New Smyrna Beach is a fabulous city and the county seat of Volusia County in Florida, United States.
New Smyrna Beach was founded in 1768, making it one of the oldest cities in Florida State, with a population of 30,142 as of the 2020 census.
The non-profit group, Americans for the Arts, declared New Smyrna Beach as one of “America’s Top Small Cities for the Arts.” The city features many significant historical places and places of cultural interest.
The gorgeous beaches and scenic seashores with white sand and clear waters will make you love this city.
Some places in the city include Canal Street Historic District, Marine Discovery Center, the Hub on Canal, New Smyrna Beach Dog Park, New Smyrna Speedway, and more.
Do you want to go on a vacation to New Smyrna Beach? Here are the top things to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach, FL
1. New Smyrna Speedway (NSS)
New Smyrna Speedway (NSS)
This attraction is an asphalt track that extends for half a mile featuring elevated banks about five miles from the western side of New Smyrna Beach.
This Speedway was inspired solely by the internationally recognized Daytona International Speedway not too far from it.
New Smyrna Speedway (NSS) has been graced by well-known drivers, including Kelly Larson, Donnie, Richie Evans, Neli Bonnett, Davey Allison, and more.
The Speedway is also well known for being the spot that brought emerging stars like Harrison Burton and Todd Gilliland to the limelight.
The Speedway hosts Quarter Midgets every Friday night, the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series on Saturday nights, and a dozen other events that focus on the community.
Address: 3939 FL-44, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
2. Turtle Mound National Historic Site
Turtle Mound National Historic Site
Nestled inside Canaveral National Seashore, the Turtle Mound National Historic Site is an archaeological zone.
The Turtle Mound National Historic Site comprises more than 35,000 yards packed with oyster shells and wastes from people of prehistoric Timucuan.
This Site is a shell midden that stands above 50 feet high in a turtle shape, dating back to 800 and 1400 CE.
Every history lover and nature enthusiast will cherish this place. Visitors could also explore the Site using a beautiful boardwalk that surrounds the area in a curve form.
The boardwalk leads to the observation outlet, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mosquito Lagoon.
The Turtle Mound National Historic Site is said to have been used as a navigational system by mariners during the era. Exploring this Historic Site is one of the top things to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Address: 7465 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
3. Norwood’s Eatery & Bar Treehouse
Norwood’s Eatery & Bar Treehouse
Norwood’s Eatery & Bar Treehouse is a food chain in New Smyrna Beach that offers you more than you can imagine.
Like its name, it is a restaurant built in a tree-house-inspired style made from natural landscapes in Florida.
The restaurant is housed in a historic structure built way back in 1929, which has served many purposes, such as a general store, piggy bank factory, and a Pan Am gas station.
Norwood’s Eatery & Bar Treehouse has risen to become one of the most visited restaurants in New Smyrna Beach.
They offer a highly soothing dining area and cozy outdoor seating on the wooden patio shaded by a large tree.
Their outstanding menu includes handmade pasta, organic salads, gourmet sandwiches, prime steaks, juicy burgers, and more. Their full-service bar offers several kinds of libations, including more than thirty thousand wine bottles.
Address: 400 East 2nd Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
4. New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins
New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins
The New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins, also referred to as the Cruger-dePeyster Plantation Sugar Mill Ruins, feature remnants of the coquina sugar mill and factory.
This historic site currently preserves the remains of the sugarcane mill operated by steam and a sawmill from back in the 1830s.
In 1970, this place was mentioned on the National Register of Historic Places, being one of the most significant places in Florida State.
The sugar factory and sawmill were destroyed in 1835 during the Second Seminole War by the angry Seminole Indians.
The Sugar Mill said to have been constructed over two hundred years ago, illustrates what the state was like during the period, undeveloped and unpopulated.
The New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins are now open to everyone who would like to explore the nature trails and the nice picnic areas.
Address: 600 Mission Dr, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
5. The Hub on Canal
The Hub on Canal, a place with something for everyone, should be on your list of the best things to do in New Smyrna Beach.
The Hub on Canal is dedicated to hosting several art events to support the local community.
