If you’re headed to Bristol Motor Speedway this summer, you might be wondering what the best way to leave the racetrack is. With hotels, motels, and Airbnb houses lining the sides of I-55, you won’t have a hard time finding a place to stay. With so much choice, it might be hard to know exactly where to go. With that in mind, we’ve gone ahead and curated this handy guide for you. Here’s what exit is Bristol Motor Speedway.
The Loop Road
Located in the northern suburb of Bristol, the Loop Road is the main street that runs alongside the racetrack. If you stay in the northern section, close to the Loop Road, you’ll be in the middle of everything the track has to offer. From there, it’s a short walk to the main gates. Those staying at the more luxurious hotels can take the direct route to the airport; otherwise, it’s a longer walk to the nearby Train Stop.
The good thing is that these hotels are in close proximity to each other. Thus, it’s easy for guests to make the transition between the two. As you might expect, the direct route to the airport is pricier than the longer walk along the highway. But, if you want to avoid traffic and save time, the Loop Road is the better option.
I-55
While the Loop Road is the best option for those heading to the airport, if you’re coming from the southern suburb of the city, you’ll want to use the I-55 to get there. The best part about this highway is that it bypasses the city center and any traffic jams that might arise from there. As a result, it provides a smooth ride to the airport. There is also a direct connection to the airport from here.
Whether you’re coming from the south or the north, the best way to leave is via the I-55. Here’s the thing about that road, though: it is not easy to find a place to park. Thus, guests have to make a conscious effort to find a spot along the route or risk being blocked by parked cars.
The George Bristol Bridge
If you stay in the northern suburb of Bristol and need to leave the city, cross the George Bristol Bridge. From there, there are a number of options. You can take U.S. 1 south to the Marine Corps Air Station; however, if you want to get a closer look at the track, stay on the bridge and take a right turn onto Airport Road.
This airport route provides an excellent view of the entire racetrack. The drawback is that it takes you away from the center of the city. Still, if you want a cheap and cheerful meal, there are a number of burger joints along this road. Otherwise, there are a number of boutique hotels close to the airport. With so much choice, it’s hard to know where to go. If you don’t mind the walk, the best option is the Bristol Harbour View Hotel. From there, it’s a 10-minute stroll to the terminal. Alternatively, you can take a taxi.
The Hotels And Motels
If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay close to the airport, you have a wide variety of choices close to the track. Hotels as far as the eye can see line both sides of I-55. From luxury palaces to simple bed and breakfasts, there’s something here for everybody. As you might expect, the further north you go, the cheaper the hotel accommodation becomes.
The closest hotel to the airport is the Bristol Harbour View Hotel. From there, it’s a 10-minute stroll to the terminal. Alternatively, you can take a taxi ($15 flat rate) or the bus ($2 one-way, $4 round-trip) to reach your destination. From the airport, it’s a 50-minute drive to the center of Bristol.
The more affluent travelers might prefer to stay at the Four Points by Sheraton or the Renaissance Hotel and enjoy the convenience of those establishments. Both are within a 20-minute stroll from the airport and offer direct connections to the terminal. Those traveling on business might choose the Westin or the Hilton Garden Inn, each of which is a 30-minute drive from the airport. More inexpensive options can be found at the nearby Best Western or Comfort Inn. All of these hotels provide free shuttle service to and from the airport.
Airbnb
For those who prefer to stay at home, Airbnb offers a wide variety of accommodation options right next to the airport. There are more than 120 houses and apartment units within a 10-minute drive of the terminal. Naturally, you’ll pay a little more for the luxury of staying at an Airbnb; however, it’s well worth it. From there, it’s a 10-minute stroll to the terminal. Alternatively, you can take a taxi ($15 flat rate).
Bristol is a hub for tourism, with its world-class food, arts scene, and history. Thus, it should come as no surprise that so many people decide to visit or live in Bristol. If you’re going there, make sure to visit the following places: