July 2011
Our area is one of the world’s most famous travel destinations. Each year, millions of people make their way to the region and enjoy the multitude of experiences we have to offer. With so many attractions and activities to take in, we wanted to give you the ultimate insider’s guide for your local summer staycation. Some are expected, others off the beaten path, but we promise that each of these days will remind you that we are lucky to call this home. In random order, here are our picks for 10 days you
must do this summer!
10 classic Days Of Summer 55
10 Classic Days Of Summer
day
the need4 speed
We live in the world center of racing and most of us take that for granted. For almost a century the worlds rich and famous have traveled to our community to fill their need for speed so why not follow their lead? Here are our favorite picks for a speedy summer day.
what to
see&do Ever wanted to know what it is like to get behind the wheel of a NASCAR race car? Imagine 600 horses ready to dominate the world famous 2.5 mile tri-oval track with its 31 degree banks and you with the pedal to the metal. The Richard Petty Driving Experience is one of the coolest must do’s in the area and if you thought driving in a giant circle wasn’t fun – tell us what you think after this crazy ride. One of the most expensive items on our summer list, trust us, it’s worth every penny. If getting behind the wheel is a little too real, take one of the new Speedway Track Tours. As locals we all take that giant metal structure for granted, but have you ever actually been there? Go behind the scenes and discover why Daytona is the World Center of Racing on the AllAccess or VIP tours available. Travel down Gatorade Victory Lane, Pit Road, the famous infield or President’s Row. Take our word for it, it is a must see. Decked out in stock car racing memorabilia, hoods and cardboard cut-outs of your favorite drivers, the Brickyard Bar and Grill is home to the best Floridian burger. If it has never been declared, we just did – it‘s perfect with perfect fries and the perfect pickle. This Daytona Beach institution is the required pit-stop for any day at the track, and a chat with colorful owner Renny Miles is required conversation at this ultimate driver’s diner. Tables are scarce, wait for one.
56
Photo courtesy of International Speedway Corp.
July 2011
DISCOVER DELAND Henry A. DeLand envisioned a city full of culture, education and natural beauty when he laid the foundation for the city. Today, that vision is a reality in one of the area’s most vibrant and dynamic destinations within the destination. We love everything about this town so we encourage you to take a day to discover everything that’s happening in DeLand.
what to
see&do Skydive. Yep, climb up in a plane to 14,000 feet, count to three and then jump. At 120 mph and a minute of free falling, it’s a summer day you will never forget. Skydive DeLand is one of the world’s premiere centers where the extreme sport was developed. Everyone from beginners to experienced jumpers can enjoy the thrill of flying over DeLand and what a flight it is.
It’s an experience to drink in DeLand. Hopping from fabulous bar to more fabulous bar makes for an amazing night. At The Abby we check out over 180 beers by the bottle, live music and fantastic wine flights. The Elusive Grape is a definite stop with over 500 wines to choose from and an amazing collection of artisan cheeses. For an eclectic experience, one of our favorites is The Nest with their furniture, gifts and spectacular sangria.
Quickly becoming one of the region’s culinary centers, there are a collection of great eats to be found. We love Chef Hari at Cress and Chef Mike at Tomasita’s Cuban Bistro but our favorite new find is De La Vega’s gourmet Mexican cuisine by Chef Nora. No matter what you choose, nearly everything on the menu is amazing.
Stroll down one of Florida’s best Main Street areas and indulge in upscale consignment shopping, fun eats, museums, and unique boutiques. For a good time for the whole family, go to Tropical Nights on July 15th from 6-9PM as the tropically-themed party takes to the streets of Downtown. Insider’s tip, check out a new event every fourth Friday as the Artesian Alley and Art Walk comes to life with local artists, live music and authentic DeLand atmosphere. Always check the schedule for the Athens Theater and Stetson University’s Elizabeth Hall where great performances can be caught.
57
10 Classic Days Of Summer
Playing In Ponce Many of us think of Ponce Inlet as a sleepy little bedroom community with a giant beacon of tourism at the center. Some residents would like to agree with you, but we just love playing in Ponce. Here are our favorite things to do at the tip of the peninsula.
see&do Our iconic landmark, the Ponce Inlet Light house is Florida’s tallest and the second largest in the nation. One of the most preserved lighthouses in the nation, it’s an incredible historic site visited by thousands each year. If you’ve never done it, climbing the 194 steps to the top is a given, but make sure to visit the Ayres Davies Lens Exhibit Building for the finest collection of lenses in the world. While in the area, you must check out the Marine Science Center. Learn about local water life, play with the stingrays and meet birds from the SeaBird Rehabilitation Sanctuary. You can’t go wrong when the formula is fresh seafood, inlet views, cool drinks and plenty of fun. From Inlet Harbor to Racing’s North Turn odds are you will enjoy yourself. Our picks? Down the Hatch Seafood Company for a slightly more upscale experience and oddly enough Jerry’s Pizza. Yep, pizza. In our view, that place has the best pizza in all of East Central Florida. Don’t take our word for it – check them out.
