Experience the excitement of the Daytona International Speedway like a true pro with our expert tips. Our guide will help you make the most of your visit to one of the most famous tracks in the world, from avoiding traffic to finding the best food and drink options. With years of experience attending races at the Speedway, we have gathered valuable insights and knowledge that we want to share with you.
Whether you are a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a thrilling event to attend, our expert tips will help you navigate the venue with ease. From the top attractions to visit beyond the track to the best strategies for staying cool in the Florida sun, our guide has everything you need to know. Get ready to rev your engines and experience the thrill of the Daytona International Speedway like never before.
Arriving at the Track: Best Routes to Avoid Traffic
Getting to the Daytona International Speedway can be a challenge on race days, with heavy traffic and road closures. To help you avoid the frustration of sitting in traffic for hours, we have put together a guide to the best routes to take to the track.
Take the Back Roads
One of the best ways to avoid traffic is to avoid the main roads altogether. Instead of taking the highway, try taking some of the back roads that lead to the track. Some of the best options include LPGA Boulevard and International Speedway Boulevard, which can be accessed from I-95.
Arrive Early
Another way to avoid traffic is to get to the track early. Arriving at the track several hours before the race starts will not only give you time to find parking and get settled, but it will also help you avoid the worst of the traffic. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the track and enjoy the pre-race festivities.
Use Public Transportation
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of driving and parking at the track, consider using public transportation. The Votran bus service provides direct service to the Speedway on race days, with pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the Daytona Beach area. This is a great option for those staying in hotels or vacation rentals in the area, as it can save you the trouble of dealing with traffic and parking.
- Take the back roads to avoid main highways
- Arrive several hours early to avoid the worst of the traffic
- Use public transportation to avoid driving and parking hassles
By using these tips, you can avoid the worst of the traffic and arrive at the Daytona International Speedway ready to enjoy the race. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or attending your first race, these tips will help you make the most of your experience and avoid the headache of traffic delays.
Exploring the Venue: Top Attractions Beyond the Race Track
While the Daytona International Speedway is best known for its high-octane racing events, there are many other attractions to explore beyond the race track. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for some family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular attractions at the speedway is the Daytona 500 Experience, a museum and interactive exhibit that celebrates the history of the famous race. Here, you can see historic race cars, explore exhibits on the history of the sport, and even take part in racing simulations.
Other Must-See Attractions at the Speedway
- Richard Petty Driving Experience: Want to experience the thrill of driving on the same track as NASCAR pros? Take a spin around the speedway with a professional driver.
- UNOH Fanzone: Get up close and personal with the racing action at this fan zone, which features driver appearances, pre-race ceremonies, and interactive exhibits.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re looking for activities to enjoy with the whole family, there are plenty of options at the speedway. The Rolex 24 Lounge and Ferris Wheel is a great spot for families to relax and take in the racing action from a bird’s eye view. There’s also a Family Fun Zone featuring a variety of games and activities for kids of all ages.
Food and Drink Options: Recommendations for Hungry Fans
If you’re a foodie looking for delicious options beyond the typical stadium fare, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some great food and drink options that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
First off, for some authentic local flavor, try out Jimmy’s Famous Seafood. It’s a popular spot among Baltimore natives and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including their famous crab cakes. Another great option is The Food Market, which is known for their creative takes on classic dishes and use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Bars and Pubs:
- Max’s Taphouse: Known for their extensive selection of craft beers, Max’s Taphouse is a great spot for beer lovers.
- Bookmakers Cocktail Club: If you’re looking for a more upscale drinking experience, check out Bookmakers Cocktail Club. They offer a variety of classic and creative cocktails, as well as a small bites menu.
International Cuisine:
If you’re in the mood for something different, try out one of these international restaurants:
- Kooper’s Tavern: Kooper’s Tavern offers a variety of global cuisine options, including Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian-inspired dishes.
- Thai Restaurant: This cozy spot in Fells Point offers authentic Thai cuisine, including popular dishes like Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles.
There are plenty of food and drink options available in Baltimore, so make sure to explore and find your new favorite spot.
Surviving the Sun: Strategies for Staying Cool and Sunburn-Free
Summertime is a season to be enjoyed, but too much exposure to the sun can have serious consequences for your health. With temperatures soaring, it’s important to take steps to stay cool and protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Here are some strategies to help you stay comfortable and sunburn-free.
Firstly, always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours. If you plan to spend time in the water, make sure to use a water-resistant formula. Protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses can also help reduce sun exposure. Try to avoid spending time outdoors during peak sun hours, typically from 10 am to 4 pm. Seek out shaded areas or create your own with a sun umbrella or canopy.
Staying Cool
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you
- Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas
Sunburn Remedies
If you do end up with a sunburn, there are several remedies you can try to relieve the pain and promote healing. Apply cool compresses or take a cool bath to help soothe the skin. Aloe vera gel or lotion can also help reduce inflammation and redness. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help alleviate discomfort. Remember to avoid further sun exposure until your skin has fully healed.
Souvenirs and Memorabilia: Where to Find the Best Race Gear
Souvenirs and memorabilia are a great way to remember a thrilling racing event, but finding the best race gear can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from that can help you find exactly what you are looking for.
First, consider checking out the official merchandise stores at the racetrack. These stores offer a wide variety of race gear including t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs. You can also find unique items like die-cast cars, flags, and other memorabilia that can make great gifts for friends and family.
Online Stores
- Another option is to look for online stores that specialize in racing memorabilia. These stores offer a huge selection of race gear and souvenirs that can be purchased online and shipped directly to your home.
- Some of the most popular online stores include RacingUSA.com, NASCAR.com Superstore, and Fanatics. These websites offer a wide selection of racing merchandise, including apparel, die-cast cars, and accessories.
Auctions and Collectors
Finally, consider looking for racing memorabilia auctions and collectors. These options can be a bit more expensive, but they offer unique items that can’t be found anywhere else. Auctions can be a great way to find vintage racing memorabilia like programs, posters, and autographed items. Collectors can also help you find specific items you are looking for and may even be willing to trade or sell some of their own collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Daytona International Speedway open?
Daytona International Speedway typically opens at 9:00 a.m. on the day of an event. However, it is always best to check the schedule and specific event details for exact opening times.
What is the best time to arrive at Daytona International Speedway?
The best time to arrive at Daytona International Speedway is early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. This will give you plenty of time to park, explore the track, and find your seats before the event begins.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to Daytona International Speedway?
Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the grandstands at Daytona International Speedway. However, there are plenty of food and beverage options available inside the speedway, including concessions stands and restaurants.
What items are not allowed at Daytona International Speedway?
Prohibited items at Daytona International Speedway include firearms, knives, coolers, glass containers, drones, and umbrellas. For a full list of prohibited items, be sure to check the speedway’s website before attending an event.
Is parking available at Daytona International Speedway?
Parking is available at Daytona International Speedway for all events. However, parking options and prices may vary depending on the specific event. It is always best to check the speedway’s website for parking information and to purchase your parking pass in advance.