2026 Brings Major Changes to Daytona Beach with New Hotels, Renovations, and Cultural Exhibits

Daytona Beach is getting ready for an exciting year ahead, with a wave of new attractions, renovations, and developments set to roll out in 2026. Famous for its iconic shoreline, rich motorsports heritage, and welcoming, family-friendly vibe, the destination is evolving to offer even more for both first-time visitors and returning guests. From new hotels and cultural experiences to fresh entertainment options, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach getaway or a high-energy adventure, Daytona Beach promises something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming in 2026 and why the destination should be on your travel radar.

New Hotel Openings to Enhance Daytona Beach’s Hospitality Offering

Daytona Beach will welcome several new hotels in 2026, adding to its growing appeal as a top vacation destination. One of the most anticipated openings is the Residence Inn by Marriott Ormond Beach, set to open in summer 2026. This oceanfront property will offer 137 extended-stay guestrooms and a variety of amenities, including a lobby pool bar, meeting space, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool with ocean views. This addition will provide travelers with more options for extended stays in a prime location near the beach.

Another exciting hotel opening is the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront, slated to open in spring 2026. The hotel will feature spacious suites with full kitchens, an oceanfront event space, and a bar/lounge area. These new properties will cater to both business and leisure travelers, making Daytona Beach an even more attractive destination.

Renovated Dining and Iconic Locations

The Daytona Beach dining scene will also see a revitalization in 2026, with the highly anticipated reopening of Billy’s Tap Room. Located along Granada Blvd. in Ormond Beach, Billy’s Tap Room has been a staple of the local food scene since 1922. Under new ownership, the restaurant will reopen with a refreshed atmosphere while maintaining its historic charm. The menu will feature seafood, steaks, and local favorites, complemented by beer and wine on tap and live entertainment.

In addition to dining, significant improvements are being made to some of Daytona Beach’s most iconic landmarks. The Main Street Arch, a historic beach approach built in 1936 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, has been fully restored and preserved. This arch has long been a beloved photo backdrop for visitors, and its restoration ensures that it remains a central part of the Daytona Beach experience.

Major Renovations at Ocean Center and Jackie Robinson Ballpark

Daytona Beach’s event venues are also undergoing significant upgrades in preparation for 2026. The Ocean Center Convention Complex is undergoing a $40 million renovation to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Upgrades include new seating, a new arena floor, enhanced lighting and sound systems, and improved backstage areas. The renovation, which is expected to be completed by April 2026, will provide a modernized venue for conferences, conventions, and entertainment events. A community celebration to unveil the upgrades will take place in early spring 2026.

Additionally, the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, one of Daytona Beach’s most historic venues, is undergoing a transformation. The ballpark, which holds significance as the site of Jackie Robinson’s first integrated Major League Baseball spring training game in 1946, will undergo extensive renovations through early 2026. The upgrades include a 30,000-square-foot player development facility, new clubhouses, upgraded dugouts, and improved fan seating. These improvements will further enhance the stadium’s appeal for both minor league games and special events.

Exciting New Cultural Exhibits

2026 will also bring exciting cultural experiences to Daytona Beach, starting with the “Expedition: Dinosaur” exhibit at the Museum of Arts & Sciences. This immersive experience will transport visitors back to the age of the dinosaurs with animatronic models and interactive displays. The exhibit will run through March 29, 2026, and will be followed by the construction of a new 90,000-square-foot museum, set to open in 2028. This development underscores Daytona Beach’s commitment to expanding its cultural and educational offerings for visitors of all ages.

New Dog-Friendly Beach and Outdoor Attractions

For pet lovers, Daytona Beach is introducing a new dog-friendly beach. The 1.7-mile stretch of beach, located between Williams Avenue and Seabreeze Boulevard, will welcome leashed dogs during daylight hours. This addition enhances the pet-friendly offerings in Daytona Beach, which also includes dog-friendly spots at Lighthouse Point Park and Smyrna Dunes Park. These beach areas are perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the white sands of Daytona Beach with their furry companions.

Enhanced Air Travel Access

Daytona Beach International Airport continues to expand its services, making it easier for travelers to access the city. JetBlue Airways has resumed nonstop flights to and from New York City (JFK) and Boston (BOS), with daily service. The airport has also added new flights from American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, and Delta, further improving the connectivity of Daytona Beach with major U.S. cities.

Conclusion

Daytona Beach in 2026 is shaping up to be a vibrant mix of modern comforts, rich cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. With new hotels, refreshed landmarks, innovative cultural exhibits, and exciting outdoor attractions, visitors will have no shortage of things to see and do. By continuing to invest in hospitality, culture, and open-air experiences, Daytona Beach remains a go-to destination—whether you’re looking to unwind by the ocean or dive into an action-filled getaway.

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