Introduction
If you are a motorsports fan, you probably know what NASCAR is. With its renowned abbreviation, NASCAR holds the distinction of being the premier motorsport in the United States. Dominated by stock cars skillfully tweaked to attain unparalleled speed and performance, NASCAR races unfurl on captivating oval-shaped tracks. An adrenaline-fueled spectacle, these high-octane events draw legions of devoted fans and captivate the attention of millions of spectators year-round.
did you know that NASCAR races are not held on the same track every time?
Instead, there are dozens of different tracks spread across the country, each with its distinctive characteristics, challenges, and attractions.
Tracks across the NASCAR circuit boast unique features that make them legendary in their own right. Moreover, they have left an indelible mark in racing history through historic moments, thrilling conclusions, and unforgettable collisions. Each track offers a unique experience, with high banks, challenging drivers, and long stretches testing speed limits. Additionally, NASCAR’s influence extends beyond American borders, as tracks in Canada and Mexico proudly host races that captivate fans worldwide.
To experience the thrill of NASCAR racing in person, consider visiting these tracks and witnessing them firsthand.
No matter your preference, these venues cater to all—live races, facility tours, or driving experiences. This guide explores NASCAR tracks across the three main series: NASCAR Cup, Xfinity, and Camping World Truck.
Get ready to discover their locations, unique attributes, hosted races, and essential tips for your visit.
The NASCAR Cup Series is the top level of NASCAR racing, showcasing the sport’s best drivers, teams, and cars. The Cup Series consists of 36 races per season, held on 23 tracks across 19 states. The tracks vary in length, shape, and surface, offering a variety of challenges and excitement for drivers and fans. Here are some of the most famous and popular tracks in the Cup Series:
Daytona International Speedway
Location, history, and features
The renowned Daytona International Speedway can be found in the picturesque city of Daytona Beach, nestled in the sunny state of Florida. This iconic NASCAR track hosted the first race in 1959 and has hosted the annual Daytona 500 ever since. The track is a 2.5-mile tri-oval with 31-degree banking in the turns and 18-degree banking in the tri-oval. The track has a 3.56-mile road course for events like the Rolex 24 endurance race.
Famous races and events
Daytona International Speedway hosts the prestigious Daytona 500, a race that stands as the pinnacle of glory and popularity in NASCAR. The Daytona 500 is renowned for its close finishes, dramatic crashes, and historic moments. Notable moments include Richard Petty’s 1981 win, Dale Earnhardt’s 1998 victory, and Denny Hamlin’s thrilling finish in 2016. Additionally, the track hosts various NASCAR races throughout the year. The events include the Coke Zero Sugar 400 in July. The Busch Clash exhibition takes place in February. The Bluegreen Vacations Duel serves as the Daytona 500 qualifier.
Tips for visiting
To visit Daytona International Speedway, plan and book tickets and accommodations early, as they sell out quickly. When traveling to Florida, check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for the fluctuating conditions. Additionally, bring earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes to endure the thunderous roars, blazing sun, and long walks. In addition, make sure to capitalize on the fantastic fan amenities available at the track. Explore the captivating FanZone, granting you an up-close glimpse of the garages, pit road, and illustrious victory lane. Don’t miss out on the exhilarating Daytona International Speedway Tours. Experience thrilling track rides and visit the esteemed Motorsports Hall of Fame of America on these tours.
Talladega Superspeedway
Location, history, and features
Talladega Superspeedway is located in Lincoln, Alabama. This NASCAR track holds the record as the longest and fastest, spanning 2.66 miles and exceeding 200 mph. In 1969, NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. aimed to surpass Daytona Speedway, resulting in a remarkable tri-oval layout. The track offers a captivating 2.66-mile infield road course that hosts a range of exhilarating events, which adds to its appeal.
