Daytona International Speedway
With white sandy beaches and glorious waves, Daytona has always been a major travel destination. But Daytona is famous to race enthusiasts throughout the world as the home of the “Great American Race”, the Daytona 500. The race is the richest and most prestigious race in the US. The 480 acre complex is considered the Racing Center of the World, and kicks off the NASCAR Nextel Cup series each year. The Speedway offers one of the most diverse schedules of racing events in America. Events include NASCAR races, Rolex Sports Car Series, the American Motorcycle Association, the World Karting Association and the Porsche Reunion to name a few, and countless car shows and exhibits throughout the year. Tickets to racing events start at $50 and vary depending on the event, with multi-day passes available.
The official NASCAR attraction, The Daytona Experience, opened in 1996 and the Speedway quickly became a top tourist attraction in Florida. Visitors explore the history of motorsports, including motorcycling and stock car racing, as well as experience the thrill of NASCAR. The Daytona 500 Experience is the fully interactive facility that offers attractions such as the IMAX movie “NASCAR in 3D” as well as several others. There are three full motion simulators and the Ford 16-Second Pit Stop. Stop by the souvenir and gift, for your official NASCAR gifts. Admission is $24 adults and $16 for seniors, and children under 12 and includes a tour of the speedway.
“The biggest thrill any race fan could have would be to zip around the Daytona track at 160 mph – and you can do it here! Get behind the wheel and take eight turns around the famous track yourself. Enjoy the ultimate encounter with the Daytona Experience, and get 24 laps in three sessions. Each package includes training and instruction, as well as a graduation packet with your evaluation.
Drag racing more your style? Go 75 mph in three seconds at Nitro Alley at Speed Park Daytona. Nitro Alley features 21ft dragsters with Chevy 350 motors, to send you tearing down the strip. There are four lanes, so you can test your reaction time against your friends. Tickets for Nitro Alley are $25 each. Speed Park go-karts zip around one of three high speed tracks at 22mph. Go-Kart tickets are $7.25 each. There is also a video arcade, and Speed Park Daytona offers family discounts and special packages for parties and special events.