post by: Rita, PlanetEye Traveler

Forget about the Spring Break party crowd that Daytona Beach was known for in days of yore. Now, while there might be a party, it’s hardly the type that a baby boomer can’t enjoy. Beach and sun, what’s not to love in one of Florida’s most famous cities? Indeed, with so much to do in Daytona Beach it might be hard to know where to begin? Focusing on a few of the highlights of the area; the Daytona International Speedway (as in Daytona 500), local spas of which there are plenty, a little bit of culture and good food, and you might still have some downtime for the 23 miles of beach to enjoy.

 

The Speedway: The Daytona National Speedway  is always worth a stop even if it’s not a race day. You might be able to watch the drivers testing the cars if you’re there on the right day and otherwise, the Daytona 500 Experience at the Speedway is worth a few hours. Track tours, simulators and an IMAX 3D movie presentation round out the activities and the live pit stop challenge is for men and women, again if you’re there on the right day. Call ahead and ask about the Richard Petty Driving Experience. It’s a 2 1/2 mile track at speeds as high as 150 mph, which means you’re running with the big boys, well sort of and, there’s a 30-minute track tour to round out the experience.

Culture: Daytona is the perfect place to take in a little culture with a bevy of museum offerings:

  • African American Museum of the Arts: African art from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Madagascar and Kenya is available for viewing in a permanent gallery collection also featuring six rotating visual arts exhibits and an amphitheater.
  • Museum of Arts and Science: This is the largest museum of its kind in the area with restored railroad cars, decorative and Cuban art and even a Planetarium for sky gazers.
  • Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens: A number of changing gallery exhibits work their way in and out of this museum and always featuring the works of prominent Florida and international artists. There is also a lush tropical garden to enjoy with nature trails, fishponds and fountains.
  • Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse: Completed in 1887, this lighthouse is the tallest in Florida at 175-feet. The lighthouse was completed in 1887 and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Count the steps, all 203 of ‘em and the view is stunning.

Food and Drink: Daytona Beach has an excellent selection of food options so all that really matters is what you’re hungry for really.

  • Ronin: It’s a sushi and sake bar and a staple in the Daytona Beach area for years.
  • The Cellar: Italian food served located in a quaint little historic home that once belonged to President Warren G. Harding. The home is on the National Historic Register, but the food highlights offer as big a “wow” as the location.
  • Lighthouse Landing: A restaurant and raw bar located on the inlet and in view of the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse. Great sunsets and a Boat bar outdoors means the perfect place for an evening of relaxation.
  • Martini’s Chophouse: When you mix a variety of specialty martinis with excellent food this chophouse is the result.

There is something for everyone in Daytona Beach! Find your perfect Florida accommodation today!

Photo credit:  Courtesy of Daytona Beach CVB