Discover What’s New in Daytona Beach This Summer
Daytona Beach is turning up the heat this summer with an exciting lineup of new attractions, family-friendly activities, and refreshed experiences. Whether you’re a returning fan of the area or planning your very first visit, the World’s Most Famous Beach is ready to surprise you with brand-new reasons to explore. From immersive rainforest exhibits to NASCAR’s thrilling return, here’s your guide to what’s new in Daytona Beach for summer 2025.
🌿 The Rainforest Opens at Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure
Animal lovers rejoice! The highly anticipated rainforest expansion of the Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure debuts this summer. This lush new habitat will showcase vibrant species like toucans, sloths, tamarins, and otters. The 55,000-square-foot aquarium — which opened in 2024 — already features over 50 exhibits, including a 110,000-gallon shark tank and an interactive stingray touch pool. Check their website and social media for the exact opening date.
🖼️ New Art and History Exhibits at MOAS
The Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS) welcomes two fresh exhibits:
- Shoosty Bugs Exhibit – A whimsical, genre-blending collection by artist Stephen Shooster (aka Shoosty).
- It’s a Ship Show – At the Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, this exhibit sails through Florida’s maritime legacy.
Both exhibits are open now through January 4, 2026.
🇺🇸 Veterans Memorial Plaza Now Open
A new site of reflection and remembrance has opened on the northwest corner of the Tom Staed Veterans Memorial Bridge. The Veterans Memorial Plaza honors fallen service members with six military flags, a WWI memorial, and a six-foot fire monument bearing the names of Volusia County residents who made the ultimate sacrifice.
🐢 Marine Science Center Reopens June 23
After a $4.2 million renovation, the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet reopens on June 23 with updated marine exhibits and expanded educational spaces, providing an enriched experience for curious minds of all ages.
🏁 Coke Zero Sugar 400 Returns August 23
NASCAR fans, start your engines — the Coke Zero Sugar 400 returns to Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, August 23, as the final regular-season race. This 400-mile showdown is drivers’ last chance to secure a playoff spot and always promises edge-of-your-seat action under the lights.
🚗 Upgraded Beach Ramp and Iconic Sign Reopen
The International Speedway Blvd. ramp at A1A is back in action after a major upgrade. Now with three lanes, beachgoers can access the sand more smoothly. Adjacent to the ramp, Sam’s Coal Fired Pizza has reopened for a tasty bite with a view of the iconic “World’s Most Famous Beach” sign.
⚾ Jackie Robinson Ballpark Gets Major Enhancements
Catch a game with the Daytona Tortugas and experience the upgraded Jackie Robinson Ballpark, which now features 1,300 new seats, a centerfield batter’s eye, upgraded sound system, and new foul poles — all part of a multi-phase renovation honoring baseball history and improving the fan experience.
🏨 New Hotel: Ambros Daytona Opens
Looking for a stylish stay? The newly opened Ambros Daytona in Daytona Beach Shores is a chic 50-room boutique hotel ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers. With modern rooms — half featuring kitchenettes — and a relaxed upscale vibe, it’s a great base for beachside adventures.
🦞 Mystic Lobster Debuts at Hilton Daytona Beach
Seafood lovers will want to stop by the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, where Mystic Lobster, a new fast-casual concept, is now serving up lobster rolls, tacos, crab cakes, and more coastal delights.
🏖️ Plan Your Daytona Beach Adventure Today
With 23 miles of white-sand beaches, exhilarating motorsports, vibrant cultural experiences, and new attractions opening this summer, Daytona Beach is more than just a beach — it’s a destination of discovery.
To learn more or book your next unforgettable trip, visit DaytonaBeach.com.
So until the next blog, podcast or livestream, keep making memories.
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