New Smyrna Beach is a coveted destination known for its beautiful beaches, small-town feel, and welcoming community. This Florida city is also full of hidden gems to discover. From stunning parks, unique places for food, and art centers – NSB has a place for everyone. Let’s begin our guide to the hidden gems of New Smyrna Beach.
Little’s Drug Store on Canal Street
Looking for a blast from the past? Right on Canal Street, you may overlook this old building. Take a second glance: there is more than meets the eye!
This place is a unique and unforgettable experience. Not only can you pick up some home goods here, but you can grab a bite to eat. Drug stores added soda fountains in the 1920s after prohibition became law so that there was a place for communities to gather when there were no more (legal) bars. Establishments like this were common in the early 1900’s, but this is one of the few across the US that remains. The little diner inside has booths and the dishes are like they had in the 50’s. A delightful place for a treat!
An old-fashioned diner lets you enjoy breakfast and lunch specials. Donna Concannon goes on to rave about this establishment: “From the 1950s, it has remained intact and still offers the same selections since. It is a must-see for any burger fan and anyone looking to break their diet with a frothy milkshake or malt.”
Learn more about this gem here.
Smyrna Dunes Park
Not feeling a public beach? You have options!
On 73 acres of beautiful land where the Indian River empties into Ponce Inlet, Smyrna Dunes Park is the perfect spot to bring your dog if you’re on a coastal roadtrip down Florida or just a local! Don’t let the concept of a dog park fool you – there’s more than enough room for everyone and the natural tie to natural is worth a visit.
If your pup would rather stay home, there’s plenty of things to do for nature enthusiasts. The secluded beach offers a true tie to nature: swimming, fishing, and relaxing with the best that NSB has to offer. This amazing space offers many different ecosystems to explore such as ocean, marsh, and dunes – so don’t be afraid to slap on your walking shoes for a challenge too!
For $20 dollars, you can purchase an Inlet Park Pass that allows you a full year of visits, as opposed to $10 per vehicle.
Plan your next outing here.
The Atlantic Center for the Arts
Wanting to immerse yourself into a calming and beautiful space? The Atlantic Center for the Arts brings culture and style to our area! This Florida-based artist residence program showcases work and promotes acclaimed artists in their beautiful studio settings. Artists come here to attend master classes, learn through critiques and collaborate. Not only has this been a place for learning, but there is a space for community in the ACA plan too!
The ACA also focuses on providing classes, lectures, and camps for the NSB community. We love seeing this space utilized for the popular exhibits during the year. By stopping by one of these events, you’re able to experience unique views and beautiful work by Florida artists.
You can find upcoming events here.
New Smyrna Beach Brewing
A spacious and friendly brewery, you can expect fresh ales and friendly faces. Grab a flight to taste them all and get to know the Pilsner, wheats, goldens, and reds that make up the diverse selection of drinks.
Indoor and outdoor seating provides the ability to plan for intimate or big gatherings safely. You can bring your favorite pooch along, as this establishment is dog-friendly. The ability to stop by with family or sample some new delightful offerings on tap before committing keeps our NSB Homes team coming back for more!
Donna Concannon of NSB Homes stated: “New Smyrna Beach Brewing on Canal Street is our daily happy hour ‘meeting’ spot! We love the knowledgeable staff and tasty drinks. Our team has certified this as a remote office.”
If you want to learn more about the history, drinks, and hours click here.
Yellow Dog Eats
If you’re wanting to really step away from the ordinary beach food, Yellow Dog Eats is a funky business ready to serve you! Never before have I seen sweet potato tacos or sandwiches full of pecan-smoked bacon. Each meal is crafted with uniqueness and big portions in mind – you’ll definitely be taking home a Yellow Doggy Bag with leftovers.
Before you pick an old faithful, try walking on the wildside. We suggest the Holy Crap and the White Trash for those wanting to have a flavorful new go-to meal for years to come. The Yellow Dogs Eats staff works endlessly to provide the perfect, messiest, and satisfying sandwich you can have in NSB – it’s your job now to see if they’re up to snuff!
Yellow Dog Eats also offers outdoor and dog-friendly seating. Learn more about their business on their Facebook page.
Go Explore!
That isn’t all – we encourage you all to go out and explore all the wonderful things our city has to offer! You may find out there’s a new ‘regular’ or ‘favorite’ in your life after trying something new.