It was established as a non-profit organization to promote education & art and provide several opportunities for the community.
The Center organizes various cultural festivals, innovative workshops & classes, community programs, music & dance shows, and more all year round.
The Hub on Canal consists of rotational artworks made by regional and local artists hosting special occasions that offer artists a platform to work together and promote their artworks.
Address: 132 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
6. Marine Discovery Center
Marine Discovery Center
For an exceptional experience, the Marine Discovery Center should be on your list of best things to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
The Marine Discovery Center is an exceptional attraction featuring a museum, zoo, and aquarium under one facility.
Visitors are offered an opportunity to learn more about marine animals and plants through guided tours, hands-on activities, and exhibitions available.
The Center offers many educational activities, including lectures, adventure camping for children, conservation activities, and more.
Address: 520 Barracuda Boulevard, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
7. Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum
Mary S Harrell Black Heritage Museum
For those who want to learn about the history and culture of the African Americans in the region, Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum is one of the best places to visit in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
The Museum was founded to create awareness and acknowledgment of the history and culture of the African-Americans.
The Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum is found in the restored historic building erected in 1899 known as the Sacred Heart structure.
The building formerly served as the worship place for the Black Catholics congregations and is also part of the Museum proclaimed as the historic West Side community’s cornerstone in the town.
The Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum showcases intriguing photographs, artifacts, memorabilia, and oral histories linked to the African-American society dating back to the early 1900s up until date.
Address: 314 N Duss St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
8. Canal Street Historic District
If you are wondering what to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL, visit Canal Street Historic District, which offers you all the buzz you need.
The Canal Street Historic District, lined by trees featuring several kinds of structures, is an area for everyone.
You will find an extensive collection of urban parks, historic buildings, restaurants, art galleries, cultural sites, and antique stores.
This place, located on canal street, is known as the city’s heartbeat, consisting of residents and tourists.
Canal Street Historic District offers people several things to explore and is known as an art region due to the number of art galleries available.
The District is home to various events, usually on the First Saturdays, such as wine tastings, gallery walks, artists’ talk shows, and more.
Address: New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
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9. Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA)
Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA)
The Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) was established in 1977 by Doris Leeper, a talented artist in New Smyrna Beach.
This platform thrives on promoting and displaying the artwork by regional and local artists.
As a residential program, it has continuously brought together works of recognized artists from different vocations with local but talented artists.
The Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) promotes arts by offering collaborations, private studio sections, and master classes.
You will find a large collection of beautiful artworks, including offering artists from different parts of the world a temporary studio and home.
Address: 1414 Art Center Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
10. The Baker’s Table
The Baker’s Table
The Baker’s Table, a modern combination of a bakery and bistro, is a favorite place for lovers of authentic German cuisine plus several international fares.
The Baker’s Table takes pride in using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients sourced from local distributors.
The restaurant is stylishly decorated, offering patrons a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that attracts them to come in and have a great time.
You might also decide to sit indoors or on the cozy outdoor patio, which offers fantastic views of the street scene.
The Baker’s Table offers an extensive menu featuring meals suitable for lunch and dinner, including organic desserts, fresh seafood, vegetables, meats, salads, and more.
They feature a full-time bar offering a wide variety of drinks, including specialty cocktails, classic wines, craft beers, and imported spirits.
Address: 4154 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
11. Arts on Douglas
If you’re an art enthusiast searching for a perfect art location, Arts on Douglas is one of the best places to visit in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Arts on Douglas is located in the town’s downtown district as a retail art gallery committed to facilitating the artworks of numerous Florida professional artists.
The art gallery was founded by Doris Leeper, an artist, and Ed Harris, a benefactor, in 1966. The gallery is housed in a 1930 historic building, formerly used as a Ford showroom and a service center.
It is a facility with more than 3,500 square feet of exhibition room where everything happens, including an exhibition program.
This exhibition program consists of eighteen exhibitions annually concentrated on several artistic mediums, modern genres, and styles, including sculpture, video, digital media, and national art.
Address: 123 Douglas St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
12. Perrine’s Produce
Perrine’s Produce, a general farmers’ market located on the Dixie Freeway, is open to locals and residents.
