When it comes to winter getaways, you’d be hard-pressed to find a destination better suited for the job than Daytona Beach — there’s a reason so many “snowbirds” head south for the season! A 70-degree January day is more the norm than the exception here. Mild temperatures make morning beach strolls, afternoon kayaking and outdoor exploration both possible and pleasurable. Even though the area is known for its agreeable, warm climate all year round, there are still plenty of ways to have fun should a cold snap or rainy day strike. Winter in Daytona Beach provides a long list of ways to make the most of your vacation — rain or shine. Keep reading for nine great ways to spend a winter day in Daytona Beach. 

1) Meander Through Art Galleries

A couple meanders in a Daytona Beach museum

You could spend hours wandering through locally owned art galleries in Ormond Beach. Better yet, make your own, one-of-a-kind souvenir out of painted pottery at Whim Wham Art Studio. Or, view local and regional contemporary artwork as well as works by race artists from across the country at Gallery 500, which is located in the heart of ONE DAYTONA, the premier retail, dining and entertainment destination.  

2) Dive Headfirst Into Adventure

Daytona Beach may be surrounded by water, but you and the kids can catch some major air at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. With over 16,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines, your family will be jumping for joy the rest of your trip.

3) Shop ’til You Drop!

Two woman stroll while shopping at an outdoor outlet

Head to the Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach in the city's historic downtown area between Bay Street and Orange Avenue and enjoy perusing dozens of locally-owned stores. Or, shop for great deals at Tanger Outlets Daytona, ONE DAYTONA, Volusia Mall and more! 

4) Get Hands-On With Your Adventure

A family enjoys seeing and petting sting rays at the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet

Vacation crew members of all ages will enjoy the touch tanks, educational demonstrations and sea turtle rehabilitation unit at the Marine Science Center. Located in Ponce Inlet, it’s a fun place to explore local environmental and conservation efforts. You might even learn a thing or two on your vacation!

5) Put Your Thinking Cap On

A family enjoys friendly competition at a Museum of Arts & Sciences Children's Museum exhibit

An entire day (or more!) could be spent soaking in the contents of the Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts & Sciences.  The area’s primary art, science and history museum features a number of nationally-applauded collections, a state-of-the-art planetarium and a popular Children’s Museum. There’s truly something here for the whole family.

6) Relax and Unwind

Winter getaways should be about relaxing the mind AND the body. Luckily, the Daytona Beach area has a wide variety of spa offerings ranging from resort-style spas to individually-owned operations. A few of the available options include Bliss Wellness Spa in Ormond Beach, Remedy Spa at Pelican Bay and Rock Spa & Salon in Daytona Beach, The Spa at Riverview in New Smyrna Beach and The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach Shores.

7) Catch Some Live Performances

Aerial view of event attendees at the Ocean Center

Daytona Beach has many theaters, playhouses and venues that allow music and art to transport you far, far away. Check out the line-ups at Peabody Auditorium, Athens Theatre and the Ocean Center to get an idea of all the indoor entertainment the area has to offer.

8) Horse Around With Your Family

People aren’t the only beings who like to head south for the winter. Spring Garden Ranch Training Center in nearby DeLeon Springs offers a fun and unique way to spend a day. This standard-bred winter training facility was established in 1949 and features training each morning Monday through Friday with qualifying harness races each spring. Tours are also available.

9) Witness History Unfold at Speedweeks

A couple takes a selfie at Daytona International Speedway

Go see legends in action at the biggest, most prestigious event in NASCAR during Speedweeks - the DAYTONA 500! This year, Speedweeks takes place February 15-18, 2024, ending with the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500. Enjoy all the action, adventure and racing you can handle. 

Whether you’re riding bikes with the family on 23 miles of white-sand beaches or enjoying an intimate date night at a local wine bar, Daytona Beach has a million ways to make your winter day brighter. 

What are you waiting for? Plan your getaway today! Download our free official destination guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.