Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start to summer. And in Daytona Beach, that means mornings paddling the waterways, afternoons filled with endless waterfront adventures, and evenings of live music at the Daytona Beach Bandshell. But between the oceanfront dining and family fun, take a moment to remember the men and women whose sacrifices allow us to enjoy carefree, sun-soaked beach days.
Memorial Day is a time when we collectively pause to appreciate those who have died to preserve the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. There are several places in the Daytona Beach area where you can pay homage to these fallen heroes and learn more about our nation’s military. If you plan on visiting, be sure to call before you visit any attractions, as operating hours may vary due to the holiday.
Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Esplanade
Located in historic downtown Daytona Beach, the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Esplanade honors veterans of all wars. The memorial’s waterfront plaza features commemorative markers and plaques.
ADDRESS: 60 East Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach
Veterans Memorial Museum Deltona
Located about 30 miles southwest of Daytona Beach in Deltona, the Veterans Memorial Museum exists to honor everyone who serves or has served in the United States military. In addition to viewing monuments listing the names of those who have been lost in battle or are currently serving overseas, you can view an authentic U.S. Army AH-1 Cobra Helicopter. Witness a piece of history up close and personal in the park.
ADDRESS: 1921 Evard Avenue, Deltona
PHONE: (386) 789-8247
Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
Wander through gallery exhibits, marvel at the works of prominent international and local artists, and stroll through the lush gardens at Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens. The museum was founded in 1946 as a living monument to equality and artistic freedom, and to commemorate the valiant service of World War II veterans. A bronze plaque inside the museum lists former Ormond Beach residents who served in World War II, and you can also view the Korean War Memorial Sculpture by commissioned Florida artist Mark Chew. The gardens offer a peaceful place to remember and honor all who served.
ADDRESS: 78 East Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach
PHONE: (386) 676-3347
Veterans Museum & Education Center
The Veterans Museum and Education Center, which recently completed its relocation to the S. Cornelia Young Memorial Library on Vermont Avenue in the heart of Daytona Beach, pays tribute to the commitment, dedication, service, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. In the museum, you’ll find the names of local heroes, uniforms from all military branches, and an exhibit spotlighting a different veteran each month.
ADDRESS: 302 Vermont Avenue, Daytona Beach
PHONE: (386) 256-7909
DeLand Naval Air Station Museum
Formerly a World War II training base for dive-bomber pilots, the DeLand Naval Air Station Museum now operates with a slightly less risky purpose. The museum, which is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, houses an ever-growing collection of historical artifacts, veterans’ mementos, and military art. You can even witness incredible restoration projects such as those of the PTF-3 Fast Torpedo Boat, the TBF Avenger Torpedo Bomber, and the M38A1 Jeep.
ADDRESS: 910 Biscayne Boulevard, DeLand
PHONE: (386) 738-4149
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