BMW Performance Center
Experience the thrill of BMW performance on the track and off-road with expert-led driving courses and exhilarating hot laps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more track time
BMW Performance Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more track time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of BMW performance on the track and off-road with expert-led driving courses and exhilarating hot laps.
"An unforgettable experience behind the wheel, with expert instructors and incredible BMW performance."
🚗 Book in Advance!
Popular courses fill up fast. Secure your spot for a thrilling BMW driving experience by booking online ahead of time.
🏍️ Gear Up for Off-Road
For the Rider Academy, just bring your gear! BMW provides the bikes and expert instruction for an unforgettable off-road adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
M Car Hot Lap
Track
Experience the raw power and precision of a BMW M car with an exhilarating hot lap guided by a professional instructor.
Off-Road Rider Academy
Off-road course
Master challenging terrain and advanced techniques on a variety of BMW motorcycles in a safe, controlled environment.
Teen Driving School
Track and training areas
Equip new drivers with essential skills and confidence through hands-on instruction in a safe, performance-focused setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Driving Experience Early
Understand Course Offerings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book in Advance!
Popular courses fill up fast. Secure your spot for a thrilling BMW driving experience by booking online ahead of time.
🏍️ Gear Up for Off-Road
For the Rider Academy, just bring your gear! BMW provides the bikes and expert instruction for an unforgettable off-road adventure.
👨🏫 Learn from the Best
Instructors are highly experienced and patient, tailoring lessons to all skill levels for maximum learning and fun.
🎁 Consider a Gift Card
Give the gift of adrenaline! BMW Performance Center gift cards are perfect for car enthusiasts and aspiring drivers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book in Advance!
Popular courses fill up fast. Secure your spot for a thrilling BMW driving experience by booking online ahead of time.
🏍️ Gear Up for Off-Road
For the Rider Academy, just bring your gear! BMW provides the bikes and expert instruction for an unforgettable off-road adventure.
👨🏫 Learn from the Best
Instructors are highly experienced and patient, tailoring lessons to all skill levels for maximum learning and fun.
🎁 Consider a Gift Card
Give the gift of adrenaline! BMW Performance Center gift cards are perfect for car enthusiasts and aspiring drivers.
📍 Two Locations!
Choose between the East Coast (South Carolina) and West Coast (Thermal, CA) for your ultimate BMW driving adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the BMW Performance Center for its exceptional driving experiences and top-tier instruction. The M Driving Schools and Off-Road Rider Academy receive high marks for their comprehensive training and thrilling execution. While the cost can be a factor, most agree the value and unforgettable memories make it a worthwhile investment for any automotive enthusiast.
"I had an awesome experience and time with the Motorcycle Offroad training program at the BMW Rider Academy in Greenville, South Carolina from October 22nd through October 25th of 2025. The overall program was superb, from the training staff, the facilities, the motorcycles, training program, and the food service! All of it was impeccable! Their program was superbly designed for all types of riders and provided the best training I have experienced, and the value received was excellent. I really appreciated that all I had to do was to get to Greenville with my riding gear and their training program took care of everything else, including which model of BMW motorcycle that I wanted to learn on. The BMW instructors for my training were Katie B. and Chris J., and both were highly experienced with offroad knowledge and capabilities and were well versed in working with their students with all levels of experience and had extreme patience with each one of us. I would like to have them as my instructors again. They ensured that we were exposed and understood the different types of off-road riding techniques, along with practice sessions for actual experience. This exceeded all my requirements and expectations! I am a BMWMOA member was took this course through the MOA and I am very pleased with the relationship that BMWMOA and BMW has, their offering with this program with the BMW Performance Center. I look forward to participating in future training sessions here. Thanks very much for providing such an excellent training session, along with the support staff and facilities that made this a success for me."
Ken Clarke
"Great facility with excellent instructors and class offerings. The Teen Driving and M Driving schools are amazing! I would recommend these to anyone of any skill level. The training will be tailored to your experience and everyone will walk away with improved skills and an amazing experience."
Michael Tavel
"Did the 1 day M-school and learned a lot from the knowledgeable instructors. Drove the M2, M4c, M5c. Lunch was great too!
If you get your BMW delivered here, you’ll get to experience driving a similar model on the track. All other programs can be bought and booked online. There are some discounts if you buy the class during the Ultimate Driving Experience or through a BMW employee"
Freddy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The BMW Performance Center has two primary locations: one in Greer, South Carolina (East Coast) and another in Thermal, California (West Coast). Both offer distinct driving experiences. 
The Thermal location is near Palm Springs, California. Visitors typically fly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) or a larger airport like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then rent a car or arrange transportation to the facility.
The South Carolina facility is near Greenville and Spartanburg. The closest major airport is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP). Rental cars are readily available from the airport.
While you can drive your own BMW to the facility, the driving experiences themselves utilize BMW's fleet of performance vehicles. The New Owner's Track Drive allows you to experience a similar model to your new purchase on the track.
