August 20, 2011
Discover Gay Florida :: Daytona Beach
Kevin Mark Kline READ TIME: 3 MIN.
The famous (or infamous, depends on your experiences) Daytona Beach isn't just a place for bikers (although if you are into that, you will be very pleased). It also offers 23 miles of sandy white beaches, historic sites, a couple of gay bars, a fantastic dining scene and tons of adventure!
The gay bars in Daytona include The Streamline (140 S. Atlantic (A1A) Ave.) and Savoy Daytona (546 Seabreeze Blvd.). Although they aren't entirely known for having a large gay scene, these bars have an interesting history. The building where the Streamline is was where the NASCAR championship racing formula was invented. Now a gay bar and hotel, it has a chic 1950s feel and hot go-go boys. Savoy Daytona is newer and is a sister club to Savoy in Orlando.
For those who seek adventure, they have a lot to offer. Read on for some recommendations that will get your adrenaline pumping!:
Speed Park Motorsports, Daytona Beach
201 Fentress Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
If you are into the motorsports that Daytona is known for, then you will love this place which has three of the fastest go-kart tracks in the area. They also have a Grand Prix track with a 1,200 foot long serpentine trail and a huge arcade.
Skydive DeLand, De Land
1600 Fliteline Boulevard, De Land, FL 32720
Just outside of Daytona Beach is Skydive De Land! Beginners to experts can enjoy tandem skydiving and fun jumps from their expert team of skydivers.
Haunts of the World's Most Famous Beach Ghost Tour, Daytona Beach
205 Main Street, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
This famous tour is owned and operated by a certified ghost hunter and focuses on education over fear. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you will enjoy this tour that blends science, folklore and history.
Those who enjoy history will also enjoy the Haunts of the World's Most Famous Ghost Tour listed above, plus these sites:
Mary McLeod Bethune Home and Gravesite
640 Dr Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
This national historic landmark was the former home of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, civil rights leader, educator, and founder of Bethune-Cookman College. History lovers will enjoy the many artifacts, citations, plaques, and pictures on display. The gravesite of Dr. Bethune is on site.
Halifax Historical Museum
252 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach, FL 32114-4407
Halifax Historical Museum's permanent exhibit focuses on the history of the greater Daytona Beach area with artifacts dating from 5,000 B.C. The museum is housed in the former 1910 Merchants Bank building.
Those who enjoy art, science and theater won't want to miss these establishments.
Museum of Arts & Science
352 S. Nova Road - Daytona Beach, Florida 32114
Museum of Arts and Sciences, also known as MOAS, is home to over 30,000 objects, making it one of the largest museums in Central Florida. It has the second largest collection of Coca-Cola Memorabilla in the world, has the most complete giant ground sloth skeleton in North America, the largest permanent exhibition of Cuban art outside of Cuba, and hands-on science exhibits for kids.
Peabody Auditorium
600 Auditorium Boulevard Daytona Beach, Florida 32118
The Peabody Auditorium has been around for 60 years and is the place for Broadway shows and symphony orchestra concerts. The stage has been graced by talents like Liza Minelli, Shirley MacLaine, Tony Bennett, James Taylor, Willie Nelson, Jerry Seinfeld and many more.
There is a unique dining scene in Daytona. Seafood is king here, but there are many charming establishments for those who aren't into fish.
Angell & Phelps Cafe
156 South Beach Street in Daytona Beach FL 32114
This charming casual restaurant offers fantastic soups, sandwiches, seafood, pasta, steak and chicken dishes; an extensive wine list and live music. They are also known for their specialty martinis and amazing desserts.
The Cellar Restaurant
220 Magnolia Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
If you like fine dining and Italian food, then The Cellar is the place for you! All dishes are prepared fresh -- even the pasta and desserts are home-made! Housed in the former winter home of President Warren G. Harding, the restaurant is elegant and historic.
All in all, Daytona has something for the adventurous, for beach lovers and for those who are into history. It's the perfect place for a fun, unique vacation!