When you think of Daytona Beach, Florida, your mind might wander to sun-soaked beaches and surf-worthy waves. But for racing enthusiasts, there’s another reason this coastal city revs their engines—Daytona International Speedway. I recently had the chance to visit this iconic motorsports venue, and it was a day full of adrenaline, history, and an unexpected appreciation for the sheer scale of NASCAR’s legacy.
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Arriving at the Speedway
The first thing that strikes you as you approach the Speedway is its size. Nestled off International Speedway Boulevard, the grandstand stretches into the horizon, a testament to the history and excitement this place holds. Parking was a breeze—ample space and efficient staff guiding fans into their spots made it stress-free (a rarity for major venues). Walking towards the entrance, you can already hear the hum of activity, even on a non-race day.
A Tour of Legends
I started my day with the All-Access Tour, which I highly recommend. Our guide, a passionate racing fan, brought the Speedway’s rich history to life. From the early days of stock car racing on the beach to the groundbreaking of the Speedway in 1959, every corner of this place seemed to tell a story. We got up-close views of the banked turns, which are much steeper than they look on TV, and even visited the start/finish line.
The tour also gives you a glimpse into the garages where NASCAR teams prep their cars for race day. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the precision, teamwork, and technology that go into each race. There’s something awe-inspiring about standing where legends like Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and Jeff Gordon have walked.
Motorsports Hall of Fame of America
Next up was a stop at the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, located right on-site. If you’re even a casual fan of racing, this is a must-see. The hall honors legends from all types of motorsports—not just NASCAR, but also IndyCar, Formula 1, motorcycles, and more. Seeing the cars up close, from sleek open-wheel racers to the thunderous stock cars, gives you a real sense of how these machines have evolved over time.
Inside the visitor centre, the winning car of the 2012 Daytona 500 is on display. Driven by Matt Kenseth, the Best Buy Ford – car number 17.
One of the coolest features was the interactive displays. I got to experience the feel of changing tires in a pit stop simulation, and yes, it’s as intense as it looks on TV! There’s also a chance to test your reaction time, just like a real driver. It’s one thing to watch a race, but it’s another to understand the skill and precision required to be behind the wheel at such high speeds.
Car number 9, is a Chevrolet 5 litre, V8 run by Action Express racing. It took part in the 2012 Rolex 24 and finished in ninth place, completing 739 laps.
Racing Under the Lights: The Daytona 500 Experience
If you time your visit right (I didn’t, but it’s on my bucket list), you’ll get to experience the thrill of a live event, especially the Daytona 500, the crown jewel of NASCAR. Held every February, the 500 is a spectacle unlike any other. But even outside of that, there are events like the Coke Zero Sugar 400, the Roar Before the Rolex 24, motocross, and sports car races that keep the Speedway buzzing throughout the year. The energy in the stands during a race is electric, and it’s not just about the cars—it’s about the fans. People tailgate in the parking lots, fire up barbecues, and proudly sport their favorite driver’s gear. It’s a community fueled by speed, competition, and camaraderie.
I was fortunate to attend the Roar Before the Rolex 24 on a separate visit to Daytona, which you can read about here.
The Daytona 500 Champions Walk of Fame
Outside the main building, on the side walk, you can walk in the footsteps of past Daytona 500 champions. Since 1996 each DAYTONA 500 champion has a block in which they leave a handprint and footprint in concrete, starting with with Dale Jarrett.
Something for Everyone
What I love most about Daytona International Speedway is that it offers something for everyone, even if you’re not a die-hard racing fan. The tours, the history, the exhibits—it all adds up to a fantastic experience. There’s a rich sense of tradition here, but the Speedway also feels fresh and modern, with updated facilities and plenty of amenities. It’s family-friendly too, with interactive activities for kids, and the sheer scale of the place is sure to impress even the youngest visitors.
Leaving with a Need for Speed
Whether you’re a motorsports enthusiast or just looking to soak in some Florida sun with a twist, make Daytona International Speedway a stop on your journey. Trust me, after visiting, you’ll never watch a race the same way again.
As I left the Speedway, I couldn’t shake the feeling of wanting more. The roar of the engines, the smell of rubber, the sight of a sleek car zooming down the track—it’s addictive. Daytona International Speedway isn’t just a racetrack; it’s a slice of American culture, where history, speed, and passion collide.