This neighborhood market was established in 1986 as a family-owned and operated business with about three branches scattered within the state.
The market is open all week, offering patrons the highest quality and freshest locally grown farm produce.
Perrine’s Produce offers an enormous array of deli meats, fruit, flowers, frozen seafood, vegetables, handmade cheeses, and organic honey.
You can also purchase the best gourmet sandwiches, olive oils, and more. Some of the items sold are also imported from different places.
Address: 1044 N Dixie Fwy, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
13. Wake Up Cafe
What can be possibly better than using a flavorful cup of beverage to start up your day? Do well to visit the outstanding Wake Up Cafe in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Wake Up Cafe is a popular cafe with two branches within the city known for serving American cuisines with a touch of Spanish and Argentine style.
The first thing they provide for their customers is a comfortable and convenient environment perfect for them to dine.
They offer various delicious beverages, including freshly pressed fruit juices, hot chocolate, well-brewed coffee, herbal teas, and more.
Wake Up Cafe offers a food menu featuring delicious French toast, pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, waffles, wraps, salads, toasted cheese, and more.
Address: 749 E 3rd Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
14. A Festival of the Arts
A Festival of the Arts
A Festival of the Arts is rated among the top fifty most popular outdoor fairs in the United States, attracting visitors and residents from far and wide.
Attending this festival depends on when you visit, but try as much as possible not to miss this, and you will be grateful you didn’t.
This festival lasts four days and is held every year in January with unique themes, making it an event to anticipate.
A Festival of the Arts brings together numerous artists from all over the world, including thousands of art lovers who come to purchase beautiful artworks.
The festival offers activities aside from art exhibitions such as live music performances, traditional dishes, and more.
Address: 214 S Riverside Dr, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
15. Flagler Avenue Park
Visiting Flagler Avenue Park certainly has to be on your list of fun things to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL. This Park is where all the fun happens.
This area is one of the most popular destinations for locals and tourists seeking an abundance of everything fun and exciting.
There are several attractions here, ranging from places to drink, party, shop, dine, play, lodge, take beautiful pictures, and more.
Flagler Avenue Park is a coastal park and home to fantastic art galleries, hotels, boutiques, restaurants, surf shops, and more.
For nightlife lovers, there are many entertainment centers and party venues where you can spend the whole night vibing to the music.
This place is usually calm and quiet in the early hours of the day. You could stop by one of the coffee stores for a delicious cup of drink and a snack.
Address: Flagler Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
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16. SoNapa Grille
If you are in a celebration mood or want a lovely dinner with loved ones, visit SoNapa in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
The SoNapa Grille is an eatery decorated in a rustic style featuring a two-level bar, cozy booths, smooth concrete floors, a huge window, and more.
The owners and staff are keen on offering perfect services and well-prepared meals, which usually draw people to come in and dine.
Their comprehensive food menu offers several New American dishes prepared daily on-site using locally grown ingredients, including organic salads, fresh meats, and fresh seafood.
The SoNapa Grille’s full-time bar offers a large collection of craft beers both by the bottle and on tap, including imported spirits, casual wines, and specialty cocktails.
Address: 3406 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
17. The New Smyrna Museum of History
New Smyrna Museum of History
The Museum houses an extensive collection of materials that illustrates the past events in the city and the ways people utilized in developing the city through different eras.
You get to browse through a wide variety of presentations and displays that talks about the lifestyle of the people and artists.
The New Smyrna Museum of History showcases photographs of the city dating back to the 1800s, home equipment of over one hundred years, civil war artifacts, and more.
Right on the second floor of the Museum, you will find the Sweett exhibits, which consist of numerous artifacts of the Native American sourced within the Sheldon Research Library and New Smyrna Beach.
The Museum gift store is stocked with unique hats and shirts, books about the city, Minocran condiments, and plant seeds.
Address: 120 Sams Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
18. New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company
New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company is a trendy brewery among beer lovers and dealers in the middle of the city.
The brewery manufactures its beer inside the facility using modern equipment and techniques in the production processes.
