By Dana Damato


When the cool winter days transition into spring, it’s hard not to wonder where the time goes. We’re planning week-long vacations somewhere exotic, trying to soak up every minute of vacation before we get back into the swing of our day-to-day schedules. However, in the midst of all the chaos, we tend to forget that we live where millions of people travel to for their vacation every year! I can’t help but wonder, why not plan more weekend staycations? Sure, hopping on a plane to fly some place far away from home is exciting, but let’s be honest, that’s not always realistic. 

When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a staycation in Florida, the options are endless. Whether it be a thrilling theme park or a relaxing beach getaway, the Sunshine State has everything you need and more! If you’re looking to mix a thrill with that ocean breeze, The DAYTONA is your go-to destination for the perfect staycation. Located directly across from the world-famous Daytona International Speedway, The DAYTONA embodies the world of racing with a vibrant signature style. Surrounded by shopping, dining and entertainment, the six-story Marriott Autograph Collection property features 144 custom luxury designed guest rooms, a full-service restaurant and bar, an outdoor bar & terrace, heated swimming pool, outdoor fire pit, meeting space, and more than 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. It’s the perfect escape for travelers seeking a chic and modern escape on Florida’s stunning east coast.

The DAYTONA is the most unique hotel in Daytona for so many reasons.  At just a mile from Daytona Beach International Airport and a short drive from ‘The World’s Most Famous Beach,’ The DAYTONA offers easy accessibility to area attractions, including the Daytona International Speedway, 23 miles of local beaches, boardwalk amusements, museums, outdoor recreation and the ONE DAYTONA dining and retail district.  The hotel offers complimentary airport shuttle service.

The DAYTONA isn’t just any regular hotel though. Yes, it’s in a prime location. Yes, it’s in walking distance of the Daytona International Speedway. However, the hotel is a destination in itself with the race inspired décor that’s displayed from the floors to the ceiling. You don’t have to be a racing fan to appreciate the intricate detail and creativity that makes this hotel unlike any other in the world. There’s a lot to see and you’ll need to put some time aside to see it all! The six-story newly build hotel was designed by Studio 11 Design, with guest rooms and common areas that pay homage to the destination’s unique racing heritage, accents and furnishings inspired by the iconic tri-oval shape of the Speedway, and finishes with clean lines and curved shapes representing the speed of stock cars, sports cars and motorcycles.

The DAYTONA features 144 custom-designed guest rooms, including 31 premium rooms with balconies overlooking ONE DAYTONA’s high energy Victory Circle, and four luxury suites that offer views of the Daytona International Speedway. Featured amenities include: a full-service restaurant and bar, heated swimming pool, a second-floor lobby area called “The Grid” where vintage show cars are on display year-round, an outdoor terrace overlooking ONE DAYTONA where guests can watch live entertainment and Vegas-like synchronized fountain shows, and complimentary shuttle service that transports guests within a 3-mile radius. No need to worry if you’re hoping to get a work out in during your staycation. Fitness options include bicycle rentals, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an on-site Fit Park at ONE DAYTONA.

Getting hungry yet?  You’re in luck because not only are you within walking distance of the many reputable restaurants within ONE DAYTONA, but you also have access within the hotel to Sir Malcolm. Inspired by Sir Malcolm Campbell, this restaurant gets its name from the legendary British racing motorist known for setting various land speed records during Prohibition. The best part is that five of those records happened right here on the track in Daytona. Executive Chef Jason Ward brings his flair to Sir Malcolm with a contemporary menu featuring a whimsical twist on classic American comfort food while paying homage to a bygone era and the area’s iconic racing history. Menu highlights include House-Made Corn Bread with Moonshine Butter, Chili Shrimp Corn Dogs with Miso Mustard, and Chislehurst Roast Chicken. 

What comes after dinner? Cocktails, of course! Technically cocktails are a good idea any time of day (mostly) but The Blue Flame welcomes guests to sit back and relax with a drink. This sleek bar offers 16 custom craft beers on tap and cocktails inspired by the area’s legendary racing history. The property partners with Sugarland’s Shine, the official Moonshine of NASCAR®, to offer a selection of hand-crafted Moonshine cocktails. The atmosphere is so unique and the drinks are so good that you won’t want to go anywhere else. 

When you’re ready to venture out into the unique and popular town of Daytona, you have several options of activities, restaurants, sightseeing and so much more. Spread across 23 miles of white sand beaches on the East Coast of Central Florida, Daytona Beach is known for its boardwalk amusements, arts, culture, racing history, and more. The Daytona International Speedway hosts iconic races including the Daytona 500 and Rolex 24, among others. Additional local attractions include the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, Daytona Lagoon, and Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.

Beaches, racing, dining and so much more all while staying within a couple of hours from home – what can be better than that? The next time you’re looking to get away for the weekend, just remember – you can! You have The DAYTONA within driving distance along with so many exciting attractions and beaches nearby. Or, you can simply enjoy the hotel and all of the exquisite amenities, bars and restaurants available to guests. For more information about the hotel, be sure to check them out online: www.thedaytona.com. We look forward to seeing you there! 

1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

386-323-9777