
Bristol Motor Speedway
The 'Last Great Colosseum' of motorsports, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts thrilling NASCAR races, drag racing, and unique events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak NASCAR excitement

Bristol Motor Speedway
Best Time
Peak NASCAR excitement

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The 'Last Great Colosseum' of motorsports, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts thrilling NASCAR races, drag racing, and unique events.
"First time at Bristol and it was absolutely amazing! The best tram service and workers around."

🎯 Book Race Tickets Early
Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price.
👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes
The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

NASCAR Cup Series Races
The Oval Track
Experience the thunderous roar of NASCAR's premier series on this iconic, high-banked short track. Pure adrenaline!

Speedway In Lights
The Speedway Grounds
A magical drive-thru Christmas light display that transforms the track into a winter wonderland.

Bristol Dragway
Adjacent to the Oval Track
Feel the raw power of NHRA drag racing with incredible acceleration and speed.

MLB at Bristol
The Baseball Field
Witness professional baseball games hosted on a temporary field within the speedway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the 'Last Great Colosseum'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Race Tickets Early
Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price.
👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes
The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands.
🚗 Parking & Tram Service
Easy parking is available, with tram service to get you to the gates. Consider campgrounds for a full race weekend experience.
💡 Night Race Thrills
Many visitors rave about the night races for added excitement and action.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Race Tickets Early
Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price.
👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes
The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands.
🚗 Parking & Tram Service
Easy parking is available, with tram service to get you to the gates. Consider campgrounds for a full race weekend experience.
💡 Night Race Thrills
Many visitors rave about the night races for added excitement and action.
💰 Budget for Food & Drink
Concessions can be pricey. Some visitors suggest bringing your own food and drinks if allowed.
📸 Capture the Action
Get ready for incredible photo ops, especially from the high banks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the thrilling atmosphere and intense racing action at Bristol Motor Speedway, often calling it an amazing experience. The venue's scale and the excitement of night races are frequently highlighted. However, some find concession prices high and seating steepness challenging, with occasional issues regarding food availability in premium areas.
"Okay, so my review isn't so negative about Bristol, that was awesome for the most part. But I had tickets to the Busch Banks and Brews area, and to be honest it wasn't as great as what I was expecting. Chips and beer, mixed drinks were limited, bathrooms were a long ways away and food services were just as far of a walk. We had level one, or white access; not sure how much the next level would have cost. So, not that great for the extra money. Now, the seats, were great! The view awesome! And the race, amazing! First time and was really impressed with the race!"
Ray Montgomery
"First time at Bristol and it was absolutely amazing! The only bad thing was 7 dollars for a hot dog. Not going to have that take away from the overall experience. The best tram service and workers around. Everyone was super helpful. Definitely coming back! Night race at Bristol was amazing! So much more action!"
Jonathon Milson
"Stopped by for the Christmas Lights display. Many communities and cities throughout Tennessee take part. The time spent is worth it. I learned something new while I was there."
Willie Haynesworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bristol Motor Speedway is located in Bristol, Tennessee. Major airports nearby include Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI), about a 30-minute drive away. Driving is common, with clear signage from major highways like I-81. Many visitors opt for RVs and camping for race weekends.
Public transportation directly to the speedway is limited. Most attendees drive or use shuttle services provided by local businesses or campgrounds during major events.
Traffic can be heavy on race days. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid the worst congestion. Consider using GPS apps that provide real-time traffic updates.
The speedway offers various parking options, including general parking lots and premium reserved spots. Campgrounds across the street also provide parking and a lively atmosphere.
Yes, daily tours are often available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the 'Last Great Colosseum.' Check the official website for tour schedules and booking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for NASCAR races and other events can be purchased directly from the official Bristol Motor Speedway website, authorized ticket retailers, or resale marketplaces. Booking early is advised.
Ticket prices vary widely based on the event, seating location, and how far in advance you purchase. Expect prices to range from around $50 for basic seats to several hundred dollars for premium packages.