Famous races and events
Talladega Superspeedway is renowned for its unpredictable and exciting races, characterized by large packs, frequent passes, and lead changes. Renowned for awe-inspiring crashes known as “The Big One,” Talladega Superspeedway hosts two highly anticipated NASCAR Cup Series races annually. The April race is the GEICO 500, followed by the October race, the YellaWood 500. Fans can enjoy other races like the Ag-Pro 300 Xfinity Series and Chevrolet Silverado 250 Truck Series.
If you want to visit Talladega Superspeedway, you should be prepared for a wild and fun experience. For a safe, enjoyable track experience, learn the essential safety rules and regulations. Adhering to proper attire and refraining from carrying prohibited items are important. Additionally, follow traffic instructions and show respect towards fellow fans. Pack earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes to offset loud noises, strong sun, and long walks.
Furthermore, explore the remarkable fan amenities offered at the track. Immerse yourself in the captivating Talladega Garage Experience, granting you an up-close encounter with the drivers and their awe-inspiring cars. Explore motorsports history at the International Hall of Fame Museum, home to historic vehicles and prized memorabilia.
Bristol Motor Speedway
Location, history, and features
Bristol Motor Speedway, located in Bristol, Tennessee, is one of NASCAR’s shortest yet most challenging tracks, measuring only 0.533 miles. The steep banking of 24 to 28 degrees in the turns adds to the challenge. Built-in 1960 by Larry Carrier and Carl Moore, it aimed to attract fans from Tennessee and Virginia. The track is nicknamed “The Last Great Colosseum” because of its amphitheater-like design that can seat up to 162,000 spectators.
Famous races and events
Throughout the year, the track hosts several thrilling NASCAR races. These include the Food City 300 Xfinity Series race and the UNOH 200 Truck Series race.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Location, history, and features
The iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, situated in Speedway, Indiana, stands as a testament to the rich legacy of motorsports. Established in 1909, it holds the honor of being one of the oldest and most esteemed tracks in the history of motor racing. The track spans 2.5 miles and features a distinctive rectangular oval configuration. Within the turns, drivers encounter subtle 9-degree banking, while the straights remain flat with 0-degree banking. Moreover, the track boasts an impressive 2.439-mile road course. This versatile layout accommodates various events, including the Indianapolis 500 IndyCar race. Earning its renowned moniker, “The Brickyard,” the track’s history is embedded in its surface. The start/finish line showcases the enduring legacy of the original brick pavement. It’s a testament to the track’s storied past and unwavering spirit.
Famous races and events
Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the Brickyard 400, one of the most coveted races in NASCAR. The Brickyard 400 was first held in 1994 and was the first stock car race at the track. The race is esteemed for its prestige, tradition, and difficulty. Drivers must manage high speeds, tight corners, and tire wear. The track hosts several NASCAR races throughout the year. These include the Pennzoil 150 Xfinity Series and Indiana 250 Truck Series races.
Tips for visiting
Planning a visit to Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Please book your tickets and accommodations early, as they sell out quickly. Be sure to consult the weather forecast for Indiana to prepare for the region’s unpredictable weather patterns. Don’t forget essentials like earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Comfortable shoes are crucial, too. Expect resounding roars, dazzling sunbeams, and plenty of walking at this lively track.
Moreover, make it a point to explore the enticing fan amenities available. Experience the vibrant ambiance at the Fan Midway. Here, an array of delectable food, entertaining diversions, and esteemed driver appearances await. For a trip through racing history, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a must-visit. Its collection of historic cars and trophies provides an immersive experience, paying homage to the sport’s illustrious past.
Martinsville Speedway
Location, history, and features
Located in Martinsville, Virginia, Martinsville Speedway is one of the oldest and shortest tracks in NASCAR, dating back to 1947. The track assumes the form of a paperclip-shaped oval spanning 0.526 miles. Within the turns, drivers navigate distinctive 12-degree banking while the straights maintain flat, 0-degree banking. Notably, the track’s allure stems from the contrasting textures it offers—a combination of concrete corners and asphalt straightaways. This amalgamation of surfaces contributes to a truly one-of-a-kind racing experience. The track offers a unique symbol of victory—an iconic grandfather clock trophy. This esteemed accolade is given to race winners as a timeless reminder of their accomplishments.
