Hi, I’m John the Dolphin Expert, and if you’re coming to Daytona Beach for Speedweeks, you’re in for a ride. This isn’t just a race weekend. It’s a full-on takeover of the city in the best possible way. The sound, the energy, the fans, the trailers, the buzz in the air, it all feels bigger than life.
Speedweeks 2026 runs February 11 through February 15, with the DAYTONA 500 as the main event on Sunday. If you’re planning your trip right now, keep reading. I’m going to give you the backstory on why this race is legendary, where to stay, where to park your RV, where to eat (including the famous cinnamon roll place), and then I’ll share my favorite “reset button” when you need a break from engines and crowds.
The Daytona 500 first ran in 1959, and it didn’t take long for it to become the crown jewel of the NASCAR season. The early years helped lock in the Daytona 500’s identity as a race where anything can happen. There was even controversy in that first event with an extremely close finish that took time to officially sort out, which only added fuel to the story and the attention.
Over the decades, the Daytona 500 became the race that feels like a season kickoff and a championship moment all at once. It’s not just the speed. It’s the drama of drafting, big packs, late-race moves, and those moments where the lead changes in a blink. Even people who aren’t hardcore racing fans can get pulled in because it’s so easy to feel the intensity in the stands.
Speedweeks didn’t become a thing overnight. It grew naturally because Daytona is built for motorsports, and fans wanted more than one day of racing. The Daytona 500 is the centerpiece, but the days leading up to it started filling with qualifying and other events, giving fans more reasons to arrive early and make it a full vacation.
That’s the heart of Speedweeks. It’s a multi-day celebration where the track becomes the focal point and the whole area feels like it’s in race mode. If you’ve never been, it’s worth doing once just to experience how different Daytona feels during this week.
Speedweeks lodging goes fast, so the earlier you book, the better your choices will be. Here are several well-known options with address and phone number so you can copy and paste into your trip notes.
Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort
100 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 254-8200
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
918 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 947-7300
Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort
422 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 271-7979
The Shores Resort and Spa
2637 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 767-7350
Streamline Hotel
140 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 947-7470
If you’re traveling with kids or older family members, here’s my practical tip: prioritize convenience. Being closer to where you want to spend your time makes everything easier. Less driving, less parking stress, less “where are we going now?” energy.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves having your own space, your own kitchen, and your own chairs outside, Daytona during Speedweeks is very RV-friendly. These are popular spots people use when they want the full race week experience.
International RV Park and Campground
3175 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: (386) 239-0249
Race Track RV Park
330 Innovation Dr, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: (877) 787-2246
Encore Rose Bay RV Resort
5200 S Nova Rd, Port Orange, FL 32127
Phone: (386) 767-4308
Tomoka State Park
2099 N Beach St, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Phone: (386) 676-4050
One quick heads-up as you plan: RV parks can have different hook-up and amenity setups depending on the property and the event week. It’s worth a quick call before you arrive so you’re not surprised by what’s included.
When Speedweeks is in town, food lines get real. Your best move is to have two or three reliable places in mind so you’re not trying to decide dinner while everyone is hungry.
Aunt Catfish’s On the River
This is the cinnamon roll place people talk about. If you hear someone say, “We need to go to the place with the cinnamon buns,” they’re talking about Aunt Catfish. They’re known for warm cinnamon rolls that come out as part of the experience, and it turns a normal meal into a moment. It’s family-friendly, it’s relaxed, and after a loud day of racing, it feels like comfort food done right.
4009 Halifax Dr, Port Orange, FL 32127
Phone: (386) 767-4768
Cracked Egg Diner
This is one of those spots that works for real life. Early morning, big appetites, picky eaters, everyone can find something. If you want a low-stress breakfast plan during a high-energy week, this place is a safe bet.
3280 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 788-6772
Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Club
If you want a classic Daytona feel with oceanfront vibes, Ocean Deck is a solid pick. It’s lively, it’s right near the water, and it’s a fun place to regroup as a family or group after a day at the track.
127 S Ocean Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: (386) 253-5224
I love racing. I also love quiet.
Even if you’re having the time of your life, the constant engine noise and the crowded energy can wear on you after a few days. And that’s not a bad thing. It’s just your brain asking for a different kind of fun.
That’s why I always tell Daytona visitors this: build in a reset day. Not a boring day. A memorable day that feels totally different from the track.
Take the scenic A1A drive north and swim with dolphins in St. Augustine
This is my favorite move during Speedweeks, especially for families, couples, and anyone who wants a “wow moment” that isn’t loud.
Drive north on A1A. It’s one of those classic Florida coastal drives where the trip itself feels like part of the vacation. And when you get to St. Augustine, you can do something you’ll talk about long after the race week ends.
Here are your three options, depending on your comfort level and who’s in your group.
Dolphin Swim St Augustine
This is the full in-water experience for guests who want the biggest interaction and the biggest adrenaline.
Dolphin Encounter St Augustine
This is a calmer, guided option that’s great for a wide range of ages and comfort levels.
Dolphin Meet and Greet St Augustine
Perfect if you want the dolphin magic in a shorter, simpler format. It’s an amazing choice for families, first-timers, or anyone who just wants an unforgettable connection without committing to a full swim.
Here’s the truth about Speedweeks: lots of people have the same idea. They want one day that’s quieter and more personal, and dolphin programs are popular. Spaces fill up, especially during major event weeks.
Book today so you don’t miss out
If you’re already planning your Daytona Speedweeks trip, do yourself a favor and reserve your Dolphin World dolphin swim near Daytona Beach now. Lock in your spot, then enjoy Speedweeks knowing you’ve got one incredible, crowd-free highlight waiting for you up the coast.
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