Volusia County Florida Map
Located in the eastern part of Florida, Volusia County is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, a foodie or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful county. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that you can enjoy in Volusia County.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Volusia County is the Daytona International Speedway, which hosts the famous Daytona 500 race every year. If you’re a fan of motorsports, this is a must-visit destination. Another popular attraction is the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, which offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. For animal lovers, the Marine Science Center is a great place to learn about marine life and conservation efforts. The DeLand Naval Air Station Museum is also worth a visit, as it showcases the history of naval aviation.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, you should check out the DeLeon Springs State Park, which is known for its natural spring that stays at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. You can go swimming, kayaking, or take a boat tour to explore this beautiful park. Another hidden gem is the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, which features a botanical garden and a historic sugar mill. You can also enjoy a picnic, go fishing, or take a stroll through the nature trails here.
Food Scene
Volusia County has a diverse food scene that offers everything from seafood to barbecue. If you’re a fan of seafood, you should try the oysters at the Oyster Pub in Daytona Beach or the shrimp and grits at the Half Wall Restaurant in New Smyrna Beach. For barbecue, you can visit the Uncle Kenny’s BBQ in Daytona Beach or the Four Winds Steakhouse in Port Orange. The County Line Pizza & Pub in South Daytona is also a great place to grab a slice of pizza and a beer.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, you can still enjoy many of the attractions in Volusia County without breaking the bank. You can visit the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, which offers free admission, or the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, which has a suggested donation of $2. The DeLand Outdoor Art Festival and the DeLand Craft Show are also free events that showcase local artists and craftsmen.
Outdoor Adventures
Volusia County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its miles of beaches, rivers, and parks. You can go surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking at the New Smyrna Beach, or take a hike at the Tiger Bay State Forest. The Gemini Springs Park is also a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic, as it offers scenic views of the springs and wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try skydiving at the Skydive DeLand.
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, Volusia County has a rich history that spans from the Native American settlements to the Spanish explorers and the Civil War. You can visit the Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park, which features the ruins of a sugar mill and a mansion from the 1800s. The DeBary Hall Historic Site is another interesting destination, as it showcases the life of a wealthy family in the 19th century. The Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park is also worth a visit, as it offers a glimpse into the history of the sugar industry in Florida.
Family-Friendly Activities
Volusia County is a great place to visit with your family, as it offers many activities that are fun for all ages. You can visit the Daytona Lagoon Waterpark, which features water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. The Congo River Golf and Exploration Co. is also a fun destination, as it offers mini-golf, arcade games, and a gem mining experience. The Marine Discovery Center is another great place to learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences, Volusia County has plenty of options. You can visit the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, which is a community of psychics and mediums that offers spiritual readings and healing sessions. The Blue Spring State Park is also a great destination, as it offers a chance to see manatees in their natural habitat. The DeLand Ghost Tour is another interesting experience, as it takes you on a walking tour of the haunted sites in the town.
Natural Wonders
Volusia County is home to many natural wonders that are worth exploring. You can visit the Tomoka State Park, which offers scenic views of the Tomoka River and the natural habitat of the local wildlife. The Spruce Creek Preserve is also a great destination, as it offers a chance to see bald eagles, ospreys, and other rare birds. The Blue Cypress Lake is another natural wonder that is known for its crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation.
Vibrant Nightlife
Volusia County has a vibrant nightlife that offers something for everyone. You can visit the Ocean Deck Beach Club in Daytona Beach, which features live music, dancing, and a beachfront bar. The Bank & Blues Club is another great destination, as it offers a chance to see local and national bands in an intimate setting. The Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna Beach is also a popular destination, as it has many bars, restaurants, and shops that stay open late.
Local Markets
Volusia County has many local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and unique souvenirs. You can visit the Daytona Beach Downtown Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday and features local vendors and food trucks. The DeLand Artisan Alley Farmers Market is another great destination, as it offers a variety of handmade crafts and local produce. The New Smyrna Beach Farmers Market is also worth a visit, as it has many vendors that sell fresh seafood and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Volusia County is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic mountains. You can visit the Daytona Beach, which is famous for its hard-packed sand that you can drive on. The Ormond Beach is another great destination, as it offers a quieter and more secluded atmosphere. The Mount Dora is also a popular destination, as it offers scenic views of the rolling hills and the local wildlife.
Cultural Immersion
Volusia County has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. You can visit the Halifax Historical Museum, which showcases the history of the city of Daytona Beach. The Museum of Art – DeLand is another great destination, as it features a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The African American Museum of the Arts is also worth a visit, as it celebrates the contributions of African American artists to the local community.
Art and Music Scene
Volusia County has a vibrant art and music scene that offers many opportunities to appreciate local talent. You can visit the Peabody Auditorium in Daytona Beach, which hosts many concerts and theatrical performances throughout the year. The Athens Theatre in DeLand is another great destination, as it offers a chance to see local productions and live music. The Hub on Canal in New Smyrna Beach is also worth a visit, as it features a gallery, studio space, and a cafรฉ.
Walking Tours
Volusia County is a great place to explore on foot, as it offers many walking tours that showcase the local culture and history. You can take a guided tour of the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, which features a collection of Victorian artifacts and architectural marvels. The Daytona Beach Walking Tour is another great option, as it takes you on a tour of the city’s landmarks and historic sites. The New Smyrna Beach Historic District is also worth a visit, as it features many buildings from the 1800s.
Architectural Marvels
Volusia County has many architectural marvels that are worth exploring. You can visit the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, which is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture and interior design. The Rockefeller Gardens in Ormond Beach is another great destination, as it features a collection of sculptures and fountains that represent the local history and culture. The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine is also worth a visit, as it showcases the Gilded Age architecture and decorative arts.
Historical Sites
Volusia County has many historical sites that offer a glimpse into the local history and culture. You can visit the DeLand House Museum, which features a collection of artifacts and photographs from the 19th and 20th centuries. The Mary McLeod Bethune Home and Gravesite is another interesting destination, as it showcases the life of the civil rights leader