EXTRAS- Insider’s Guide To Fun

The EXTRAS Insider’s Guide is full of side trips and things to do that are inexpensive or free in the area. 

Around Town

The Casements was once the winter home of America’s first billionaire, John D. Rockefeller. Today it’s a cultural center and museum. Seasonal and art exhibits abound. Tour times: Monday – Friday 1 p.m., 2 p.m, 3 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m., 11 a.m. Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., 25 Riverside Dr., Ormond Beach, 386-676-3216.

The Park at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has a focal point that features the Wright Flyer statue with Orville Wright. With one of the best photo ops around, you’ll maintain your bragging rights when you get home. Located East of Daytona Beach International Airport, offClyde Morris Blvd. and Perimeter Rd.

Art & About

The Murals of DeLand can be enjoyed without ever setting foot in a building. Stroll through the City’s history with a walk through Downtown DeLand. The area in and around Woodland Blvd. has 13 giant murals painted on walls in the downtown core. It’s a fun place to shop and dine too! 386-738-0649.

Southeast Museum of Photography is the place to scan the works of internationally known photographers. If you are a photography afficionado you don’t want to miss this unique museum, located on the campus of Daytona State College. Free admission. 1200 W. International Speedway Blvd., Building #1200, 386-506-4475.

History Hunters

Lilian Place built in 1884, is the oldest house on the beachside and rumor has it – it’s haunted! Red Badge of Courage author Stephen Crane stayed here to recuperate in 1886 after his ship sank off the coast. Guided Tours are Wednesday – Monday, 1 – 5 p.m. A $5 donation is requested. 111 Silver Beach Ave., Daytona Beach, 386-256-4810.

Sugar Mill Ruins-This 17 acre site was built in the early 19^thcentury and contains the ruins of a once highly functional sugar mill and unknown buildings. It operated just five years when it was destroyed during the Seminole Wars. Open dawn to dusk. Free admission. 600 Mission Dr., New Smyrna Beach.

Back To Nature

The Fairchild Oak in Bulow Creek State Park is over 400 years old! The park is a serene environment with walking trails through Old Florida surroundings. Located 5 miles north of Ormond Beach. 3351 Old Dixie Hwy., Ormond Beach, Free. 386-676-4050.

Hontoon Island State Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of being stranded on a private island, here’s your chance. The island is located smack in the center of the St. Johns River and can be accessed only by ferry or boat. Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history, fish, kayak or hike. Tables, grills are waiting for you. Canoe rentals and boat slips available. 8 a.m. till one hour before sunset. The ferry and admission are free. 2309 River Ridge Rd., DeLand, 386-736-5309.

Marine Science Center is the place to touch a live stingray and learn about turtles, pelicans and seagulls through interactive exhibits at this giant rehabilitation center. It’s fun and informative! $5 adults. Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday 12 – 4 p.m., 100 Lighthouse Dr., Ponce Inlet, 386-304-5545.

Ponce Preserve spans ocean to river. Hike along lush, elevated nature trails. Cross the dune walkover to the ocean or follow the boardwalk to the river. There are playgrounds and a lookout tower. Check out a 400 year old oak tree and the base of the Green Mound Indian Midden. Free admission. Dawn to Dusk, 4401 S. Peninsula Dr., Ponce Inlet.

Tomoka State Park is where Native Americans once lived with few modern conveniences; you can follow in their footsteps. Fishing, canoeing, boating and bird watching are the most popular pastimes here. Be on the lookout for pods of dolphin and manatee! Canoe and kayak rentals available. $5/car. 2099 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach, 386-676-4050.

Fishing

Granada Bridge Pier fishing can be addictive! Pick up your bait on the premises, cast your line from the extra-long pier and get ready to reel in your catch. It’s free! (fishing license required) 1 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach, 386-676-9078.

Ponce Inlet Jetty anglers love that they can take in the breathtaking scenery of Lighthouse Point Park, watch surfers and boaters, while they wait for a bite. Covered picnic areas, restrooms and it’s pet friendly! $10 per vehicle. $20 annual inlet parks pass. (fishing license required) Sunrise – sunset. 5000 S. Atlantic Ave., Ponce Inlet, 386-756-7488.

Sun Glow Pier is 1,000 feet long and ideal for fishing. And if your experience produces less sh than you expected, there’s a restaurant right here! $7 adults, $3 Children. 3701 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach Shores, www.SunGlowPier.com

*EXTRAS- Insider’s Guide To Fun in the Sun DAY 2-19