Deland is synonymous with artist Erica Group. She is a DeLand native with a great love for this wonderful city in West Volusia, located between Daytona Beach and Orlando.
After graduation, she moved back to DeLand. She put her degree to work.
Her most notable work is the DeLand Wings Mural she painted one block west of the 100s block of Woodland Blvd.
Following the viral success of the DeLand Wings, she was approached by The West Volusia Tourism Group and was asked to be their artist in residence. This sparked a campaign called #WingsofTheWest, where she illustrated and painted five additional wings murals in unique West Volusia locations. Each set of wings represents something about the location in which they’re found. So, get out there and explore beautiful West Volusia!
The DeLand Wings Mural received the honor of Best Local Children’s Attraction in 2018.
Suggested itinerary for a long weekend in delightful Deland:
Day One (Walkable)
Check into the historic DeLand Hotel
Stop by the West Volusia Visitor Center to get more information and maps
Tour the Museum of Art, which houses an amazing permanent collection and traveling exhibits
Embark on the Mural Walk and Sculpture Walk (agaian, the Visitor Center will provide maps, brochures). Plus, Erica Group’s wings (#DeLandWings) can be found all around!
Have your first-night dinner with the fam at De La Vega. Great for both small plates and large
Day Two (Drive)
Make your own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill at DeLeon Springs State Park
Head over to Blue Spring State Park and float on the St. John’s waters. You may see a manatee or two!
Tour the Lyonia Environmental Center – ask for Stephen for a most amazing tour
Escape into the Artisan Alley Farmer’s Market (Fridays only)
Day Three (Drive)
Have breakfast downtown at Mr. Bill’s
Tour the Barberville Pioneer Settlement, and learn how the first Volusia settlers lived.
Check out a live venom extraction demo and tour at the Reptile Discovery Center!
Tour the historical DeBary Hall. The historic property and home gives us a glimpse into historic Southern living.
Other lunch and dinner suggestions:
The Twisted Chopstick at Deland Hotel – https://www.thetwistedchopstick.com/
Byte – http://www.bytebistrodeland.com/
Half Wall – https://thehalfwall.com/
The Table – https://www.thetabledeland.com/
Chica’s Cuban Cafe’ – https://www.facebook.com/chicascubancafe/
Many thanks to Visit West Volusia!
Happy Travels 