The highlight of the year of many college students, Daytona Beach is one of the nation’s top spring break destinations. Fast and the Furious fans aside, the water sports draw other adventure seekers, while the downtown restaurants and bars open their doors for all-night parties, contests, and celebrity events. When you’re not busy jet skiing or taking your turn at the drinking contest, you can turn to the water’s edge for some lounging on the beach. Here’s where you need to make a stop for spring break 2007:
Daytona Beach is a haven for car racing fans-the 2.5 mile stretch on the Daytona International Speedway is the stage for some of the country’s finest sports cars and motorcycles. You’ll have to fight your way through the crowds of nightclub revelers along Atlantic Avenue, in addition to the groups of windsurfers, water skiers, and tourists.
2007 highlights include:
- Official Bike Week from March 2-11, 2007, as well as the 28th Annual Daytona Motorcycle Swapmet.
- Destination Daytona offering live music, vendors, and drink specials all day along Ormond Beach.
- Honda sponsors the Daytona Supercross on March 10, a serious event for all racers at heart.
- Spring Break Nationsls, along with the Spring Car Show & Swap on March 23-25, 2007, both sponsored by the Daytona Racing District.
The Daytona Beach Boardwalk is right behind Ocean Avenue, and here you’ll find everything from thrill rides, go-kart racing, and a smattering of restaurants. Enjoy some shopping and boutique galleries on the Main Street Pier, and pick up a souvenir or two at the local gift shop. The boardwalk lights up with live music and entertainment at night, and is a top spot to just kick back and catch the racing events of the evening.
Daytona USA is the highlight for motor sport enthusiasts, offering a 50,000 square foot facility filled with interactive exhibits, galleries, video broadcasts of race car history. Venture into the NASCAR Winston Cup stock part pit stop and you’ll get a chance to experience firsthand the life of a race car driver.
The Bandshell and Plaza Hotel will be the highlight of your spring break party itinerary. From Hawaiian Tropic to MTV, these are the places to get a ‘Gold Party Card,’ allowing access to all the clubs without a cover charge. Corporate sponsored giveaways and contests throughout the night, along with drink specials and packages will keep you partying into the early morning hours!
After you’ve worked up a hearty appetite, head to one of the area’s top restaurants for some fresh seafood, grilled specialties, or an exceptional brunch. The Chart House is a popular seafood restaurant with riverfront views and a relaxing atmosphere. Located on 1100 Marina Point Drive, the restaurant features one of the largest seafood selections in the area. For a classic ‘surf and turf’ dinner, Gene’s Steak House on 3674 W International Speedway Boulevard welcomes you with open arms. Enjoy candlelight dining for a special night, or browse the lunch menu for a faster meal off of the day’s grill. Crabby Joe’s on 3701 S. Atlantic Avenue will leave you everything but crabby. Enjoy grouper, fish chowder, or a classic fish sandwich. The casual and relaxed atmosphere is a great place to take a time out from the pier.
Daytona Beach isn’t for the mellow spring break lounging on the beach. Although that’s always an option, visiting during spring break season guarantees crowds galore across the eastern Atlantic shores. Since the early 1800s, Daytona Beach has attracted thousands of visitors to populate the sandy beaches and roadways. Celebrity-endorsed events, along with race car contests, promotions, and all-night parties keep the area buzzing with excitement. Enjoy your spring break in the nation’s motor sport mecca, and get a taste of life in the fast lane!
