Edgewater Travel Guide

Explore the best of Edgewater, Florida with our travel guide featuring top attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Edgewater

Edgewater, located in Volusia County, Florida, is a beautiful city that’s been referred to as the “hidden gem” of Florida. With its serene beaches, lush parks, and countless recreational activities, Edgewater is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike.

Furthermore, Edgewater boasts some historic sites, museums, and art galleries that cater to the culturally inclined. In this travel guide, we have curated recommendations for the top things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Edgewater so that you can plan your perfect trip to the city.

List of Places to Visit in Edgewater

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eldora State House: This historic house dates back to 1913 and was constructed by a renowned architect, J. Carroll Johnson. The house is now a museum that offers an insight into the lifestyle of people in the early 20th century.

  • Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park: The Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park is an excellent way to educate yourself and your family about the unique natural eco-system in Florida. The park has several trails winding through mangroves and other critical habitats where you might spot Florida manatees, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, and more.

  • Turtle Mound: The Turtle Mound is another historical site that has a rich past. It is a pre-Columbian archaeological site located on a large shell mound. Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.

Natural Attractions of Edgewater: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Canaveral National Seashore: The Canaveral National Seashore is a vast, undeveloped beach and wildlife haven that’s known for its natural beauty. Go for a drive down the scenic route, fish, swim, hike, or simply relax by the beach, this place has it all!

  • J.B’s Fish Camp & Restaurant: J.B.’s Fish Camp & Restaurant is a go-to option for seafood and fishing excursions. The restaurant offers rental boats and fishing equipment to explore the nearby Indian River an enjoyable and authentic Floridian experience.

  • Menard Memorial Park: Menard Memorial Park is a community park featuring beautiful trails, recreational spaces, picnic areas, and breath-taking scenery. It is a perfect spot for family outings and sporting events.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Edgewater

  • Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve: This beautiful preserve offers 2,500 acres of marshes, creeks, scrub, and pine flatwoods. The place has an extensive network of hiking, bike, and horse trails for visitors to explore.

  • Edgewater Park: Edgewater Park provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the Indian River Lagoon while enjoying some fresh air. The park features a riverfront walkway that stretches over 3000 feet, making it a perfect spot for joggers, walkers, and bicyclists alike.

Best Things to Do in Edgewater: Activities and Tours

  • Epic Theatres: Epic Theatres is Edgewater’s premier destination for moviegoers, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and an extensive line-up of films.

  • Edgewater Lanes: Edgewater Lanes is a family-friendly bowling alley with excellent service, comfortable amenities, and the best place to spend your off-days in Edgewater.

  • Gravity Play: Gravity Play is the place to go if you are looking to do something more adventurous in Edgewater. They are specialized in organizing outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and even paragliding tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Edgewater

Day Activity
Day 1 Start with the Turtle Mound, followed by a visit to Canaveral National Seashore.
Day 2 Edgewater Park followed by an afternoon of indoor entertainment at Epic Theaters.
Day 3 Head to Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve for some quality hiking and nature spotting.
Day 4 Explore Eldora State House and pack some lunch to have at Menard Memorial Park.
Day 5 Enjoy a day of water activities with J.B.’s Fish Camp & Restaurant.
Day 6 Spend your day Exploring Edgewater by bike or attend board games with friends and family at Edgewater Lanes.
Day 7 End your afternoon with Gravity Play’s outdoor activities. Paragliding, anyone?

Food and Drink Scene of Edgewater

Must-Try Dishes

  • Garlic Crab- Florida is known for its seafood, and Garlic Crab is a must-try for any seafood lover!
  • Fresh Catch Tacos- Fish Tacos are the quintessential food in Florida. Try the fresh catch taco from Breakers Seaside Café for the best taco in town.
  • BBQ- Casey’s NSB Bar & Grill is famous for its mouth-watering ribs and smoked meats.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Brews- Head over to Gnarly Barley for the ultimate craft beer experience.
  • Cocktails- The Half Wall Daytona Beach is a popular spot for delicious cocktails

Where to Stay in Edgewater: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Edgewater Hotel: The Edgewater Hotel is a luxurious hotel located near the coast, offering a spa, outdoor heated pool, and comfortable accommodations.

  • Lighthouse Inn: Lighthouse Inn is a budget hotel located near the Edgewater city center, featuring a swimming pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

  • Coastal Waters Inn: The Coastal Waters Inn is a beachfront hotel offering its guests stunning views of the ocean and comfortable accommodation options.

What to Buy in Edgewater: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Beachwear: Edgewater’s beaches offer a plethora of options for beachwear from hats to beach blankets, you’ll love this beachy souvenir.
  • Seafood: Pack a sample of the fresh and tasty seafood found in the Edgewater area for friends and family back home.
  • **Artwork **: Visiting one of the many galleries around the city, Edgewater’s art scene has much to offer, from paintings to pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Edgewater

The people of Edgewater are warm and welcoming. They have a unique appreciation for nature, taking pride in the preservation of the environment and supporting eco-friendly practices.

Best Time to Visit Edgewater

The best time to visit Edgewater is from March to May. The weather is warm, and you can enjoy fun-filled outdoor adventures without getting overwhelmed by Florida’s heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Edgewater

Do:

  • Do visit some of the natural attractions of the city, including the beaches, river tours, and parks.
  • Do carry food and drinks with you on your hiking or biking trails.
  • Do research on some local restaurants that offer seafood and other mouth-watering cuisines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave the city without experiencing the rich history and culture of the town.
  • Don’t litter in the parks or the water bodies, and avoid smoking in non-designated areas.
  • Don’t underestimate Florida’s Sun, always use sunblock and hat while going outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Edgewater

Overall, Edgewater is a safe city, and visitors can feel relatively secure walking around the town. However, like any other city, it is always best practice to be cautious in areas with little or no lighting at night.

Health in Edgewater

Healthwise, it is essential to stay hydrated during your outdoor adventures and always pack some sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Florida sun.

Getting to Edgewater: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Edgewater

The nearest airports to Edgewater are Daytona Beach International Airport and Orlando International Airport. Both airports offer shuttle services, rental cars, and taxis.

Bus Stations Near Edgewater

The closest bus station to Edgewater is the Smyrna Transit Station, which is serviced by the Votran bus network.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can make travel arrangements in advance with companies like Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in Edgewater

The best way to explore Edgewater is by renting a car. However, the city has a well-connected public transit system Votran, which runs from 5 am to 10 pm daily.

Where to Go Next from Edgewater: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Smyrna Beach: The ideal destination for beach lovers, offering white-sand beaches, water sports, and beachside restaurants just 5 miles away from Edgewater.

  • Orlando: Known as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is only an hour’s drive away, so if you’re interested in roller-coasters and childhood memories, head to Orlando for a day trip.

  • Titusville: Explore the Kennedy Space Center or enjoy a scenic Airboat ride, Titusville is 30 minutes away, making it a perfect plan for a one-day trip.

Conclusion

Edgewater is an ideal location not only for relaxation but also for thrill-seekers looking to explore Florida’s nature and local culture. With its numerous natural attractions, cultural spots, and outdoor activities, Edgewater is an excellent vacation spot for all ages and interests. We hope this comprehensive tour guide of Edgewater has helped you plan your perfect trip!

Edgewater City Hall Edgewater City Hall View from median strip of US-1 in Oak Hill View from median strip of US-1 in Oak Hill