58
Spring Hopping
July 2011
West Volusia is home to some of the most beautiful natural springs in the state. Thousands of acres of park land is open for exploration of these natural pools of water. Camping, hiking and historical sites abound at these exceptional eco sites.
All of the springs are stunning, but if you have to pick one, see Blue Springs State Park. Perhaps one of the best places for eco-tourism in the state, it’s the largest natural spring along the St. Johns River. Swim, snorkel or dive in the spring’s clear and always warm water, take advantage of the many hiking trails and check out The Thursby house, built in 1872 which remains on the site and open for tours. Grab a bike and check out the new Springto-Spring trail. This 26 mile stretch from Gemini Springs to DeLeon Springs is the coolest way to make a day of spring hopping. Still under construction in phases, the trail is open for exploration. .
Start your springs day with breakfast at The Old Spanish Sugar Mill. Since 1961 this unique restaurant has been serving raw pancake batter to patrons who flip their own pancakes at any griddle equipped table with a vast array of fresh mix-ins. Go early, be prepared to wait. Well worth it.
59
10 Classic Days Of Summer
see&do
A Day
o f h i s t o ry The history of our community is part of what makes us so special. More and more, people are visiting our area for our historical sites and rich heritage. Here are our picks on entertainingly educational places to visit.
60
Some of the historical sites across the region. We suggest a historic tour from West to Northeast. Start at DeBary Hall, the 1871 home of Fredrick DeBary, which has been beautifully restored. Head north to DeLand and visit the Volusia County historic Courthouse and check out the Legendary Florida collection by artist Jackson Walker. Head east and tour the newly restored Lilian Place, the oldest beachside home in Daytona Beach. Finally, end the day at the Rockefeller winter home, The Casements which has been persevered as it was when the gilded era mogul wintered locally. Make a stop at the Halifax Historical Museum in Downtown Daytona Beach. Filled with artifacts dating back from 5,000 B.C.E., photos and a treasure trove of local lore. The best part of the visit? A chat with museum director and local personality, Fayne Lavelle. If she doesn’t know the answer show knows where to find it.
For historic e eats, we absolutely love The Cellar in Downtown Daytona Beach. Housed in the home of President Warren G. Harding, it is an elegant gourmet experience. But since you are in Ormond, check out the new Rose Villa, an FV favorite for their fantastic food and impeccable renovation of the late 1800’s hotel. Gotta see this place.
July 2011
A Day
On The Water Whether you own a boat or not, you have to take a day and hit the waterways. From the river to the inlet and out into the open Atlantic, this is one summer activity that is well within your reach and must be on your list. Here’s how we’re hitting the waves this summer.
see&do There are two fantastic ways to get out on the water in grand style this summer. If you head south, head down to the tip of Ponce to Fun Cat Sailing where you can board James Taylor’s (yes, the James Taylor) gorgeous 50’ Arabella catamaran. Take a 3-hour cruise along the inlet and into the Atlantic with complimentary wine, beer and snacks for you and your friends. In the northern region, we love the Sundance Yacht at the Hammock Beach Resort. The 117’ luxury mega cruiser departs for Sunday Brunch and sunset cocktail cruises. Across the street from the lighthouse is a full-service water sports company ready to take you on adventures in and around the Inlet. If the lighthouse wasn’t tall enough, fly over 2,000 ft in the air with Daytona Parasailing and take in the most breathtaking views of our area. You just have to see this.
For the most authentic seafood experience, we love two places. Check out Boondocks where catfish swim in the marina while you’re eating. We recommend eating on the outside deck during sunset, but even the priceless view is no competition for the awesome tasting seafood and desserts. Also a must is DJ’s Deck, under the Dunlawton Bridge in Daytona Beach Shores. With the best crab cake sandwich we could find, it‘s a must stop from the boat up the inlet.
