Authentic Florida: Daytona Beach so much more than racing

MELBOURNE, Fla. — The world-renowned Daytona 500 will take place for the 59th time on Feb. 26.

The iconic 200-lap, 500-mile stock car race held at Daytona International Speedway is just one of many reasons to spend time in Volusia County.

From Ormond Beach to New Smyrna Beach, and from DeLand to Cassadaga, Volusia County — including “the World’s Most Famous Beach,” Daytona Beach — has something for everyone.

This is definitely a place to go cruising with the top down and sunglasses on, but you don’t even need a car to get into the “cruisin’ state of mind.” Here, you can climb a lighthouse, hike through an oak hammock forest, fish off a pier, walk through a historic downtown area, meet a manatee or even visit a classic biker bar.

Whether walking through history or enjoying the area’s best-kept secrets, here are a few day trips for exploring the area. Each one will help you get to know the area while offering relaxation, fun and thrills that will keep you coming back for more.

Day trip No. 1

Daytona Beach is called the “original American beach,” with 23 miles of Atlantic waterfront providing more than ample room to plant your feet in the sand while enjoying the salty fresh air.

Over a century ago, this hard-packed sand drew early racecar drivers to test their vehicles for maximum speed, thus creating a historic racing heritage.

Fifteen world land speed records were set on the sand that soon became known as the Daytona Beach Road Course and was the precursor to Daytona International Speedway.

Because of this history, driving a car on the beaches where racing began the tradition is one of Daytona’s most iconic experiences.

Daytona Beach Pier. One of the most recognizable landmarks jutting over the Atlantic Ocean is the Daytona Beach Pier. It was originally built at the turn of the 20th century from old palm logs situated at the end of Main Street.

Ponce Inlet. Need a break from the beach but still want a water view? Head south on A1A to the charming town of Ponce Inlet.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse was built in the 1800s to reduce the number of shipwrecks because of the treacherous offshore reef.

Today, visitors can climb the 203-step lighthouse for a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding area. Explore the full complex that includes historic homes of former lighthouse keepers, a lens exhibit, oil storage buildings and a pump house — all providing insight into the life and times of those who toiled in this remote outpost.

Day trip No. 2

Volusia County’s western border largely rims the St. Johns River and the Ocala National Forest. The proximity to this luscious greenbelt sets the stage with a welcome oasis for those seeking a natural break from it all.

Thousands of acres of pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife beckon. Volusia County has many roadways, parks and waterways, well worth your visit because of the access to springs that empty into the St. Johns River. Nearby are small towns worth discovering where you can enjoy a meal and down-home ambiance.

Ormond Loop. “The loop” as it is known, is a must for anyone visiting the area. Whether in a car, a bike or motorcycle, breathe in the fresh air and experience this spectacular 30-mile journey through towering oak hammocks, past creeks, marshes, sand dunes and beaches.

Blue Spring State Park. Blue Spring State Park in Orange City is home to a first magnitude spring and is the largest refuge for manatees along the St. Johns River. From November through March, the refreshing 72-degree water of Blue Spring is welcome warmth for the West Indian Manatee seeking respite from the winter-cooled St. Johns River.

De Leon Springs State Park. Each day De Leon Springs pumps around 19 million gallons of sparkling water into an enclosed swimming area where visitors can enjoy the refreshing, 72-degree water. But the most popular attraction is the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House, where large pitchers of thick pancake batter are poured onto tableside griddles as generations of families make breakfast together.

And depending on what park you choose, enjoy visiting some of these nearby small towns:

DeLand. This charming college town, home to Stetson University, sits amid old oaks, historic homes (including the Stetson Mansion) and a quaint downtown offering a relaxing, younger vibe. The southern quaintness resonates throughout DeLand with its assortment of museums, art galleries and historic murals found throughout the downtown. Be sure to walk Woodland Boulevard and the Artisan Alley with its eclectic shops and the popular Persimmon Hollow Brewery.

Cassadaga. Need some healing energy, guidance on love, career or your life’s journey? Open your heart to another small town called Cassadaga, home to the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, one of the oldest spiritual communities in the Southeast. Established in 1875 as a spiritual retreat, it is home to a community of spiritual practitioners who will give you a reading through their clairvoyant powers and mediums, including astrology, numerology or tarot.

Day trip No. 3

The world of racing is on display everywhere in the Daytona Beach area. If it goes fast, it’s here: stock cars, sports cars, open wheel, motorcycles, drag racing, power boats and flying machines.

The roots of this speed capital are anchored in the early 20th century when automobiles were first introduced. They drove on the beaches because most roads were horse trails and not able to support the fast speeds of the automobile.

The first speed record was set in 1927; the first auto race was held in 1936; and in 1948 NASCAR was founded in Daytona Beach. A superspeedway opened in 1959. Christened Daytona International Speedway, the track began a new chapter in auto racing history.

Of course, no trip to Daytona Beach is complete without a visit to the speedway. Guests can enjoy many things to do, including the popular Speedway Tour tram ride that showcases the grounds and “world center of racing.” Experience the immensity of this motorsports stadium, including the steep-banked 31-degree turn 4, then head toward Victory Lane for a photo opp.

Next, admire the winning car of the latest Daytona 500 and pose for your classic Daytona Beach selfie. Visit the new Motorsports Hall of Fame of America that features classic speed machines showcasing motorsports history, including a Dale Earnhardt stock car, “Big Daddy” Don Garlits’ dragster, a Bill Elliott stock car, plus powerboats and motorcycles. If you still haven’t had enough, try the Richard Petty Driving Experience where you actually get behind the wheel of a NASCAR racecar.

Bikers and Bars. And it goes without saying that Daytona Beach is also a mecca for motorcyclists. Bikers, bikes, shops and races are central to this community, and the most popular events are Bike Week or the October Biketoberfest, where 125,000 motorcycle enthusiasts gather from throughout the county.

If you are not in Daytona Beach during either event you can still get the vibe by visiting a few nostalgic biker hangouts that will not disappoint.

Main Street Station. Located just blocks from Daytona Beach on Main Street and once owned by stock car racing founder Bill France Sr. as a full auto garage, the Main Street Station is now a converted open-air bar that still resembles a garage.

Iron Horse Saloon. If there is an iconic watering hole for bikers it is surely the Iron Horse Saloon, a complete enclave, akin to a rustic biker camp, that is worth the visit. Tree houses, swinging bridges, bars, old buses — all combine for fun and to let the good times roll.

Need a place to stay? For charming, low-key accommodations try these three authentic Florida options: Tropical Manor; River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast; Sea Shell’s Beach Club.

For food and authentic eateries: Crabby Joes, Daytona Beach; Dancing Avocado Kitchen, Daytona Beach; Hull’s Seafood, Ormond Beach; JB’s Fish Camp, New Smyrna Beach; Racing’s North Turn, Ponce Inlet.