They are also known for using the best grains sourced from the best suppliers in different parts of the world.
New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company offers beers like Indian River Root Beer, Disappearing Island, Apricot Gose Wild, Pontoon Pilsner, Feeding Frenzy, Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter, Keep Pom and Sour On, and more.
Aside from the beers served, visitors enjoy complimentary snacks, including delicious popcorn to complement the drinks.
There is something for everyone here, including freshly pressed orange juices, lattes, and other flavorful beverages.
Address: 143 Canal Street, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
19. Third Wave Cafe
Third Wave Cafe
The Third Wave Cafe is a unique cafeteria offering a laid-back vibe and a more comfortable ambiance.
They are the best when it has to do with delectable breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner meals.
This restaurant is always ready to serve you every day of the week with a gorgeous patio lined by tall palm trees and beautiful native flora.
The Third Wave Cafe features skillfully carved sculptures made from wood with colorful-dimed lights, which makes the outdoor area more dreamy.
You can enjoy their Blanco pizza, Hash and Mexican chorizo, Ahi Tacos plates, shrimp & grits, and so much more from their extensive food menu.
Aside from meals, they also offer drinks to blend with the food served, including signature cocktails which can be enjoyed at their indoor lounge.
Address: 204 Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
20. New Smyrna Beach Dog Park
For those traveling with their pets and planning to give them a treat, ensure to visit the New Smyrna Beach Dog Park in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
New Smyrna Beach Dog Park is a 1.2-acre park with large green areas and a beautiful sea with a depth that is excellent for your furry friends.
The Park is a perfect choice whenever you want to give your pets a lovely treat that will make them wag their tails in joy.
The grassy spaces are big enough for your pets to run around to their hearts’ content. There are different areas for small and big dogs.
New Smyrna Beach Dog Park is not just great for your pets but for you, the dog owner as well. You could relax in a shaded area and enjoy a simple picnic while your pets play around.
Address: 2698-2504 Paige Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
21. Coronado Community United Methodist Church
Coronado Community United Methodist Church
The Coronado Community United Methodist Church was founded in 1904 as worship and religious place in the city.
This church has been offering religious assistance to the community, known for providing different kinds of worship.
The church is not too far from the Atlantic Ocean and is dedicated to serving regionally, nationally, and internationally.
The Coronado Community United Methodist Church offers educational programs, classes, and support teams for community growth.
The church is a venue for various other events and a must-visit whenever you want to meditate and reflect.
Address: 201 S Peninsula Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
22. New Smyrna Beach’s Annual Seaside Fiesta
If you are looking for what to do in New Smyrna Beach, FL, then attend the New Smyrna Beach’s Annual Seaside Fiesta.
New Smyrna Beach’s Annual Seaside Fiesta has become quite popular and has drawn thousands of people for over thirty years.
The event is held annually in June, with a fresh and unique theme that makes it refreshing and exciting.
There are many carnival games to engage in, including rides and incredible live music to groove and dance with your friends and family.
New Smyrna Beach’s Annual Seaside Fiesta features several food trucks and vendors offering unique gift items.
Address: New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States
23. Black Dolphin Inn
Black Dolphin Inn
Are you searching for a safe and comfortable place to lodge? Book a room at Black Dolphin Inn in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Black Dolphin Inn is a well-known resort in the city. One of the significant highlights is the dolphins which usually visit the dock to entertain the guests.
This Inn is a historic estate built in a Spanish-Isle-inspired style to offer visitors the elegance and privacy they need.
The Inn features fourteen guest’s suits and rooms, with each of the rooms beautifully designed with authentic artworks, vintage furnishings, soft beds, and bathrooms.
Black Dolphin Inn ensures every room is designed with a unique theme featuring wet bars, lovely balconies, and dramatic waterfront views.
As a guest, you will be served complimentary breakfast every morning, including housekeeping and dry cleaning services.
Address: 916 S Riverside Dr., New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, United States
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Plan Your Trip to New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is an exceptional city in Florida that offers tourists limitless opportunities to get outside and explore.
There are numerous activities to do with your family and friends. Have fun and create new memories!!