Famous races and events
Martinsville Speedway is renowned for its close-quarters racing, hard braking, and bumping-and-running tactics. These often lead to bent fenders and heated tempers. Martinsville Speedway hosts two NASCAR Cup Series races annually. The Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 500 is in April, and the Xfinity 500, a playoff race, is in October. Besides these, the Cook Out 250 and Hall of Fame 200 Truck Series occur yearly.
Tips for visiting
To visit Martinsville Speedway, you should be prepared for a classic and authentic NASCAR experience. Consider traffic conditions and parking available due to the track’s rural setting when planning your visit. Also, pack essentials like earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes to counter loud noises, sunlight, and extensive walks. Furthermore, make it a point to explore and discover the myriad offerings at the track.
Explore fan amenities like the Fan Entertainment Plaza for live music, interactive displays, and driver appearances. Also, visit the Martinsville Speedway Museum for historic cars and memorabilia.
The NASCAR Xfinity Series Tracks
The NASCAR Xfinity Series, a second-tier NASCAR racing event, showcases rising stars, veterans, and part-time participants. The Xfinity Series consists of 33 races per season, held on 26 tracks across 20 states. The tracks vary in length, shape, and surface, offering a variety of challenges and excitement for drivers and fans. Here are some of the most famous and popular tracks in the Xfinity Series:
Road America
Location, history, and features
Road America is located in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. At 4.048 miles with 14 turns, this is one of North America’s longest, most scenic road courses. Built in 1955 by Clif Tufte, the track replaced public roads for racing. It’s renowned for its elevation changes, high-speed corners, and long straightaways.
Famous races and events
Road America is renowned for its competitive racing. Drivers face challenges like braking, shifting, and passing on the diverse course. The track hosts one NASCAR Xfinity Series race annually: the Henry 180 in August. In addition, the track hosts various racing events annually. These include the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, and SCCA National Championship Runoffs.
Tips for visiting
To ensure a pleasant experience when visiting Road America, you should be ready for a fun and relaxing time. It’s crucial to consider the ever-changing weather conditions in Wisconsin and pack accordingly. The state is known for its hot and humid summers, as well as its cold and snowy winters. Additionally, when attending the track, remember to bring essentials like earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes. You’ll experience roaring sounds, bright sun rays, and extensive walking.
Moreover, explore the enticing fan amenities available at the track. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Fan Zone, offering delectable food, captivating entertainment, and a chance to see your favorite drivers. Alternatively, visit the Road America Motorplex for thrilling go-karting or bike rentals for an exciting adventure.
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Location, history, and features
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is located in Lexington, Ohio. Road America is a technical and challenging road course in North America. It measures 2.258 miles with 13 turns. Built-in 1962 by Les Griebling, the track aimed to attract sports car enthusiasts. The track is famous for its elevation changes, blind corners, and off-camber turns.
Famous races and events
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is known for its tight and tactical racing, as drivers have to deal with braking, cornering, and overtaking on the demanding course. The track hosts one NASCAR Xfinity Series race annually: the B&L Transport 170 in June. The track also hosts other racing events throughout the year, such as the IndyCar Series, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and the AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.
Tips for visiting
If you want to visit the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, you should be ready for a thrilling and adventurous experience. When planning your visit, it’s crucial to take into account the fluctuating weather conditions in Ohio and pack accordingly. The state experiences hot and humid summers, as well as cold and rainy springs and falls. Additionally, don’t forget to bring along earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes to shield yourself from thunderous roars, intense sunlight, and the need for extended walks. Furthermore, make sure to explore the multitude of attractions available at the track.
The fan amenities at the track, such as the Midway, where you can enjoy food, merchandise, and driver appearances, or the Mid-Ohio School, where you can learn driving skills or ride with a professional instructor.
