8 Tips For Visiting Charlotte Motor Speedway

For speed demons, engine fans, and those who love to feel the rumble of powerful machines, Charlotte Motor Speedway stands as a temple of racing. For over half a century, it has been the Greatest Place to See the Race, hosting events that pulse with the energy of high-speed competition. Here are 8 essential tips for visiting Charlotte Motor Speedway to ensure that your trip revs up excitement from start to finish.

1. Download the Charlotte Motor Speedway App

Modern times call for modern conveniences, and there’s no better way to stay in sync with the Speedway’s action-packed schedule than by downloading its official app.

The Charlotte Motor Speedway app provides real-time updates on races and events and offers many functions, including a detailed map of the Speedway, driver appearances, and ticket info. 

For a personalized planning experience, create an account within the app. This initial setup could unlock seamless navigation and insider information.

2. Book Your Speedway Tour

Behind every race day buzz is a rich history, and to fully appreciate Charlotte Motor Speedway’s legacy, you must take a tour. These close-to-hour-long guided expeditions offer an exclusive look at the track’s inner workings, from the garage areas to the fabled Pit Road and the hallowed Winner’s Circle. 

Be sure to book your tour in advance to secure a spot and make it a part of your Charlotte Motor Speedway experience.

What else can you do in Charlotte? Find out in this weekend getaway post. 

3. Savor the Speedway’s Fare

Races are as much about the food as the roar, and Charlotte Motor Speedway hits all the right notes with its culinary offerings. You’ll find an abundance of traditional race-day fare like BBQ, burgers, turkey legs, hot dogs, and a few exceptional eats, including Dale Earnhardt Junior’s Whiskey River. 

Skipping a meal is not an option when the Speedway’s concessions serve classic comfort food with a side of racing ambiance. And praise be for the Coca-Cola beverages. 

4. Immerse in Weekend Activities

Race day may be the focal point, but the action at Charlotte Motor Speedway starts well before the green flag drops. Tailgating, high-octane pre-race concerts, events at the Z Max Dragway, and the buzzing Fan Zone are an intrinsic part of the experience.

Mark your calendar for the race and the entire weekend’s lineup. If visiting during the holiday season, catch Speedway Christmas, turning the track into a glittering four-mile wonderland of more than four million LED holiday lights synchronized to festive music.

If you have extra time on your visit to Charlotte, Lake Norman is less than an hour away and has many great things to see and do. Learn more in this post. 

5. Pack Strategically

An often overlooked but beneficial aspect of attending any sporting event is the pack-and-carry policy. Charlotte Motor Speedway allows you to bring in a cooler—a game-changer for refreshments. Pack snacks, sandwiches, and water to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout the day. 

Remember that coolers will be checked, and there are specific size and content restrictions. Coolers must be 14x14x14 or less and soft-sided. Bags or backpacks cannot be bigger than 18x18x14.

6. Early Arrival is Key

Make haste to the Speedway gates to get the most out of your Charlotte Motor Speedway visit. Arriving early not only allows you to beat the traffic and reserve a convenient parking spot but also gives you time to indulge in the festivities, acclimate to the layout, and hit the restroom before the lines form. 

Don’t underestimate the value of this extra time to set the stage for your race day adventure leisurely.

7. Protect Your Hearing

The thrilling symphony of engines at full tilt is exhilarating, but it can also be deafening. To keep the experience a pleasure, pack ear protection. While disposable earplugs are available at the venue, investing in a sturdy pair of noise-canceling headphones provides a more comfortable and sustainable solution.

I like these safety earmuffs because they’re more comfortable, but you can purchase a cheaper pair on the property. 

Need a hotel for all the action? We thoroughly enjoyed staying at the Hyatt Centric Charlotte SouthPark.

8. Access the Action with a Pit Pass

Do you want to feel the pulse of the race from the heart of the action? A Pit Pass is your golden ticket to get up close and personal with the drivers, their teams, and the adrenaline-fueled pre-race festivities. 

This premium access offers a perspective on the event that few other fans will enjoy. It’s a badge of honor for any motorsports enthusiast.

From unique fan experiences to great food and activities for the whole family, see why Charlotte Motor Speedway is “The Greatest Place To See The Race”!

I was comped NASCAR All-Star Race tickets to write this article. All opinions are 100% unbiased and my own.