Best attractions and places to see in Volusia County include a diverse array of natural landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural sites. The region features 35 miles of sandy beaches and 172 miles of waterways, providing numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Volusia County offers a variety of experiences for those interested in nature, history, and local culture.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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The park consists primarily of a boardwalk and a warm spring, which can be used for swimming in the upper part. The water is always pleasantly warm and crystal clear. In addition to various fish, you can also encounter manatees. Swimming is no longer possible during the winter, and the warm water remains reserved for the manatees.
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A wonderful way to spend a day outdoors and experience Florida's native wildlife and nature.
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New Smyrna Beach was founded in 1768, shortly after the British acquired East Florida in 1763, by Scottish physician and businessman Andrew Turnbull, who received a deed from the British Crown to settle the area. At that time, it was simply called New Smyrna, named after the Ottoman city in the Asia Minor birthplace of his wife, Maria Gracia Turnbull, in Smyrna (now Izmir, Turkey). It is the oldest city in Volusia County and one of the oldest in all of Florida. Due to the fact that Spanish missionaries settled in the area as early as the 1560s, New Smyrna Beach is often referred to as the second oldest city in the United States. Founder Turnbull brought around 1,255 settlers from Smyrna, the Greek Islands, Italy, and Minorca to cultivate indigo, corn, rice, hemp, and cotton. Although the colony produced relatively large quantities of processed indigo, it collapsed in 1770, weakened by disease, dissension, and attacks by local Indians. The remaining 600 settlers fled to St. Augustine, further north, in 1770, where their descendants still live today. Turnbull left the settlement and retired to Charleston, South Carolina.
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Wonderful free park with lovely paths for walking and cycling. Spacious lawns, picnic area, fishing piers, playgrounds available. Swimming not possible due to the danger of alligators. The park has a large parking lot!
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Lake Monroe Park, one of Volusia County's oldest and most popular parks, offers a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the park provides free admission, with a $2 fee for boat launches. Amenities include a boardwalk, boat ramps, fishing docks, nature trails, a playground, and picnic pavilions. Renovated in 2004, the park also has upgraded restrooms and a trailhead for the Lake Monroe-Gemini Springs-DeBary Hall Trail. Camping fees are $25 per night for tents and $40 for RVs.
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An oasis on the bike trail, a little south of Maytown Spur Trail Head. They stock cold water as well as sodas and snacks. Fantastic place, especially as the nearest store is far, far (!) away!
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The railway overpass along the Spring to Spring Trail is a vital link that seamlessly connects the two sections of this popular route. As riders, approach the overpass, they are treated to a unique perspective, offering a bird's-eye view of the surrounding terrain.
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Cycling amongst the mixture of palm and broad leaved trees on a raised wooden platform, this park provides a beautiful and quiet backdrop to a bike ride.
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Volusia County is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Blue Spring State Park, famous as a winter refuge for manatees, where you can also swim and kayak in warmer months. Another option is Black Bear Wilderness Area, a 1,650-acre preserve with a 7.3-mile loop trail where you might spot deer, otters, alligators, and even black bears. Don't miss De Leon Springs State Park, where you can swim in a natural spring and even make your own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill.
Yes, Volusia County offers several significant historical and cultural sites. Climb Florida's tallest lighthouse at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse for breathtaking views. Explore the 1871 hunting lodge at DeBary Hall Historic Site, or visit the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park to see the remains of an 1821 sugar mill. For sports history, Jackie Robinson Ballpark is where Jackie Robinson played the first integrated baseball game in Florida.
Many attractions in Volusia County are great for families. Blue Spring State Park and De Leon Springs State Park offer swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boating. The Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure features colorful fish and rainforest exhibits. For outdoor fun, Lake Monroe Park Boardwalk has a playground and picnic areas, while the Daytona Beach Boardwalk Amusements provides classic entertainment.
Volusia County has several accessible options. The Smyrna Dunes Park Boardwalk features over 3 km of handicapped-accessible boardwalks with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River. Blue Spring State Park also offers wheelchair-accessible facilities. Additionally, Lake Monroe Park Boardwalk is designed with accessibility in mind, offering easy access to nature trails and amenities.
Volusia County is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. For hiking, consider the 7.3-mile loop trail in the Black Bear Wilderness Area. You can also find easy hikes like the Ormond Beach Central Parks Loop or the Coastal Strand Trail, as detailed in the Easy Hikes in Volusia County guide. Cyclists can enjoy routes like the Spring-to-Spring Trail or the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, which are highlighted in the Road Cycling Routes in Volusia County guide.
The primary spot for manatee viewing in Volusia County is Blue Spring State Park. During the cooler winter months, hundreds of manatees gather in the spring's warm waters, making it an excellent place to observe them from the boardwalks. Swimming is restricted during this time to protect the manatees.
Yes, Smyrna Dunes Park Boardwalk is known for its dog-friendly swimming areas and boardwalks, making it a great option for visitors with pets. Always check specific park rules regarding leashes and designated areas before your visit.
The best time to visit Blue Spring State Park depends on your interest. For manatee viewing, visit during the cooler winter months (typically November through March) when manatees seek refuge in the warm spring waters. If you're interested in swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking, the warmer months are ideal, as these activities are restricted when manatees are present.
Beyond the well-known spots, consider exploring the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Historic District, known as the 'Psychic Capital of the World,' for a unique cultural experience. The Barberville Pioneer Settlement offers a glimpse into early settler life, and the DeLand Naval Air Station Museum commemorates WWII history. For a peaceful natural escape, Green Springs Park is known for its vibrant emerald-green spring and natural trails.
For relaxation and picnics, Lake Monroe Park Boardwalk is an excellent choice, offering spacious lawns, picnic pavilions, and nature trails. Tomoka State Park also provides scenic spots for picnicking and bird watching along the Tomoka River. Many state parks in the area, such as De Leon Springs State Park, also feature dedicated picnic areas.
Volusia County offers diverse running trails. You can challenge yourself on the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail: Osteen to Gemini Springs, or enjoy a moderate run on the Daytona International Speedway loop. For coastal views, try the New Smyrna Beach loop or the Ponce Inlet Trail Loop. More options are available in the Running Trails in Volusia County guide.


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