Daytona Beach Attractions: 8 Different Ways to Play

With a focus on beach lovers and friendly vibes, the top Daytona Beach attractions offer a mix of things to do. Whether looking for fun-filled activities or escaping to Florida’s natural landscape, those vacationing in Daytona have the best of both worlds. Most know Daytona as home to Daytona International Speedway, but there’s way more to do here. Don’t miss all the fun activities, and check out these popular Daytona Beach attractions.

Top 8 Daytona Beach Attractions Vacationers Can’t Miss

Start at Daytona Beach

Located on the Atlantic Ocean coast, Daytona Beach offers 23 miles of beaches open 24/7 and free to the public. Families relax in the sun or try one of the area’s many water activities including fishing, boating, surfing, paddleboarding and parasailing.

Daytona also offers vehicle accessible beach areas where visitors drive along the coast and enjoy the view. Before heading to Daytona Beach, check out local events, and celebrate beach style.

Explore Daytona Beach Boardwalk

This is no ordinary boardwalk. Daytona Beach Boardwalk ranks among the best Daytona Beach attractions because it serves as an entertainment center. At the boardwalk, visitors play at Joyland Amusement Center and Mardi Gras Fun Center, ride a roller coaster, go karts and the slingshot.

In addition to rides, families have a blast playing classic and new arcade games. The boardwalk also houses a pizza restaurant, gift shops and sweet treats. Those vacationing between Memorial Day and Labor Day, can’t miss the fireworks show every Saturday night.

See Downtown Daytona Beach

Downtown Daytona Beach offers more than 60 stores, restaurants and attractions. Shoppers enjoy exploring Riverfront Shops at Daytona Beach packed full of boutiques and specialty shops perfect for souvenir shopping.

Families also love fresh locally made goodies at the farmers market open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Another top spot is historic Beach Street – located between Bay Street and Orange Avenue – where families have a mix of restaurants and annual events.

Museum of Arts and Sciences

Museum of Arts and Sciences – also known as MOAS – features collections that showcase regional art, American and European fine arts, African artifacts and fossils. The museum is separated into smaller museums and large exhibits, including a children’s museum.

Small children enjoy interactive exhibits that focus on science and promote creativity. MOAS also houses a planetarium that offers weekly shows with laser lights and music.

Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum

Check out the tallest lighthouse in Florida at Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum. This historical favorite ranks in the top Daytona Beach attractions and welcomes more than 170,000 guests each year who enjoy history and breathtaking views.

After visiting the lighthouse, go to Lighthouse Point Park, which measures 52 acres. Park guests have opportunities for wildlife-watching, fishing, hiking, swimming and picnicking. Although located in proximity to one another, there are separate admission fees to each attraction.

Play Congo River Golf

Those looking for a friendly game should play mini-golf at Congo River Golf. Named one of the top miniature golf courses and Daytona Beach attractions, Congo River Golf features waterfalls, caves and rain forests.

To enhance the experience, see more than 25 live alligators guests can feed and pose with for photos. Other fun activities at Congo River Golf include gem mining, playing in the arcade and a treasure hunting game.

Splash Around Daytona Lagoon

Spend the day at Daytona Lagoon, an amusement park with a water park, go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, arcade and rock wall. The whole family will love splashing, playing and trying one of the water slides. Top areas for families include Kraken’s Conquest and Adventure Mountain.

Ride The Loop With Loved Ones

Bicyclists and motorcyclists can’t miss Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail, a 34-mile route that explores Florida’s natural beauty. This drive is free from stoplights and shopping centers, so visitors enjoy miles of well maintained scenery.

While traveling the route, visitors pass Tomoka State Park, a popular place for fishing and crabbing, as well as tree-lined roads and live oak canopies. Due to popularity, the Loop sets lower speed limits that change often so everyone can enjoy the drive at a leisurely pace.

Looking for more Daytona Beach attractions? Learn about the Daytona International Speedway and these free things to do.

Find your ideal Daytona Beach vacation rental, so everyone has plenty of space.