ORLANDO, Fla. — Daytona Beach, known for its high-speed racing culture, experiences an economic surge during events like the annual Rolex 24.
According to the Daytona Beach Area Convention Visitors Bureau, Volusia County welcomed over 10 million visitors in 2022, with events like the Rolex 24 playing a significant role in this influx.
Lee Martin is a waiter at Hampton’s Restaurant, a local establishment that has been serving patrons since 1957. Martin revealed that their famous fried chicken keeps customers coming back, making them a staple in the community.
Hampton’s, adorned with NASCAR memorabilia and a 1950s theme, sees a substantial increase in patrons during major events like the Rolex 24. Pit crews, race car drivers, and fans from around the world flock to the restaurant, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
“We have had a lot of the pit crews in, race car drivers in the past, as you see. We have lots of memorabilia. My boss is a big race fan, and we have people from all over the world. When it’s race week, they love it,” says Martin.
The positive impacts on businesses are evident, as events like the Rolex 24 bring both new faces and regulars to Hampton’s. The Daytona Beach community thrives during these times, with the restaurant experiencing a noticeable influx of customers.
“We see a nice influx — we have a lot of extras, but we also have our regulars that come in, and some days it’s full,” said Martin.
Despite the bustling activity, the staff at Hampton’s takes pride in recognizing their returning customers by name while eagerly welcoming new faces.
Owned by Barry Moore and located just a five-minute drive from Daytona’s International Speedway, Hampton’s Restaurant stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between local businesses and major racing events.
As the engines roar during the Rolex 24, establishments like Hampton’s continue to play a vital role in shaping Daytona Beach’s cultural and economic landscape.