Ultimate Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend Guide

Every August, the excitement builds in the Daytona Beach area as NASCAR returns to Daytona International Speedway for the Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend Aug. 28-29, one of the most anticipated weekends on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule. With its high-speed action, dramatic finishes and electric atmosphere, it’s a bucket-list event for racing fans.

But the race is only part of the experience. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or making your annual pilgrimage to Daytona Beach, you’ll discover there’s plenty to enjoy before and after the green flag drops. From racing history and waterfront dining to beach adventures and family attractions, here’s how to make the most of your Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend in Daytona Beach:

Cars racing on the Daytona track during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 race.

Secure Your Race Tickets

The first step in planning your race weekend is securing your tickets to the Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend at the world-famous Daytona International Speedway. In addition to Saturday night’s NASCAR Cup Series race, fans can enjoy a full weekend of racing with the Winn-Dixie 250 Powered by Coca-Cola on Friday night, driver appearances, fan experiences, vendors and entertainment throughout the Speedway.

For tickets, premium seating options and the latest race weekend schedule, visit Daytona International Speedway’s official website.

Book Your Stay Early

Race weekend is one of the busiest times of the year in Daytona Beach, making it important to reserve your accommodations in advance.

Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront resort, full-service hotel, vacation rental, cozy beachside inn or campground, Daytona Beach offers lodging options for every travel style and budget. Many visitors choose to stay along the beach, allowing them to enjoy the best of both worlds—easy access to the Speedway and just steps from 23 miles of beautiful Atlantic coastline.

Explore accommodations and find the perfect place to stay at the Coke Zero 400 lodging availability page.

Discover Where Racing History Began

Long before Daytona International Speedway became known as the “World Center of Racing,” racing took place on the hard-packed sands of Daytona Beach.

Explore the destination’s rich motorsports heritage by following the Daytona Beach Motorsports Trail. Visit Racing’s North Turn, located on the site of the original beach course’s famous north turn in Ponce Inlet, see historic markers throughout the area, and learn how Daytona Beach helped shape the sport of NASCAR.

Racing's North Turn

Fuel Up at Race-Themed Restaurants

No race weekend is complete without enjoying some of the race-themed restaurants in Daytona Beach.

Daytona Beach is home to several restaurants that celebrate the destination’s racing heritage, from Racing’s North Turn Beach Bar & Grille and Blue Flame at The DAYTONA Hotel to the Ormond Garage, these race-themed restaurants embrace the area’s racing history and serve great food.

Cornhole on the Beach

Hit the Beach Between Race Events

One of the biggest advantages of attending the Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend is that you’re also vacationing in one of Florida’s favorite beach destinations.

Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, take a swim in the Atlantic Ocean, rent a paddleboard or kayak, parasail high above the coastline or simply enjoy a stroll along the “World’s Most Famous Beach.” With 23 miles of wide, sandy beaches, it’s easy to unwind on the beach before heading back to the Speedway for another exciting night of racing.

An aerial view of Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Explore Daytona Beach’s Top Attractions

Looking to fill your downtime between races? Daytona Beach has attractions for everyone’s interest.

Feeling adventurous? Climb the 203 steps to the top of the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the tallest in Florida, experience marine life at the Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure, visit the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and discover family fun at Daytona Lagoon or PopStroke Daytona Beach.

Prefer shopping? Spend an afternoon exploring Tanger Daytona Beach or browse the unique shops and local businesses found in downtown Daytona Beach.

Extend Your Stay

Don’t rush home after the checkered flag waves on the Coke Zero 400.

Turn your race weekend into a longer beach vacation by adding an extra day or two to your itinerary. Cruise the scenic Ormond Beach Scenic Loop & Trail, discover the laid-back charm of Ponce Inlet, enjoy fresh local seafood on the waterfront, book a fishing charter or take a sunset cruise along the Halifax River.

With beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, great dining and a rich racing heritage, Daytona Beach offers far more than an unforgettable race weekend. It can also deliver a vacation worth extending.

Whether you’re cheering from your seat at the track, exploring NASCAR history or relaxing by the ocean, the Coke Zero Sugar 400 Weekend is the perfect excuse to experience everything Daytona Beach has to offer. Start planning your race weekend today and create memories that will last long after the checkered flag falls.