An all-things-NASCAR destination on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach has much more to offer than just the famed Daytona International Speedway. Family fun can be found in the games and amusements on the Daytona Boardwalk, as well as the waterslides of the Daytona Lagoon water park. Beyond that, many things to do in Daytona Beach center on the sea and sandy shores, including fishing trips and kayaking tours to see local wildlife such as manatees, sailing lessons, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and surf classes.
Bike Week in February and the Daytona 500 in March make late winter the best time to experience Daytona. However, late spring is giving the year’s early months a run for their money with the Jeep Beach event in April and Florida’s annual Welcome to Rockville concert rocking the city in May. Locals will admit that a dark horse candidate for the best time to visit is certainly the holiday season, when the Speedway is illuminated with the drive-thru Magic of Lights event.
Cars aren’t just a necessity on the Speedway—they’re a way of life. The Votran bus routes will give you a lift around the beach and city interior, but the high heat and sun exposure will make you crave the convenience (and air conditioning) that a private car provides. Accommodations along the shoreline are ideal, as parking near the beach can be difficult on weekends during the summer months.
Racing fans who can’t get enough NASCAR should know that the Richard Petty Driving Experience lets you tear through the iconic Daytona International Speedway track—behind the wheel of an authentic NASCAR vehicle, in fact. A lesser-known gem for families and car fans is the Museum of Arts & Sciences. One section of the museum features Indy Series race cars while another has a children’s museum with interactive and educational exhibits.
