“The renovation transformed the area into an arena experience,’’ said Booth, “and that was a real game-changer.’’ The family of Bill France, founder of NASCAR, opened the Speedway in 1959 and he had a big vision for the area. One Daytona now includes The Daytona Hotel, a variety of restaurants and shops surrounding a play area for youngsters willing to get wet in the fountains. Daytona is also home for the Tortugas, a minor league baseball team. The ballpark is historic as it opened in 1914, but was renamed the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, after Robinson made his professional baseball debut there in 1946. Jackie went on to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier the following year playing for Branch Rickey’s Brooklyn Dodgers. Another interesting Daytona attraction, Ponce Inlet Watersports offers boat tours to catch glimpses of manatees and dolphins, as well as kayaking, or parasailing for the more adventurous visitors. The Atlantic Ocean provides fishermen a great day on the water and Tomoka State Park is an ecological masterpiece for those into cycling, botanical study, paddling, hiking, boating, or wildlife viewing. The Museum of Arts & Sciences has a diverse collection of art, history and science exhibits. If you are into Pickleball 49 courts will soothe your itch. The USA Pickleball Diamond National Championships were contested here, in 2022. The golf is great in Daytona, but with the Daytona Speedway, beautiful beaches and One Daytona there is plenty to keep you occupied off the golf course, as well. While the dining is excellent at One Daytona, one other area restaurant that’s not to be missed is Rose Villa Southern Table, in Ormond Beach. It was established as a bed and breakfast in 1901, but has evolved into an upscale restaurant serving a wide variety of cuisine with a Southern hospitality atmosphere. In addition to One Daytona, the Speedway itself is welcoming more than motor sports enthusiasts. Soccer matches were played at the racetrack last year and a rock music festival drew a huge crowd this year. The NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, are considering playing several home games at the Speedway, while their stadium undergoes renovation. Michigan Golf Journal
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