What Makes It Guide-Worthy: Cheering from the bleachers at the Daytona 500 is an exhilarating affair. You’re in the heart of the action at NASCAR’s crown jewel, just feet away from some of the world’s greatest drivers as they zoom by at speeds up to 200 mph. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or a newbie excited to hear the engines roar, you’ll never forget the adrenaline-fueled thrill of this American motorsport spectacle.
When to Book: With race day attendance that can reach upward of 175,000, the Daytona 500 draws massive crowds to the region. Start planning at least six to eight months before Daytona Speedweeks for the best hotel availability and rates. Many local hotels offer travel packages that include a hotel stay, tickets and various premium add-ons. These special offers typically require a deposit made up to nine months in advance. Tickets for the Daytona 500 and many other races during Speedweeks go on sale in late summer, with prized sections, such as the mid-stretch, start/finish line and covered seats, selling out first.
Must-See & Do: Known as Florida's Fun Coast region, Daytona Beach is home to a charming, retro-Americana beach town feel. The region encompasses 23 miles of iconic Atlantic Ocean beachfront, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. Here are some of the best things to do during Speedweeks.
Daytona’s Fan Frenzy: There’s a lot of fun to be had beyond the grandstands at the Daytona 500. Open for several days leading up to and during the big race weekend, the FanZone Experience is the go-to spot for NASCAR lovers. The highlight here is the opportunity to walk on the track and sign at the start/finish line, a treasured fan experience that has been offered for the past two decades. The FanZone is home to driver meet-and-greets, new and vintage racecars on display, live music performances and cutting-edge racing simulators. It’s a festive spirit here as the energy and excitement build for the big race.
Daytona’s Watering Holes: Every February, Daytona is transformed into a glorious mayhem of motorsports frenzy. Don’t miss out on favorite local hangouts like Boot Hill Saloon, one of the most famous biker bars in the country, Main Street Station for great live music, and the firecracker shrimp at Riverside Johnny's.
Main Street Daytona: A world-class destination for motorsports lovers, Main Street Daytona transforms into an electric hub of the sport. Arrive at night for a spectacle of custom muscle cars, decked-out motorcycles and just about every other type of motor vehicle imaginable. Live music pours onto the streets from lively bars and restaurants as a quirky cavalcade of fire breathers, acrobats, balloon twisters and body-painted artists entertain the crowds.
Where to Stay: Stay close to the action and you’ll have easy access to the many events throughout the week. Here are three top hotel picks, best for attending the Daytona 500.
Premier: The Shores Resort & Spa, Independent: A top destination for the Daytona races, The Shores Resort is an independently owned beachfront resort set on the quieter southern stretch of the beach. Top amenities here include nightly s’mores, a heated pool and hot tub overlooking the beach, and a full-service spa.
Mid-Range: Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, Hilton: A prime location just five miles from Daytona International Speedway, Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort is situated right in the heart of the famed beach. The sprawling resort offers plenty of things to do before and after race days, with two outdoor pools, a whirlpool and beach volleyball, as well as surfing and biking.
Budget-Friendly: Hampton Inn Daytona Beach/Beachfront, Hilton: Hampton Inn Daytona Beach/Beachfront is the premier value stay in the region, offering a choice beachfront location and easy access to the area's race events. Your stay includes a complimentary hot breakfast daily (think eggs, waffles, hash browns and fruit) and the hotel’s heated outdoor pool with ocean views.
SideQuest: An easy add-on before or after any of the Speedweeks races, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America honors the most significant figures of motorsports. Learn about the fascinating history of racing and the legends who pushed boundaries and broke records in just about every form of motorsport, from drag racing and stock cars to motorcycles and powerboats.