61
10 Classic Days Of Summer
Wow What a
Beach
The number one tourist attraction in our area, the wide shores of our region make them a draw for millions of visitors from around the world. With almost 50 beach parks in Volusia & Flagler, which beach will you spend your summer at? When we asked the locals to tell us what their favorite beaches were, here is how they responded.
62
see&do Head to the beach this summer. Whether you want to drive there (and on it) or relax in a traffic free zone, there are plenty of beach parks and amenities for every type of beachgoer. Here are your top picks for our area’s best beaches 5. Daytona Beach, Breakers Park 4.Washington Oaks Gardens State Park 3. Old Salt Park, Palm Coast 2. New Smyrna Dunes Beach 1. Lighthouse Point Park, Ponce Inlet
After a long morning at the beach, grab lunch where the locals have been dining for over 40 years – The Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club. Right in the heart of Daytona Beach, the Deck invites you to kick back in the Caribbean atmosphere and enjoy the tropical breezes and island music. Grab a killer fish sandwich or anything covered in their special Rasta Sauce! (one of our favorite sauces on the beach) There is always a party downstairs on the beach level so if you’re looking for a slightly more upscale atmosphere, head upstairs for great food and fantastic views.
July 2011
Culture Shock Ah the arts! There are those that would claim that our area is void of any cultural resources. Well think again because we found more places than you can visit in one day. With world-class museums, performing arts organizations and venues, there is an incredible collection of cultural organizations you must check out. Are you ready for some culture shock?
see&do
A really unique experience is the new Cinematique of Daytona in Downtown. Come check out a great indy flick and have wine, beer and fab food delivered fresh to your table from Ivy Lane Bistro next door. An awesome and artsy night out on the town, we love this idea.
Take the time to visit the new Helen B. Roberson Visible Storage Facility at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach. The new 4,400 addition to the museum contains an incredible collection of items that were not previously on exhibit. Of course, while there see the Cuban Collection, Planetarium and the super cool interactive Children’s Museum among other incredible assets of our regional museum. In DeBary visit the Gateway Center for the Arts, in DeLand the world-class museum of Florida Art and in Ormond check out the Memorial Art Museum and Gardens – all with summer exhibits now open.
Check out the public art collection on display at the Ocean Center. A dynamic collection of contemporary works, it adorns the 100,000 square foot gallery in the expansive lobbies of the facility. Insider’s Tip: Take the time this summer to become a member of a local arts organization. The arts are an important part of our local community and have been hard hit by recent economic times. Becoming a member now will ensure that when season kick’s off again, you will be first in line with the hottest tickets, invitations to the best openings and access to all kinds of discounts. 63
10 Classic Days Of Summer
A Day In
Flagler
Some of the best places to dine are located in Flagler Beach, FL. Our pick? The Flagler Fish Company has local fresh seafood on the menu as well as for sale at the counter. Their fish tacos are scrumptious and they have a lobster bisque that’s out of this world, but we opt for the seared ahi tuna, it’s (insert adjectives).
If you must… Congo River Mini Golf – Come on…who doesn’t want to traverse through the perils of the Congo River while playing miniature golf with the whole family? Our favorite hole is the one in the cave…don’t forget to feed the alligators! Ferris wheel at Boardwalk – It’s big and iconic and even we have to admit that a tinge of nostalgia hits us whenever we see the Ferris wheel on the Boardwalk. So just five in, buy some cotton candy and wait for the moment when you’re at the top overlooking the beautiful beach we’re famous for. Just don’t go at night, currently the Ferris wheel isn’t lit at night in order to make sea turtles comfortable. Daytona Lagoon – For a fun filled day with the whole family, we head to Daytona Lagoon. Dodge attackers while playing laser tag, test your need for speed at the Go-Kart track, play in the huge arcade or hit the water park – it’s all up to you. With truly something for everyone, this place will put smiles on your entire group’s faces. There’s even a Tiki Bar ideal for an afternoon pick me up.
64
Take yourself on a salt water paddling excursion. Discover birds, manatees, dolphins, otters and other natural Florida wildlife on your own or on a guided eco-tour of nearby creeks and estuaries. Rent a kayak from Ripple Effect Eco-Tours or Tropical Kayaks of Palm Coast and discover the natural beauty that highlights Florida’s splendor in a unique way. If you’d rather see Flagler’s natural beauty in a less physical way, we suggest you explore one of the over 40 parks and preserves in the area. At the top of your must-see list should be the Washington Oaks State Park on the Intracoastal. Known for its breathtaking gardens and deep rooted history, visitors can step back in time at Princess Palace Preserve and see the oldest standing structure in Flagler County.