Hello, NASCAR Fans! Get ready for The Great American Race! The Daytona 500 is not just a race, it's a week long celebration of speed, culture and community that transforms Daytona Beach into a hub of excitement. Whether you're a diehard NASCAR fan or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, there's plenty to do beyond the racetrack. Here's a guide to unique activities you can enjoy during Daytona 500 weekend.
Don't forget the start of Daytona 500 weekend is Valentine's Day!
You're here for an iconic race and of course you want to find the best iconic things to do that are race enthusiast related and some that are not. Here's a list to keep you busy:
1.   Drive on the Beach: Where racing was born. Can't get more iconic than this! Grab a day pass at Silver Beach Access Ramp and drive all the way south to Crabby Joe's! The sand is pretty compacted and 4 wheel drive is not needed.
2.   Explore the Daytona International Speedway: Before the race, take a tour of the iconic Daytona International Speedway. The "World Center of Racing" offers behind the scenes access to areas usually off limits to the public. You can visit the media center, the garages and even take a lap around the track in a pace car for an adrenaline rush you won't forget!
3.   Birthplace of NASCAR: Streamline Hotel, It's a short distance from the city's legendary Daytona Beach - nicknamed the 'World's Most Famous Beach' - where the first NASCAR-sanctioned race was held in 1948. Renowned gangster Al Capone frequented the hotspot in its heyday along with moonshiners who were among NASCAR's first generation of racers. When they first started racing on the beach, they drove right by the hotel, which now sits on the western side of a scenic roadway. Check out the view from the Rooftop Bar and ask to see Al Capone's Safe. If your into moonshine, check out Copper Bottom Craft Distillery!
4.   Iconic Beach Bonfire: Daytona is one of the few places in Florida where you can still have a fire on the beach. What a way to relax, sitting next to a crackling log fire with the sound of the ocean waves rolling in. There's a local company, Beach Campfires that will set it all up for you! Booking online is easy. You can add s'mores, hot dogs, hot cocoa and glow games. Choose a cozy fire for 2 or bring the whole gang; they can accommodate up to 400. You might even be lucky enough to see a rocket launch. Daytona Beach is one of the best viewing spots. Check out the Space X Launch Schedule.
5.   Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier: The beachfront boardwalk is a vibrant destination filled with a variety of shops and eateries. A new one that sprung up recently is Dick's Last Resort, bringing world famous saas to the world's most famous beach. The Shame O' Daytona will make ya feel right at home. After a bite to eat, take a stroll on the Pier and take in the amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean. If you're an early bird, watching the spectacular sunrise is a must do!
6.   Take a Scenic Drive along the Loop: If you have a car, take a scenic drive along the Ormond Loop. This picturesque route offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush landscapes. There are several spots for hiking, viewing ruins and a 3000 year old Live Oak. Follow the loop across High Bridge, turn left on the A1A and follow it north to Flagler Beach for the best unobstructed views of the ocean you will see anywhere in the area. Stop at a new hotspot, Next Door Beach Bistro for lunch or dinner. Amazing atmosphere and food that never disappoints.
7.   Visit Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse: Just a short drive from Daytona Beach, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a must see. Climb the 203 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding area. The lighthouse grounds also feature a museum detailing the marine history of the region.
8.   Indulge in Local Cuisine: No visit to Daytona Beach is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to southern comfort food, the area boasts a wide variety of dining options. Be sure to check out popular spots like Ocean Deck for a lively atmosphere or for a more upscale experience, dine on the the sand with Beach Teepees.
9.   Discover Historic Beach Street: Come spend a delightful day in Downtown Daytona Beach’s historic Beach Street retail area located between Bay Street and Orange Avenue. You’ll enjoy new flavors, treasures, experiences and events – It’s the perfect place to escape the ordinary. Fuel up for the day at Copperline Coffee and a few shops away watch Angell & Phelps make amazingly good chocolates at Daytona's only chocolate factory. The peanut butter meltaways are so good you won't want to share! You might even want to grab a few dark chocolate sea shells to pair with a glass at Madeline's Wine Bar.
10.   Experience the Beach at Night: Take a trip back to a simpler time with a classic beach fire and live music; Enjoy an evening of live music with Jason Fowler on Valentine's Day at 8pm. Jason's style is a unique blend of contemporary and southern rock. Gather around a roaring beach fire right on the iconic shores of the World Famous Daytona Beach next to the iconic Pier. With wide open skies overhead and almost no light pollution, this is one for the stargazers.
Comments