After a wet weekend in Michigan that brought us some fantastic Monday racing, we head down south to Daytona for some high-speed racing under the lights. If you have never been to Daytona International Speedway, I highly suggest you plan a trip. I can honestly say there is nothing that compares to seeing the cars go by in person. I was able to go with my dad for the Daytona 500 weekend in 2015 and watching the races on TV has never been the same.
If you will be in attendance this weekend, I hope you have a wonderful time with great weather and even better racing on the track. If you are looking for activities and restaurants in the area to try, here are some suggestions!
ATTRACTIONS
- Daytona Lagoon Premier Water Park and Family Fun Entertainment Center is across the street from the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. This is a great option for those with kids and teenagers. There are 12 water rides in the water park portion.
(Photo Credit: Daytona Lagoon | Facebook) In the entertainment center area there is a ropes course, a rock wall, laser tag, go-kart racing, and much more to keep you occupied if you don’t want to join in on getting wet. There is a restaurant on site if your group needs to chow down between activities.
- A short drive south from Daytona Beach is Ponce Inlet. You can visit the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum. There is a small admission fee, which includes access to the top of the 1880s brick lighthouse if you want to climb all the steps. I was told the view from the top is amazing.
- Another fun option is booking a Dolphin and Manatee boat tour with Ponce Inlet Watersports. The 90 minute tour takes you along the Intercoastal Waterway.
(Photo Credit: Shelley Lynch Photography, Ponce Inlet Watersports | Facebook) You will learn about the history of the area and who knows what all kinds of animals you will see. Maybe a dolphin will come along your boat! They also offer kayak, paddleboard and boat rentals if you want to go exploring on your own.
- If you want a relaxed day going at your own pace, pack up some snacks and drinks and spend some time on Daytona Beach. You can stroll the boardwalk, sunbathe, splash in the waves and even walk the stretch of beach that NASCAR used to race on!
(Photo Credit: hotels.com)
RESTAURANTS
- If you want to chow down on seafood while looking at a great view try Crabby’s Oceanside in Daytona Beach. I was told the stuffed flounder was delicious and they have the best oysters. The alligator bites are a must try if you have never had alligator before.
- Starlight Diner is a great place to fuel up for breakfast, lunch or dinner. No one will go hungry here. There are waffles, omelets and plate specials for breakfast. Salads, burgers, and diner favorites for lunch and dinner. Â Make sure to leave room for a slice of pie or cake!
(Photo Credit: www.starlitedinerdb.com/)
