The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Daytona Beach, Florida Now
BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
May 2022 • 2 min read
Daytona Beach, Florida boasts world-class resorts, family friendly attractions, the Daytona International Speedway, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and the opportunity to rejuvenate in the surf and explore the area’s 23 miles of white, sandy beaches.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station in Daytona Beach, Florida
Just a splash south of Daytona Beach, climb 203 steps up the 175-foot tower to the top of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station for spectacular views of Ponce Inlet and Daytona Beach.
1. THE SHOPPING
When it comes to shopping in Daytona Beach, Florida there’s certainly no shortage. You’ll discover seaside boutiques with the latest swimwear and fun in the sun accessories to upscale shopping malls and designer discount outlets on a budget with all your favorites.
Image Courtesy of Daytona Beach Area CVB
Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach has everything from J. Crew to Coach, while Volusia Mall has your larger department stores such as Macy’s and Dillard’s. To experience it all, head over to One Daytona for Pink Narcissus, a Lily Pulitzer Signature Store. For open-air, beachfront shopping, look no further than the Ocean Walk Shoppes for more eclectic selections of swimwear, souvenirs and accessories.
2. THE ART
Daytona Beach is home to outstanding cultural venues, like the Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts & Sciences, Central Florida’s primary art, science and history museum. The museum sits on the Tuscawilla Nature Preserve and contains over 30,000 objects including one of the finest collections of American art in the Southeast, Sub-Saharan African artifacts, Chinese art, and the the largest and most comprehensive collection of decorative arts in the South. An entire day could be spent exploring the museum's collections and Tuscawilla Preserve.
The mural located at Crabby’s Oceanside in Daytona Beach is a fun take on the iconic “World’s Most Famous Beach” archway sign located at the intersection of South Atlantic Avenue and International Speedway Boulevard. Soaring above breezy Victory Circle at ONE DAYTONA is the 16 foot tall Jantzen Diving Girl—one of only 6 remaining in the world and a stop along the Iconic Trail. The icon in a bathing cap first made its way to Daytona Beach in the 1960s, suspended high above Ocean Avenue on Stamie’s Smart Beachwear shop, and later returned in 2018 after a fresh makeover.
3. THE COCKTAILS & CUISINE
Overlooking the historic Clocktower with panoramic Atlantic Ocean views combined with local specialties from fishing boats and nearby farms, dining at Doc Bales' Oceanfront Grill is a coastal culinary experience. Doc Bales’ is a favorite for inventive, farm-to-table cuisine and hand-crafted libations that are both seasonally influenced and well balanced. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the McCoys Smoked Old Fashioned—concocted with McCoys 12-year old rum, angostura bitters, maraschino cherry, and topped with a twist of orange peel.
Highlighting Florida’s coastal cuisine and the freshest seafood and chops—favorite dishes to indulge on at Doc Bales' Oceanfront Grill include Charcuterie & Shrimp with Red Grapes, Aged Smoked Cheddar, Boursin and Brie Cheese, Truffled Salami, Spanish Chorizo, Black Peppered Salami, Water Crackers and Organic Honeycomb, including Blackened Shrimp Tacos with jalapeño slaw and plantain chips, as well as Prime Cut Beef Tenderloin, and decadently local Crab Legs.
For those craving something sweet, indulge on a selection (or two) from the table side dessert cart. We’re smitten for the Florida Key Lime Pie.
4. THE GARDENS
Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is an English sugar mill ruins surrounded by lush botanical gardens, native trees, a butterfly garden and collections of bromeliads, ginger and cacti. A rare human sundial allows visitors to stand next to the current month's tablet and with arms raised, the shadow will point to the time. The gardens feature the ruins of a 19th century sugar factory which contains the most complete sugar grinding machines in the country.
The gardens feature the ruins of a 19th-century sugar factory which contains the most complete sugar grinding machines in the country. Around every corner there are huge dinosaur statues, remnants of an amusement park from 1949. There may have heavy infestations of poison ivy so, and it is recommended to stay on the designated paths.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
The Hotchkiss House was built in 1905 by E.H. Hotchkiss, internationally known for marketing the Hotchkiss stapler. The grand Queen Victorian Anne turreted mansion was built high overlooking the Halifax River and offers spectacular patio views of the river. Victorian Tea is served by historic re-enactors on the 3rd Tuesday of each month and Winedown Wednesdays are a must-visit.
Built in 1884, Lilian Place is the oldest grand house on Daytona’s Beachside. The Italianate High Victorian house was built by one of the city's first settlers and made famous by Stephen Crane in his story “The Open Boat.” This prime architectural example affords a widow's walk, carved woodwork, and heart-of-pine floors (one of only two in Volusia County, Florida). Step back into the past with daily guided tours.
WHERE TO STAY IN DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA
At the edge of the most famous beach in the world, in the center of Ocean Walk Village, Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort surrounds you with new discoveries and is steps way from the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier. Casually elegant, oceanside rooms welcome you, along with spacious suites and cabanas that put you right on the beach. Bordered by some of Daytona Beach's best attractions, dine on Florida's freshest coastal cuisine, play a game of volleyball with the family, or let loose at Daytona Lagoon Waterpark. Book below to reserve your room at the lowest price, guaranteed.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort in Daytona Beach, Florida
ELEGANT DAYTONA BEACH ACCOMMODATIONS. Coastal chic (think beautiful tropical décor and serene colors) describes the vibe at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. With 744 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, accommodations feature spectacular views of our pool, the city of Daytona Beach or the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. Spacious guest rooms offer plenty of relaxation and comfort by the beach with the option of one king bed or two queen beds. Cabana suites are located on the beach level and have outside access to a patio overlooking the ocean. In addition to the many amenities offered in all guest rooms, suites include a separate parlor area separated from the bedroom by beautiful French doors, wet bar and terrace.
PET-FRIENDLY. Bringing Porter? Pets are welcome with your stay and a $100 non-refundable deposit.
SMILING FACES EVERYWHERE YOU TURN. From the valet to the waitstaff, this four diamond award-winning oceanfront property is sure to impress the most discerning travelers and families alike.
RELAX & UNWIND. The Spa at the Hilton invites you to escape and unwind as you experience the benefits of our rejuvenating spa treatments. Take a dip in the sparkling beachfront pool with expansive sun deck, a hot tub, and semi-private sun loungers. You’ll be delighted to take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean during your stay.
THE BEST OCEANFRONT LOCATION. The Main Street District, home to shops, restaurants and the Museum of Arts and Sciences, is just a few blocks away from the hotel. In the heart of all of the attractions of beachside Daytona, across the street is the Ocean Center Convention Center and Daytona Lagoon. The famous Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier are just steps from the hotel and the Ocean Walk Shoppes are connected to the northside of the hotel. Daytona Beach is perfect for surfing, beach biking, sailing, fishing, snorkeling and many other water activities. You can also find beach horseback riding, hiking, and waterparks within 30 minutes of the hotel.
