which is amazing in itself, because you always have an incredible view, am I right?” -Yelp Review
252 S. Nova Rd. | Tuscawilla Highlands | www.moas.org
The Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and Science has many interesting and ongoing exhibits, but it is completely doable to see them all on your trip to Daytona Beach. Of specific interest to the museum is educating people about local Florida history, including the Seminole Native Americans, and the peculiar weather that typical of Daytona Beach. Admission to the museum also comes with a planetarium ticket, so after touring through the exhibits, stop in and catch a show at the planetarium! If you happen to visit on a Saturday, make sure you stay and catch the Laser Rock Concert!
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“This was such a cute museum. It was clean, informational and organized. The kids had a great time. We enjoyed the planetarium as well. This is a such a nice place to bring the kids during the summer.” -Yelp Review
910 Biscayne Blvd. | DeLand | delandnavalairmuseum.org
What was originally the the DeLand Airport was purchased by the U.S. Navy in 1941, and quickly turned into a bustling air station throughout World War II. After the war, the air station was returned to the City of DeLand, but it was never used as a commercial airport. In 1995 the museum opened its doors on the former air station’s grounds, and has developed quite an interesting collection of planes and other memorabilia.
In addition to the machines already on display, the volunteers at the museum are currently working to repair a TBF Avenger, M38A1 Jeep, and a PTF-3 Fast Torpedo Boat. DeLand is a short drive from Daytona Beach, and this museum is well worth the trip!
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“While it might not seem like much at first glance, this small museum is packed full of historic artifacts and information. There are several planes and a boat with an interesting past. This place is definitely worth a visit if you like military history.” -Yelp Review
831 E. International Speedway | Marina Point Condo | facebook.com/BIGTUNASBEACHBARNGRILL
When you visit Daytona Beach, you’ve got to have some meals right on the waterfront. After spending some time playing on the beach, you’re going to work up an appetite. Big Tunas Beach Bar and Grill is the perfect place to throw on your sandals, and use the beach entrance to come in for some bites. No matter whether you decide to sit inside or out on their expansive deck, your meal is definitely coming with a view. Relax and gaze out at the Atlantic as you enjoy some amazing seafood, or try one of their burgers or appetizers instead.
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“So freaking good, food came out fast and tasted delicious! This is a place I highly recommend to try out in Daytona and provides a great spot beach side to relax.” -Yelp Review
63 W. Granada Blvd. | Ormond Beach | 63sovereign.com
When you come to the beach, you have to try the seafood. Because Daytona Beach is right on the water, the restaurants in the area are assured some fantastic fresh catches. But not all restaurants go the extra mile when it comes to creative and interesting seafood cuisine. This restaurant is known throughout the area as having some amazing seafood, with cooks who aren’t afraid to try new flavors and combinations. It really worked, because 63 Sovereign is now one of the most popular places to get a fresh items off the raw bar, try a new twist on tuna, or some amazingly large scallops.
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“Wow what an awesome meal ! Everything was perfect. Shrimp ceviche was amazing and fresh. Great atmosphere and service. We will be back !!! -Yelp Review
701 Main St. | Rogers Seabreeze | daytonabeachmainstreet.com
Daytona Beach is well known for its nightlife, and the Bank and Blues Club does not disappoint! No matter what type of music you’re into, this place is going to have a live act for you. Each weekend they have live music, and the sound system in this historic bank building is incredible. Each year for Daytona Beach Bike Week and Biketoberfest, the Bank and Blues Club adds additional shows, and this place can get pretty packed! When you’re looking for something different on a night out, consider checking this club out.
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“This is a must stop if you live in or are visiting Daytona. My friends and I made it our local music scene bar and were going there every time they were playing live music.” -Yelp Review
611 Seabreeze Blvd. | Seabreeze Historical District | razzlesnightclub.com
If you’re in the mood for some dancing to the music of a live DJ, look no further than this popular nightclub. Each weekend there are typically long lines out the door, so make sure you stop by this place earlier rather than later. Daytona Beach is a fun place to explore after dark, and Razzle NightClub should definitely be on your list of spots to visit.
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“I had SO much fun here! We danced until our heart was content! All in all- this place was really chill and a great find for a bunch of guys that had no idea where to go in a new city. The crowd was mixed age group but it all seem very positive and supportive. There was a really good vibe here. -Yelp Review
Daytona Beach is full of some amazing activities to keep you busy during the day, and at night as well! Whether you want to relax on the beach and enjoy the seafood, or take in some of the cultural sights, Daytona Beach has got you covered for both! Where are your favorite places to visit in Daytona Beach? Let us know in the comments!