Cultural and Historical Attractions
Daytona International Speedway
The Daytona International Speedway is more than just a racetrack; it is a symbol of speed, precision, and motor racing history. Located in the heart of Daytona Beach, this iconic venue has been hosting thrilling NASCAR races, including the world-famous Daytona 500, since its opening in 1959. The speedway spans 500 acres and features a 2.5-mile tri-oval track that challenges some of the best drivers in the world.
Visitors to the speedway can take part in various tours that offer a glimpse into the world of professional racing. The All-Access Tour provides an unforgettable experience, granting access to the start/finish line, the pit road, and the Gatorade Victory Lane where many champions have celebrated their victories. Additionally, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, located within the speedway grounds, showcases the rich legacy of motorsports through a collection of historic cars, memorabilia, and interactive displays.
Museum of Arts & Sciences
Daytona Beach is not only about thrilling races and stunning coastlines; it also offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, especially highlighted at the Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS). As the largest museum in Central Florida, MOAS is home to over 30,000 objects spanning art, science, and history, making it a cultural treasure trove.
Key highlights of MOAS include the Cuban Foundation Museum, which preserves a significant collection of Cuban paintings and ceramics, and the Charles and Linda Williams Children's Museum, a hands-on interactive space designed to educate and inspire young minds. Furthermore, the Root Family Museum within MOAS captivates visitors with its extensive collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia, vintage trains, and antique vehicles, offering a delightful journey through history.
For those interested in astronomy, the Lowell and Nancy Lohman Family Planetarium offers live star shows and full-dome movies that transport audiences through the cosmos. MOAS's blended focus on arts and sciences provides a comprehensive cultural escape for visitors of all ages.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
Standing as Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a sentinel of history and a beacon of navigation. Located a short drive south of Daytona Beach, this historic lighthouse rises 175 feet into the sky and has guided mariners safely along the Florida coast since it was first lit in 1887.
Visitors can climb the 203 steps to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Halifax River, and the surrounding landscape. The light station, beautifully restored to its original charm, is part of a museum complex that includes keeper's dwellings and an array of exhibits chronicling the lighthouse's history and the evolution of maritime navigation.
Beyond the lighthouse itself, the museum provides educational programs and workshops, making it an engaging visit for history enthusiasts and families alike. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, offering a fascinating glimpse into Florida’s coastal heritage and maritime history.