Absolutely! Bristol offers a wide range of seating options, from general admission to luxury suites. Consider seat view photos online to find the best vantage point for the action.
Policies can vary by event. For NASCAR races, some outside food and non-alcoholic beverages in clear bags are often permitted, but it's best to check the specific event guidelines. Some premium areas have restrictions.
Operating hours vary significantly depending on whether there's an event. For tours, check the official website. Race weekends typically have gates opening several hours before the main event.
🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience
Bristol Motor Speedway is famous for its NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series races, but also hosts NHRA drag racing, dirt racing events, concerts, and the popular 'Speedway In Lights' holiday display.
It's electric! Known as 'The Last Great Colosseum,' the atmosphere is intense with roaring engines, passionate fans, and the thrill of short-track racing. Night races are particularly spectacular.
Yes, many events include fan zones with activities for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination. The 'Speedway In Lights' is a great family outing.
The grandstands are known for being very steep, offering excellent sightlines but requiring careful navigation. Some visitors find them challenging, especially for the elderly.
Wi-Fi availability can be spotty, especially during large events. It's advisable to download any necessary information or apps beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A variety of concession stands offer typical trackside fare like hot dogs, burgers, and snacks. Premium seating areas may have more diverse or upscale options.
Concessions can be pricey, with items like hot dogs costing around $7. Some visitors recommend bringing your own food and drinks if permitted by event rules.
Check the specific event's policy, as rules can vary. For NASCAR races, small coolers with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are often allowed, but always verify beforehand.
Options can be limited, but you might find some basic choices like salads or fries. It's best to inquire at concession stands or check event guides for specific offerings.
These areas offer a more exclusive experience with dedicated food and drink options. However, some visitors found them to be not as great as expected for the extra cost, with limited food variety and distant restrooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The high banks offer dramatic perspectives of the track and cars. Consider elevated seating for wider shots. The pit area (if accessible) and fan zones also provide great photo opportunities.
Camera policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras with detachable lenses may be restricted for NASCAR races. Check the official website for specific rules regarding camera equipment.
Action shots of cars on the track, wide-angle views of the packed grandstands, and close-ups of the intense racing action are popular. Capturing the sheer scale of the venue is also a must.
Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited at Bristol Motor Speedway due to safety and security regulations, especially during events.
For races, the 'golden hour' before sunset or during twilight for night races offers dramatic lighting. Daytime tours provide good natural light for capturing the venue's architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Last Great Colosseum': A Unique Track
Beyond its iconic oval, Bristol also features the Bristol Dragway, a premier NHRA drag racing facility. This dual-purpose venue allows for a variety of motorsports experiences, from the thunder of stock cars to the explosive acceleration of dragsters. The speedway has also hosted unique events like Major League Baseball games, showcasing its versatility.
Visiting Bristol Motor Speedway is more than just watching a race; it's an immersive experience. The sheer scale of the venue, capable of holding over 160,000 spectators, creates an unparalleled atmosphere. Whether you're there for a NASCAR weekend, a drag race, or the festive 'Speedway In Lights,' the energy is palpable.
Navigating Race Day Logistics
When it comes to food and beverages, be prepared for typical trackside pricing, which can be on the higher side. While some events allow attendees to bring in their own food and non-alcoholic drinks (often in clear bags), it's crucial to check the specific event's policy beforehand. Some premium seating areas, like the 'Busch Banks and Brews,' offer dedicated amenities, but reviews suggest they might not always justify the extra cost.
The seating itself is a notable feature. The grandstands are exceptionally steep, providing excellent sightlines but requiring careful navigation. Comfortable footwear is a must. For those concerned about accessibility, it's wise to inquire about specific seating arrangements or assistance options when purchasing tickets.
Beyond the Races: Year-Round Attractions
For motorsports enthusiasts, the Bristol Dragway offers a different kind of thrill with NHRA events, showcasing incredible acceleration and speed. The speedway has also proven its versatility by hosting unique events like Major League Baseball games, demonstrating its capacity to adapt for various sporting spectacles.
Daily tours of the speedway are often available, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and operations of 'The Last Great Colosseum.' These tours are a great way to experience the venue's grandeur even when there isn't a major event happening.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit