Daytona’s secret spots: 5 offbeat local experiences for your next adventure

Get to know a different side of Daytona Beach with these hidden gems that go beyond the shore.

Edited by Robin Reetz | November 6, 2025

Discover Daytona’s offbeat adventures and experiences

Daytona Beach is more than sun, sand, and speedways — it’s a city brimming with unexpected discoveries for curious travelers. Beyond the famous shoreline, you’ll find tranquil gardens, living museums, and creative spaces that locals love, but few visitors see. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a dose of local culture, these five hidden gems offer a fresh perspective on Daytona Beach.

5 of Daytona Beach’s best-kept secrets

Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens

Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens

Ponce Preserve

Art League of Daytona Beach

Tuscawilla Park

1. Tranquil trails at Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens

Step into a serene oasis at Ormond Memorial Gardens, where winding nature trails, peaceful fishponds, and a contemplative labyrinth invite quiet reflection. This lush park is also home to rotating art exhibits and memorials honoring veterans, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and creative inspiration. Wander through an oasis of native and exotic plants, discover water features and wildlife viewing, and enjoy a moment of calm away from the bustle of the beach.

Stay nearby at Home2 Suites by Hilton Ormond Beach Oceanfront, where ocean views and easy access to Ormond’s scenic loop make it the ideal base for exploring Daytona Beach’s quieter side.

Explore this hotel

2. Historic ruins at Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens

Uncover Daytona Beach’s past at Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, a botanical wonderland built around the ruins of a nineteenth-century sugar mill. The gardens are dotted with whimsical dinosaur statues — remnants of the old Bongoland theme park — alongside lush plantings and shaded walking paths. It’s a place where history, nature, and nostalgia collide, offering a truly unique experience for explorers of all ages.

Hampton Inn Daytona Shores-Oceanfront is just a short drive from the gardens and steps from the sand, so you can blend adventure with relaxation at a beachfront hotel.

Plan your stay

3. Wild landscapes at Ponce Preserve

Explore Ponce Preserve, a 41-acre (165,921-square meter) park stretching from ocean dunes to lush wetlands — part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Nature lovers can spot rare birds, hike scenic trails, enjoy two nature-themed playgrounds, and climb the Green Mound, an ancient Native American site. The preserve’s mix of habitats makes it a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for those seeking Daytona’s natural side.

For easy access to the preserve and the beach, stay at Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Oceanfront, where oceanfront comfort meets adventure-ready convenience.

Find out more

5. Disc golf and ziplining at Tuscawilla Park

For a dose of outdoor adventure, head to Tuscawilla Park, where you’ll find a top-rated 18-hole disc golf course, zipline courses, playgrounds, picnic areas, volleyball courts, a horseshoe area, and shaded nature trails. It’s a favorite among locals for active afternoons and family fun, offering a playful alternative to the beach.

Stay close to the action at Homewood Suites by Hilton Daytona Beach Speedway-Airport, perfect for travelers who want easy access to Daytona’s hidden gems and the excitement of the famous Daytona International Speedway.

Plan your stay

Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.

Save up to 25% during The Hilton Sale

Whether you’re craving a cozy city break or the thrill of somewhere new, find the perfect holiday stay in top destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and more. Book November 5 through December 15, 2025.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

1/4

Book Now

Explore more in Florida

Rain or shine: Top Fort Lauderdale family adventures

Discover Fort Lauderdale's top indoor and outdoor activities for families and groups, offering flexible options for a variety of ages.

There’s plenty to explore in this sun-filled spring break destination, from an Old-Florida-meets-Caribbean culture to a remote national park and idyllic white-sand beaches.