Map Of Volusia County
Volusia County is a beautiful destination located in Central Florida, known for its picturesque beaches, natural wonders, and vibrant culture. This comprehensive guide will help you explore all the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the county.
Top Attractions
Volusia County has a plethora of attractions to offer. Daytona Beach is one of the most popular attractions in the area, with its stunning coastline and exciting nightlife. Another popular attraction is the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, which is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and offers stunning views of the surrounding areas. The Marine Science Center is a great family-friendly attraction that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs about marine life.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for something off the beaten path, there are several hidden gems in Volusia County. The Sugar Mill Ruins is a unique historical site that offers a glimpse into the area’s past. The DeLeon Springs State Park is a serene natural area that offers hiking trails, swimming, and picnic areas. The Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is another hidden gem that offers beautiful gardens and a historical museum.
Food Scene
Volusia County offers a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. For seafood lovers, the Crabby Joe’s Deck and Grill offers delicious fresh seafood with stunning ocean views. The Dancing Avocado Kitchen is a popular spot for healthy and organic food options. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Chart House Restaurant offers upscale seafood and steak dishes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting Volusia County can be affordable if you know where to look. The county has several free attractions, including the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, and the Beach Street Historic District. The county also offers several affordable accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. For those looking to save on food costs, visiting local markets and preparing meals at home is a great option.
Outdoor Adventures
Volusia County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning beaches, natural parks, and waterways. The Canaveral National Seashore is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, with its unspoiled beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife. The Blue Spring State Park is another popular outdoor destination that offers swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The county also offers several water sports activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
Historical Landmarks
Volusia County has a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks in the area that offer a glimpse into the past. The Stetson Mansion is a stunning historical site that offers tours of the mansion and gardens. The DeBary Hall Historic Site is another popular destination that offers tours of the historic mansion and gardens. The Mary McLeod Bethune Home and Gravesite is another important historical landmark that offers insight into the life of the famous civil rights leader.
Family-Friendly Activities
Volusia County is a great destination for families, with several family-friendly activities and attractions. The Daytona Lagoon Waterpark offers thrilling water slides and pools for all ages. The Daytona International Speedway offers tours of the track and museum exhibits. The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is another popular destination that offers animal encounters and educational programs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for something unique and different, Volusia County offers several off-the-beaten-path experiences. The Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp is a unique destination that offers psychic readings and spiritual healing sessions. The Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail is a picturesque drive that offers stunning views of the area’s natural beauty. The Ponce Preserve is another hidden gem that offers hiking trails and beautiful views of the Halifax River.
Natural Wonders
Volusia County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Tomoka State Park is a beautiful natural area that offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating activities. The Spruce Creek Preserve is another popular destination that offers hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The Bulow Creek State Park is another natural wonder that offers hiking trails and camping options.
Vibrant Nightlife
Volusia County offers a vibrant nightlife scene with several bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Ocean Deck Beach Club is a popular spot for live music and drinks with stunning ocean views. The Bank and Blues Club is another popular destination that offers live music and a sophisticated atmosphere. The Mai Tai Bar is a fun and lively tiki bar that offers tropical drinks and live entertainment.
Local Markets
Volusia County has several local markets that offer fresh produce, crafts, and local goods. The Downtown Farmers Market is a popular destination that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The New Smyrna Beach Farmers Market is another popular market that offers fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, and artisanal products. The DeLand Indie Market is a fun and unique market that features local artists, designers, and makers.
Beaches and Mountains
Volusia County is known for its stunning beaches, but it also offers beautiful mountain areas to explore. The Mount Dora area is a picturesque mountain town that offers stunning views of the surrounding areas. The Lake County area is another mountain destination that offers hiking trails and outdoor activities. The county’s beaches, including Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, offer stunning ocean views and a variety of water sports activities.
Cultural Immersion
Volusia County offers a rich cultural scene that celebrates the area’s history and diversity. The African-American Museum of the Arts is a popular destination that showcases African-American art and culture. The Museum of Florida Art and Culture is another popular destination that offers exhibitions and educational programs about the state’s art and culture. The Halifax Historical Museum is another important destination that showcases the area’s history and culture.
Art and Music Scene
Volusia County has a vibrant art and music scene that offers something for everyone. The Peabody Auditorium is a popular destination that features concerts, plays, and other live performances. The Hub on Canal is another popular destination that showcases local artists and offers art classes and workshops. The Athens Theatre is a beautiful historical site that offers plays, musicals, and other live performances.
Walking Tours
Volusia County offers several walking tours that offer a unique perspective on the area’s history and culture. The Ormond Beach Historical Walking Tour is a popular tour that takes visitors through the area’s historic district. The DeLand Historic District Walking Tour is another popular tour that takes visitors through the area’s historic downtown. The Canal Street Historic District Walking Tour is another popular tour that showcases the area’s historic architecture and landmarks.
Architectural Marvels
Volusia County has several architectural marvels that are worth exploring. The Stetson University Campus is a beautiful campus that features stunning architecture and gardens. The Bethune-Cookman University Campus is another important destination that features a mix of historical and modern architecture. The DeBary Hall Historic Site is another important architectural landmark that offers tours of the historic mansion and gardens.
Historical Sites
Volusia County has a rich history, and there are several historical sites in the area that offer a glimpse into the past. The Bulow Plantation Ruins is a unique historical site that offers a glimpse into the area’s past. The Fort Matanzas National Monument is another important historical site that offers tours and exhibits about the area’s history. The Old Fort Park and Museum is another important destination that showcases the area’s military history.
Biking Routes
Volusia County offers several biking routes that offer stunning views of the area’s natural beauty and historic landmarks. The East Central Regional Rail Trail is a popular biking route that takes visitors through several small towns and natural areas. The River to Sea Loop is another popular biking route that offers stunning ocean views and historic landmarks. The Spring-to-Spring Trail is another popular biking route that takes visitors through several natural areas and parks.
Wellness Retreats
Volusia County offers several wellness retreats that offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The Spa at Riverview is a popular destination that offers massages, facials, and other spa treatments. The Salt Cave of Port Orange is another popular destination that offers salt therapy sessions and other wellness treatments. The Lotus Boutique and Wellness Center is another popular destination that offers yoga classes, massage therapy, and other wellness services.
Adventure Sports
Volusia County offers several adventure sports activities for adrenaline junkies. The Skydive DeLand is a popular destination that offers skydiving experiences for all levels. The Daytona International Speedway offers driving experiences and tours of the track. The Halifax River Yacht Club offers sailing and boating activities for all levels.
With this comprehensive travel guide, you are ready to explore all the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Volusia County. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Volusia County has something for everyone.