Watkins Glen International
Location, history, and features
The track showcases its prowess with a remarkable configuration comprising 11 thrilling turns, spanning across a captivating 2.45-mile course. Furthermore, the track boasts an additional 3.4-mile course that serves as a venue for various events, including the highly acclaimed IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Notably, the track has earned its fame through a combination of high-speed corners, expansive straightaways, and breathtaking scenic vistas, ensuring a truly exhilarating experience for both drivers and spectators alike.
Watkins Glen International is known for its fast and exciting racing, as drivers must handle speed, braking, and passing on the challenging course. The track hosts one NASCAR Xfinity Series race annually: the Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey 200 in August. The track also hosts other racing events throughout the year, such as the NASCAR Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen race, the IndyCar Series Grand Prix at The Glen race, and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival.
Tips for visiting
To visit Watkins Glen International, you should be ready for an enjoyable experience. To ensure a delightful experience, travelers should consider the ever-changing weather conditions in New York and pack accordingly. The state is known for its hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. Additionally, don’t forget to bring earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes to shield yourself from the resounding roars, intense sunlight, and the need for extended walks. Furthermore, make sure to make the most of the fantastic fan amenities at the track. Indulge in the excitement of the Fan Walks, granting you exclusive access to the bustling garages, vibrant pit road, and the celebrated victory lane. For a journey through racing history, visit the Watkins Glen International Museum, where you can marvel at historic cars and cherished memorabilia that pay homage to the sport’s rich heritage.
The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Tracks
The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series is the third-highest level of NASCAR racing. It showcases modified pickup trucks with high speeds and performance on different tracks. The Truck Series consists of 22 races per season, held on 19 tracks across 15 states. The tracks vary in length, shape, and surface, offering a variety of challenges and excitement for drivers and fans. Here are some of the most famous and popular tracks in the Truck Series:
Eldora Speedway
Location, history, and features
The track showcases its unique configuration, encompassing a 0.5-mile clay oval adorned with formidable banking of 24 degrees in the turns and 8 degrees on the straights. Notably, the track entered a new chapter in 2004 when it was acquired by the revered NASCAR icon, Tony Stewart. Driven by a passion to uphold and uplift the realm of dirt racing in the region, Stewart’s ownership has been instrumental in preserving and promoting the sport’s legacy. The track has become renowned for its awe-inspiring spectacle characterized by blistering speeds, skillful car slides, and the mesmerizing sight of flying mud, further solidifying its status as a beloved destination for racing enthusiasts.
Eldora Speedway is known for its adventurous and unpredictable racing, as drivers must deal with traction, handling, and visibility on the slippery surface. The track hosts one NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race annually: the Corn Belt 150 in July. The track also hosts other racing events throughout the year, such as the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Kings Royal race, the Dirt Late Model Dream race, and the Eldora Dirt Derby race.
Tips for visiting
To visit Eldora Speedway, you should be ready for a wild and dirty experience. For a comfortable experience, travelers must consider the variable weather conditions in Ohio and pack accordingly. The state experiences hot and humid summers, as well as cold and rainy springs and falls. Additionally, it is recommended to bring along essential items such as earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes to shield yourself from the resounding noises, intense sunlight, and the need for extended walks. Moreover, explore the diverse range of fan amenities available at the venue.
The track, such as the Fan Zone, where you can enjoy food, entertainment, and driver appearances, or the Eldora Speedway Museum, where you can see historic cars and artifacts.
Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
Location, history, and features
Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is located in Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the most challenging and scenic road courses in North America, measuring 2.459 miles in length and featuring 10 turns. The track was built in 1961 by John Magill and Alan Bunting, who wanted to create a road course to attract international racing events to Canada. The track is famous for its elevation changes, fast corners, and long straightaways.
