The Great American Race is a great excuse to visit Florida in February
As February approaches, the roar of engines draws racing fans to Daytona Beach, Florida, for the iconic Daytona 500. Known as “The Great American Race,” it’s the first major contest of the NASCAR season and a party for its most passionate fans.
Global Air Charters is your premier travel partner for the greatest motorsports spectaculars. Every year we charter clients to Formula 1 races from Singapore to Miami, and the NASCAR Cup Series Championship.
We will ensure seamless and relaxing travel to Daytona Beach — contact our flight coordinators today to reserve your airframe. Here are a few tips to making the most of your time on the Florida Coast.
Fly in Close
Arrival airports don’t get more convenient than this. Daytona Beach International Airport (KDAB) is located directly next to Daytona International Speedway. We can get you from the tarmac to the grandstand in mere minutes.
Stay and Play
If you’re staying the weekend, you might want a room on Atlantic Avenue overlooking the ocean. The Shores Resort & Spa is a charming beachside retreat with a full-service spa and upscale dining. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of racing.
If you want to stay closer to the racetrack, The Daytona, Autograph Collection is a favorite among racing fans. It features sleek rooms and a bar with views of the speedway.
VIP Ticket Options
The Daytona 500 runs on Sunday, February 16, 2025, but there are several other races and events leading up to the main event. Qualifying races happen on Wednesday and Thursday. A NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race is run on Friday. Saturday is a doubleheader of NASCAR Xfinity Series races.
Tickets are available for all of race week, including exclusive packages that include premium seating, Fanzone access, and a pre-race concert by Pitbull. There are also multi-day club level packages that feature a dedicated bar and patio, plush seating, and the best sightlines on the track.
Atlantic Eats
When it comes to dining, Daytona Beach has several high-end options to cap a perfect day of racing action. For a classic steakhouse experience, try Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse for premium cuts and an extensive wine list with panoramic beach views.
Head to Chucherias for Caribbean flavors with an emphasis on seafood. Start with croquettes and octopus before choosing between lobster, grouper, or any of the fish specials.
We also like to snag a cozy corner table at The Cellar Restaurant for an intimate Italian dinner. The pastas are all handmade and the wine list is packed with Brunellos and Barolos.
Daytona Days
Beyond the speedway, Daytona Beach has plenty to offer visitors. Everyone should find time to stroll along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, home to vintage arcades, shops, and oceanfront dining.
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is Florida’s tallest — climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. If you’re traveling with family, the nearby Marine Science Center offers engaging exhibits and up-close encounters with rescued sea turtles and seabirds.
February in Daytona is bustling with events and festivals. The Daytona Beach Beer & Bacon Festival (February 22) is a lively celebration of craft beer, featuring breweries from across the region and live entertainment.
A few miles inland, the DeLand Mardi Gras Dog Parade (February 22) is a quirky, family-friendly event showcasing costumed pups in a festive parade through historic DeLand.
Daytona 500 2025
The Daytona 500 comes at the perfect time to visit Central Florida. The Spring Break crowds have yet to arrive, but the weather is still pleasant, and the city is abuzz with racing fans. Don’t miss your opportunity to see NASCAR’s best battle on its most iconic track. Contact our flight coordinators to reserve your airframe now.
