You’d be forgiven for confusing Daytona Beach Shores with its sister, Daytona Beach, just a few miles away. But despite its similar name and geography, Daytona Beach Shores is its own city with its own vibe. You’ll find white sand beaches here, but the town has a sedate residential feel. Meanwhile, a quick commute puts you in the middle of the action where speedsters flock to Daytona International Speedway, home of world-class car racing, and where bikers converge for two huge rallies every year. The famous beach, lined with bars, restaurants, and volleyball courts, is known for good times and its hard-packed sand, suitable for driving on — a privilege you can partake of for a fee as long as you go at a leisurely 10 miles per hour. You can also rent bikes and golf carts to pilot across the sand. When you tire of the big crowds, head back to the soothing calm of Daytona Beach Shores.

Spring is high season for booking one of the area’s vacation rentals, when temperatures are warm but not scorching. Summer, which can be very hot and humid, still draws crowds on the beach. Winters, such as they are, are short and mild. Florida’s hurricane season is between June and November, so pay attention to weather alerts when planning travel. Spring Break, Biketoberfest in October, Daytona Bike Week in March, and big race events throughout the year draw big crowds and add to the festival atmosphere that pervades the Daytona area.

Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier

The smell of funnel cake and the clatter of arcade games await you on this classic oceanfront boardwalk. Daredevils can hit the local amusement park, where a slingshot ride rockets patrons 365 feet above the ground. If you prefer to take things at a lesser speed, wander over to the outdoor bandshell for live music performed under the warm Florida sun.

Daytona International Speedway

Opened in 1959, the legendary Daytona Speedway hosts numerous races throughout the year, although its premier draw is the Daytona 500 in February, during which drivers have clocked more than 200 miles per hour as they race to complete 200 laps around two and a half miles of smooth asphalt. The complex recently underwent a major upgrade, adding high-speed escalators, luxury stalls, and tripling concession stands. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the nine-foot-tall bronze statue of a legendary race car driver.

Brownie the Town Dog Memorial

Amidst all the hustle and flash is a low-key tribute to a well-loved dog. Brownie was a friendly stray who lived in Daytona Beach from 1939 until his death in 1954. Legend holds that he had a bank account and lived off steak and ice cream. Brownie’s grave is located in Riverfront Park and is marked by a statue of the local canine celebrity. It’s a stop on the Sweetheart Trail, a paved walking path lined with shaded awnings and historical markers.