Famous races and events
Canadian Tire Motorsport Park has gained recognition for its intense and varied racing experiences. Drivers are challenged by the need for precise braking, skillful cornering, and strategic overtaking on this demanding circuit, making it a true test of their racing prowess. The track hosts one NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race annually: the Chevrolet Silverado 250 in September. The track also hosts other racing events throughout the year, such as the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Mobil 1 SportsCar Grand Prix race, the NASCAR Pinty’s Series Clarington 200 race, and the Canadian Superbike Championship Mopar Canadian Superbike Doubleheader race.
Tips for visiting
To visit Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, you should be ready for a fun and enjoyable experience. You should also know the weather conditions and pack accordingly, as Ontario can have hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. You should
also bring earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes, as you will be exposed to loud noises, bright sun, and long walks. It would help if you also took advantage of the fan amenities at the track, such as the Grand Prix Club, where you can enjoy food, beverages, and live entertainment, or the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame, where you can see historic cars and memorabilia.
Knoxville Raceway
Location, history, and features
Knoxville Raceway is located in Knoxville, Iowa. It is one of the most famous and popular dirt tracks in North America, dating back to 1954. With its distinct configuration, the track presents a 0.5-mile clay oval with 8-degree banking in the turns and 4-degree banking on the straights. Renowned as “The Sprint Car Capital of the World,” the track boasts an illustrious legacy deeply intertwined with the thrilling world of sprint car racing. The venue also offers a 0.25-mile dirt oval, adding to its allure and a versatile setting for various events, including the exhilarating Knoxville Championship Cup Series.
Famous races and events
Knoxville Raceway is known for its fast and exciting racing, as drivers must deal with speed, traction, and passing on dusty surfaces. The track hosts one NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race annually: the Corn Belt 150 in July. The track also hosts other racing events, such as the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Knoxville Nationals race, the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Knoxville Late Model Nationals race, and the Knoxville 360 Nationals race.
Tips for visiting
To visit Knoxville Raceway, you should be ready for a loud and thrilling experience. You should also know the weather conditions and pack accordingly, as Iowa can have hot and humid summers and cold
and snowy winters. You should also bring earplugs, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and comfortable shoes, as you will be exposed to loud noises, bright sun, and long walks. You should also check out the fan amenities at the track, such as the Fan Zone, where you can enjoy food, merchandise, and driver appearances, or the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, where you can see historic cars and trophies.
Conclusion
NASCAR is a sport that offers many variety and excitement for drivers and fans. Many tracks host NASCAR races nationwide, each with its characteristics, challenges, and attractions. Whether you want to watch a race live, take a tour of the facilities, or even drive a race car yourself, there is something for everyone at these venues. In this article, we have given you the ultimate guide to the NASCAR tracks list, covering the three main series: the NASCAR Cup Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series, and the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. We hope this article has helped you learn more about these tracks and inspired you to visit some of them in person.
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FAQs
Q: How can I buy tickets for NASCAR races?
A: You can buy tickets for NASCAR races online through the official websites of the tracks or authorized ticket sellers. Tickets are also available for purchase directly at the track’s box offices on the day of the event, depending on their availability.
Q: How can I watch NASCAR races on TV or online?
A: You can watch NASCAR races on TV through various networks, such as FOX, FS1, NBC, and NBCSN. You can also watch NASCAR races online through various streaming services, such as FOX Sports Go, NBC Sports App, Peacock Premium, and NASCAR.com.
Q: How can I follow NASCAR news and updates?
A: You can follow NASCAR news and updates through various sources, such as NASCAR.com, social media platforms, podcasts, magazines, and blogs.
Q: How can I become a NASCAR driver?
A: You can become a NASCAR driver by following a series of steps, such as obtaining a racing license, joining a racing team or school, competing in local or regional races, advancing to national or international races, and applying for a NASCAR membership.
Q: How can I support my favorite NASCAR driver or team?
A: You can support your favorite NASCAR driver or team by cheering for them at the races, wearing their merchandise, joining their fan clubs or communities, sending them messages or gifts, or donating to their charities or causes.
