If winter has you dreaming about open roads, ocean breezes, and the sound of engines rolling in harmony, Daytona Beach has your next escape. From Feb. 27 through March 8, the iconic Florida destination shifts into high gear as it hosts the 85th annual Daytona Beach Bike Week, one of the largest and most legendary motorcycle gatherings in the world.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of riders and fans stream into Daytona Beach to kick off riding season under warm, blue skies and average temperatures near 70 degrees. But Bike Week is more than just motorcycles — it’s a full-blown coastal festival blending racing, beach culture, live entertainment, scenic rides, and the unmistakable camaraderie of biker life.
For travelers, it’s the perfect excuse to trade cold weather for sunshine and swap routine weekends for roaring engines along the Atlantic shoreline.
Where Speed Meets the Seaside
At the heart of Bike Week is Daytona International Speedway, where some of the biggest names in motorcycle racing take over the track. The action includes the high-flying DAYTONA Supercross, the season-opening Progressive American Flat Track DAYTONA Short Track I & II, and the legendary DAYTONA 200, a race that has tested riders for decades.
Even if you’re not a die-hard racing fan, the Speedway becomes a must-visit attraction during Bike Week. Harley-Davidson, the official motorcycle partner of the event, sets up an interactive area showcasing the newest bikes, organized rides, and immersive fan experiences. It’s also where visitors can grab the official Bike Week poster and pocket guide before heading out to explore the coast.
Beyond the Track: The Culture of Bike Week
Bike Week spills far beyond the Speedway and into nearly every corner of Volusia County.
Strolling down Main Street in Daytona Beach becomes a rite of passage, where bikes line the boulevard, music fills the air, and visitors come to see — and be seen. Nearby, the Riverfront Esplanade in downtown Daytona Beach offers a calmer contrast with waterfront views, restaurants, and shopping between rides.
In Midtown, the vibe turns soulful with live music and food vendors serving Southern and Caribbean flavors. Meanwhile, destinations like Teddy Morse’s Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach transform into biker playgrounds with dealerships, bars, restaurants, vendors, and nonstop entertainment.
For something different, travelers can stop by Ink the Bay: Daytona Beach Edition at the Ocean Center (March 6–8), where more than 300 tattoo artists gather for live tattooing, art showcases, competitions, and cultural displays — a popular crossover event for Bike Week visitors.
And of course, no trip is complete without cruising the coast. Scenic rides along the beach, visits to the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, the Pier, the Daytona 200 Monument, Ironhorse Saloon, and Boot Hill Outpost round out the classic Bike Week experience.
A Celebration of Freedom and Tradition
This year’s Bike Week carries special meaning, coinciding with the 85th anniversary of the event, the 150th anniversary of the City of Daytona Beach, and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
“Bike Week is a grand tradition that brings together riders and fans of all ages,” said Janet Kersey, Executive Vice President and COO. “With many new events, experiences, and activities planned, this all-American celebration will be one you simply have to experience in person.”
That spirit of freedom, heritage, and community is what keeps travelers coming back — from first-time visitors to families who have made Daytona Beach Bike Week part of their annual road trip.
Planning Your Bike Week Getaway
Accommodations fill quickly during Bike Week, but Daytona Beach offers everything from oceanfront resorts and boutique hotels to campgrounds, RV parks, and cozy beach cottages. Staying near the beach gives travelers easy access to riding routes, nightlife, and sunrise views over the Atlantic.
Between rides, visitors can explore Daytona’s famous beaches, coastal parks, waterfront dining, and historic attractions, turning Bike Week into a full vacation rather than just an event.
Daytona Beach Bike Week blends adventure travel, beach tourism, motorsports, nightlife, and Americana into one unforgettable escape. Whether you ride, spectate, or simply want to experience the energy, it’s one of Florida’s most iconic seasonal events — and a perfect excuse for a late-winter getaway.
For schedules and event details, visit officialbikeweek.com.
