The Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of the Queen City's most popular attractions, having grown into an entertainment complex over the years.
The following guide provides visitors with what they to know before visiting the Charlotte Motor Speedway:
History
Charlotte Motor Speedway was designed and built in 1959 by NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee O. Bruton Smith. Over the years, it has had many innovative improvements, including the addition of a dining and entertainment facility, a revolutionary lighting system, a 20,000-square-foot garage area and condominiums that are located high above turn one.
The Dirt Track at Charlotte was completed across from the Speedway, where the stadium-style venue hosts Monster Trucks, Dirt Late Models and more.
Events and races
The Speedway hosts a full schedule of events, including the Bank of America 500, the World of Outlaws World Finals and a fun schedule of Bojangles' Summer Shootout events.
Check out the current schedule of events here.
Tours
A variety of tours are offered to help visitors see behind the scenes. They include the following:
Feel the Thrill Speedway Tour
Visit the garage area and ride through two infield race tracks. Patrons also get to go down Pit Road and take a photo on the Winner's Circle. A van ride lets you experience 24-degree banking, and you'll also get to tour the zMAX Dragway as well as The Dirt Track.
Over the Wall Tour
This option includes everything that's in the Feel the Thrill Tour and adds some additional stops. You'll view the Speedway from the press box, tour the Performance Racing Network studios and the Media Center and go down Pit Road.
Race week tours include the following:
Race Shop Tour
Tour the race shops, Hendrick Motorsports museum and Sam Bass Gallery.
Trackside Tram Tour
Check out pre-race activities and preparations on the track, pit road and motor coach lot and climb the Speedway's 24-degree banking.
Hall of Fame Tour
Take a trip through the NASCAR Hall of Fame and learn about the history of stock car racing and its drivers.
Things to do
In addition to the races and tours, you can also enjoy the following things to do at the Speedway:
- Driving schools
- Drag racing schools
- Fan Zone – pre-race vendors, displays and more
- Kids Zone – pre-race games and other activities for kids
- Fanatics Tent – race day souvenirs and gear
- Camping
Location
You'll find the Charlotte Motor Speedway at 5555 Concord Parkway S. in Concord.
It can be reached by from the south by taking I-85 to Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Boulevard). Turn right at the top of the ramp and go about a mile. The Speedway is located at the intersection of Bruton Smith Boulevard and U.S. 29.
From the north, take I-85 to Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Boulevard). Turn left at the top of the ramp and go about a mile. The Speedway is located at the intersection of Bruton Smith Boulevard and U.S. 29.
Visitors can reserve parking in advance for one or more days with Parkmobile by putting in the name of the event they'll be attending.
Tickets
Ticket prices vary, and when a multi-day event is held, can be purchased by the day or for the entire event. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or by calling 1-800-455-FANS (3267).