As the name would suggest, it is the “World’s Largest Speedway.” A place where auto racing enthusiasts can come together to watch some of the most exciting races in the world. Opened in 1909, the track has seen its share of famous faces. Many drivers have gone on to become household names, with household names the best kind of names to have at a racetrack.
The following is a short list of what you can find at the world’s largest speedway:
Events
There are numerous events held at Speedway each year. Some are historical reruns of races that took place in the ‘80s, ‘90s, or early 2000s, while others are focused on the present day and feature exciting new cars and drivers. If you’re a fan of stock car racing, then this is the place to be (except during the summer months).
On the eve of each race weekend, there is a preview night, where fans can see the drivers and cars, hear the commentary, and participate in some fashion. The most popular event at Speedway is the Triple Crown, which consists of the Triple Crown Challenge, the King’s Crown, and the Sprint Cup. The events take place on one of the last three Sundays in August, and they draw huge crowds of people who come to see the biggest names in motorsports compete for glory.
Famous Places
If you have a trip planned to Louisville, don’t forget to add a stop at the historic track. You’ll find a little bit of everything—from great dining and lots of live music to antique stores and shopping malls. There’s also a small museum devoted to the humble beginnings of the automobile industry in Louisville. If you’re looking for a little bit of American history, this is the place to be.
One of the most recognizable buildings at Speedway is the Pagoda—it was the home of legendary motorcyclist and Indianapolis 500 winner Barney Oldfield. The structure, which debuted in 1937, was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and features a unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural elements. In the late ‘60s, the Pagoda was the site of the iconic “Light the Blue Touch Paper” night, where fans would pour into the street to watch the luminaries outside the building light candles and sparklers. These days, the pagoda is a bit of a tourist destination, with guided tours available to those who want to see inside.
Diners
For those looking for some post-racing dinner entertainment, Speedway is the place to be. A trip to the world’s largest speedway is certainly an event in and of itself. After you’ve eaten and drunk your fill, you can head over to the Crown Point Center and see a movie or catch a comedy show at the Kentucky Theater. There are also numerous chain restaurants and bars located on the grounds. A day at the races has come to an end, but rest assured there are plenty more where that came from.
Shopping
If you’re looking to buy a vintage car, antique store owner Larry Lee has you covered. Larry is a member of the Vintage Car Collectors Association, and his love for cars and trucks runs deep. He has amassed a massive collection of cars and trucks over the years and spends his free time restoring them. Many of the cars and trucks he sells are one-of-a-kind pieces, and he doesn’t just sell cars, either. He also has an inventory of other vintage vehicles, from motorcycles and boats to planes and tractors. If you want to find something specific, he is the man to go to.
An Exciting Venue
Speedway is one of the most exciting venues you’ll find, period. The grandstands are packed on event days, and it doesn’t rain often enough to make a difference. The track is just a couple of hours from pretty much anywhere, so it’s an easy trip for those who want to get away for the weekend. Those who love fast cars and lots of excitement might consider this a trip they’ll never forget.
Accommodations
For those visiting Louisville on business or pleasure, there are lots of luxurious options. Stay at the Louisville Marriott Downtown, for instance, and you’ll be within walking distance of the many historic sites, eateries, and shopping centers the city has to offer. From there, you can travel to the speedway comfortably by car or bus.
Another option is the Brown Hotel. This iconic hotel, which opened its doors in 1917, provides a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. The spacious, comfortable rooms at the hotel feature wall-to-wall windows and high ceilings, making for a beautiful view of the city nightlife. Although the hotel’s rich history is reason enough to stay there, the property’s position in the middle of the city center provides easy access to everything.
There are numerous other luxury hotels and motels located throughout the city. With all this competition for business, it would be a shame to stay at a hotel that doesn’t provide the best possible service.
More Than Meets The Eye
At the end of the day, what else is there? If you’re a car or motorcycle enthusiast, then the world’s largest speedway is the ultimate bucket list item. A trip to the track isn’t just about racing, eating ice cream, and attending a concert. There’s plenty more to do there.
Take some time off work, grab some friends, and make a plan to attend one of the most historical events in the country. It wouldn’t be a trip to Louisville if you didn’t visit the amazing Pagoda, and it wouldn’t be a visit to the city if you didn’t eat at Arby’s. But the real adventure begins once you’re inside the gates of the historic track.