The loud noises, the blinding lights, and the endless chatter of people—it’s safe to say that the great American racing strip is not for the faint of heart. But all of that drama and excitement have become a part of American culture, and it’s well worth the risk of heartbreak to live your dreams on the pavement.
It’s no secret that racing is one of the most popular sports in the United States. From the Indianapolis 500 to NASCAR, millions of Americans tune in to watch their favorite drivers battling it out on the track. And it’s not hard to understand why—a well-executed drive on the part of a charismatic driver can make for one exciting television moment.
The question is: how much do you have to spend to make it worth your while racing at the motorsport venue of your choice? We’ve put together a guide to help you make the right decision regarding your racing dollars, so you can have an enjoyable yet profitable experience.
Which Track Is The Best For My Specific Budget?
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right track for your budget. First, track size and layout are important, as are the types of racing events that take place there. For instance, if you have a smaller budget but you want to race on an oval, you may want to look into a minor-league park or an alternative track.
Next, you’ll want to think about whether to go to a traditional banked track or a dirt one. Concrete and asphalt are much easier and more affordable to maintain than dirt, so it’s more common to find banked tracks around the country. These types of tracks are usually more expensive to enter, but they also offer more grip for the cars, which can lead to more exciting races.
Is My Favorite Driver On The Schedule This Year?
Another consideration to make is whether or not your favorite driver is scheduled to race at the track. If so, that can make or break a racing trip to you. You’ll be glued to the television set or to the computer screen, desperately trying to discern which driver will come out on top. A lot of money can be on the line, so if you’re a true NASCAR fan and your driver of choice is racing at a track near you this year, make sure to go watch him in person. The same goes for the Indy 500 and the Daytona 500.
Can I Get A Good Seats Location?
Another key consideration is whether or not you can get a good seats location. The location of your seats will have a dramatic impact on the overall feel and tone of your night out at the track. If money is no object to you and you want to sit in the middle of the action, go for the big races—the ones that take place at a banked track. The further back you sit, the more you’ll feel the ‘rush’ of the engines and the speed of the cars as they charge down the track.
How Much Does It Cost To Park There?
One of the most important considerations to make before heading to the track is how much does it cost to park there? Depending on where you park and how far you walk to your seats, you may or may not decide that it’s not worth it. If you have a large truck or a sports car that takes up a lot of room, you may want to consider other options. For example, does the garage offer a complimentary shuttle service to the guests? Does the ticket booth accept credit cards?
What Should I Pack?
When traveling to the track, you’ll need to bring your passport, visa (if necessary), credit card, and your toothbrush (just in case). Beyond that, you’ll need to decide what else you might need. What type of clothes do you need for the type of event you’re going to? What gadgets and entertainment do you need for the type of trip you’re planning?
As you think about your necessities, consider what type of atmosphere you want to bring to your visit. Do you want to go to a high-energy track where everyone is buzzing and talking? Or would you rather visit a more tranquil place where the atmosphere is more laid back? These are all questions you need to ask yourself before setting out on your journey. If there’s one thing that the great American racing scene has proven, it’s that your budget can be flexible enough to include pretty much anything you desire. With a little bit of planning and research, you can have an enjoyable yet profitable experience that will make the great American racing scene proud to call you a fan.