West Volusia

20 Essential Ways to Experience West Volusia like a Local (For $10 or Less!)

Tucked between the glow of Orlando and the high-speed hum of Daytona lies West Volusia County, a pocket of the Sunshine State where time seems to slow down. Here, luxury isn’t found in the emerald stillness of a natural spring or the preserved brick-lined charm of America’s best Main Street. From the Artisan Alley of DeLand to the quiet thrill of a manatee sighting, the Read More » Continue reading 20 Essential Ways to Experience West Volusia like a Local (For $10 or Less!)

A large body of water next to the ocean

Stay Connected in Volusia County: Essential Resources

Staying informed is the first step to being an engaged local in Volusia County. Whether you’re checking county and city newsletters, signing up for community events, monitoring emergency alerts or following reliable community media, there are plenty of ways to stay connected. These resources are designed to keep residents informed, involved and ready to take action when needed. Continue reading Stay Connected in Volusia County: Essential Resources

Animal on the table

West Volusia: Head out on a CoolCraft Summer Beverage Safari

Grab your pith helmet and pack your sense of adventure—CoolCraft Summer is back and wilder than ever! From now through September 1, the West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority (WVTAA) invites visitors and locals alike to sip their way through the fourth annual CoolCraft Summer Beverage Competition, themed this year as a Summer Safari. Discover Animal-Inspired Beverages from Local Favorites Across West Volusia, 22 of the Read More » Continue reading West Volusia: Head out on a CoolCraft Summer Beverage Safari

Definitely DeLand

Definitely DeLand: Small-Town Charm with Flair

Highlighting the Shops, Restaurants and Attractions that Make DeLand the Athens of Florida Strolling through Downtown DeLand feels like stepping into a postcard, where brick-lined streets meet vibrant murals, unique shops and locally loved eats. If you’re planning a weekend escape this summer, DeLand offers a refreshing blend of vibrant art, flavor and small-town charm. Where to Eat & Shop Start your adventure with lunch Read More » Continue reading Definitely DeLand: Small-Town Charm with Flair

Explore Historic Streets, Cool Springs, and Lively Nights

Looking for an escape that blends adventure with laid-back charm? West Volusia is the sweet spot between Orlando’s energy and Daytona Beach’s waves. It’s a place where spring and summer linger, stitched together with crystal-clear springs, rich history, and music-filled nights. It’s unpolished, unpredictable… and that’s the magic. Shopping on Woodland Boulevard DeLand is home to an array of shopping and fun stores, making it Read More » Continue reading Explore Historic Streets, Cool Springs, and Lively Nights

Discover Old Florida Charm: 10 Must-Do Experiences

With 14 communities along the St. Johns River, West Volusia County blends natural beauty, historical sites and outdoor activities for a unique “Old Florida” experience. Here are 10 ways to play in West Volusia: 1. Explore the St. Johns River: Rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or tubes from outfitters, or take a guided river cruise at Blue Spring and DeLeon Springs State Parks. For the adventurous, Read More » Continue reading Discover Old Florida Charm: 10 Must-Do Experiences

Park Volusia: Pay to Park or Pay the Fine

Residents and visitors in Volusia County are noticing Park Volusia signs around cities at county-owned off beach parking lots, featuring QR codes for convenient payment. As of January 1, 2025, non-registered residents and visitors must pay $20 per day – plus tax and credit card fees – to park at select beach access points including beach walkovers and public parking lots. Parking Fees and Pass Read More » Continue reading Park Volusia: Pay to Park or Pay the Fine

Elevate Florida program now accepting applications to strengthen homes against future storms

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is now accepting applications for its Elevate Florida program, which provides funding to help homeowners protect their properties from future flood damage. This program offers Volusia County residents a chance to elevate, rebuild, or strengthen their homes, potentially saving them thousands in repairs, lowering flood insurance premiums, and increasing home values. The program is available even if a property has not previously experienced Read More » Continue reading Elevate Florida program now accepting applications to strengthen homes against future storms

Sweet Traditions: Honoring Papa, One Donut at a Time

Last year ended with a mix of emotions as my family celebrated the holidays while also mourning the loss of my grandpa, Papa Moll. As silly as it may sound, one of my favorite things about him was that you could always guarantee that he would have the best donuts, local to Brunswick, Ohio, ready for you at his house. To honor him and start Read More » Continue reading Sweet Traditions: Honoring Papa, One Donut at a Time

ActivStars Kids’ Karate Spring Semester Kicks Off in Volusia County

ActivStars Athletics Kids’ Karate Classes ActivStars Athletics of Florida is excited to announce the upcoming semester of kids’ karate classes, designed to empower young participants with essential self-defense skills while promoting confidence, discipline and fun. With class locations in Port Orange, New Smyrna, Lake Helen and DeLand, ActivStars ensures families across Volusia County have easy access to this incredible program. ActivStars’ signature Safe Shield Stranger Read More » Continue reading ActivStars Kids’ Karate Spring Semester Kicks Off in Volusia County