Yes, both locations have numerous hotel and lodging options nearby. It's recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially if visiting during peak seasons or for multi-day courses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Costs vary significantly depending on the program. Experiences range from a few hundred dollars for a single session to several thousand for multi-day advanced courses. Check the official BMW Performance Center website for current pricing and package details.
Absolutely. All driving experiences, hot laps, and specialized courses require advance booking. Popular programs sell out, so booking well ahead of your desired date is crucial.
This complimentary experience is offered to new BMW owners. It allows you to drive a BMW model similar to your new purchase on the track, experiencing its performance capabilities under expert guidance.
Discounts may be available through BMW employee programs or during special events like the Ultimate Driving Experience. It's worth checking the official website or inquiring directly about any potential promotions.
Operating hours can vary based on the specific programs and scheduled events. It's best to check the official BMW Performance Center website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for your chosen experience.
🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience
A wide range of courses are available, including Teen Driving School, M Driving Schools (1-day, 2-day), Advanced Driving Courses, Off-Road Rider Academy, and the New Owner's Track Drive.
You'll have the opportunity to drive various BMW models, including M2, M3, M4, M5, M8, X5, i5 M60, and Z4, depending on the specific course you choose.
Yes, the center offers programs like the Teen Driving School and introductory M Driving Schools that are perfect for beginners. Instructors tailor the experience to your skill level.
A hot lap involves riding shotgun with a professional driver in a high-performance BMW M car as they navigate the track at speed, showcasing the vehicle's capabilities and the driver's skill.
Generally, you can bring personal cameras and phones for photos and videos, especially during designated times or from spectator areas. However, check specific course rules, as usage might be restricted during active driving sessions for safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, most full-day driving courses and programs include lunch. The quality of the meals has been frequently praised by visitors.
The dining experience is often described as high-quality, with some reviews comparing it to restaurant-level meals. Expect well-prepared dishes suitable for a full day of activity.
While specific public dining facilities might be limited, participants in full-day programs are typically provided with meals. It's advisable to check the details of your specific booking regarding meal inclusions.
Basic amenities like coffee are often available, especially during check-in. For other snacks or drinks, it's a good idea to bring your own or check if there are any onsite vending options.
Both the South Carolina and Thermal locations are situated in areas with a variety of dining options. You can find numerous restaurants in the nearby cities of Greenville/Spartanburg or Palm Springs.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, visitors are generally encouraged to capture their experience. You can use your phone or camera, especially during downtime or from designated viewing areas.
While not always guaranteed for every session, professional photography services or opportunities might be available for certain premium packages or events. It's best to inquire directly when booking.
The track itself, the fleet of BMW M cars, and the modern facility architecture offer great photo opportunities. Capture the dynamic action on the track and the sleek design of the vehicles.
Typically, personal device usage is restricted during active driving for safety and focus. However, instructors might allow brief photo opportunities before or after your session.
You can find many photos on Instagram using hashtags like #BMWPerformanceCenter, #BMWPDS, and #BMWM. The official BMW Performance Center website also features a gallery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While younger children might not participate in the driving courses, the facility itself can be an exciting place for them to witness high-performance cars and the thrill of the track. For families visiting the South Carolina location, the proximity to attractions in Greenville and Spartanburg can make for a well-rounded family trip. Consider booking a hot lap for older teens or adults in the family for an extra thrill.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Performance Junkies
Don't miss the hot lap for a pure adrenaline rush, or consider the New Owner's Track Drive if you've recently acquired a BMW to fully appreciate its capabilities. For a different kind of thrill, the Off-Road Rider Academy offers a challenging and rewarding experience on two wheels.
🏍️ Motorcycle Riders
You'll get to ride a range of BMW adventure motorcycles, learning everything from slow-speed finesse to tackling challenging obstacles. The program is comprehensive, providing an immersive experience that builds confidence and capability on any trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your BMW Driving Experience
For younger drivers or those new to performance driving, the Teen Driving School provides a crucial foundation in safe driving techniques, hazard perception, and vehicle control in a controlled environment. This program is highly recommended for building confidence and responsible driving habits.
Beyond the tarmac, the Off-Road Rider Academy offers a unique challenge for motorcycle enthusiasts. Participants learn to master various off-road terrains and techniques on BMW's adventure bike fleet, from navigating steep inclines to handling loose surfaces. This program is lauded for its comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction.
The Thrill of the Hot Lap
+1During a hot lap, you'll experience incredible G-forces as the car accelerates, brakes, and corners with precision. Instructors often provide commentary, explaining the techniques they're using and highlighting the car's performance characteristics. It’s an unforgettable sensory experience that leaves participants buzzing with excitement.
While not a hands-on driving experience, the hot lap is an accessible way for anyone to feel the raw power and dynamic handling of a BMW M car. It's often included in certain packages or can be booked as an add-on, making it a popular choice for those seeking a concentrated dose of automotive excitement.
New Owner's Track Drive: A Special Welcome
The experience typically involves driving several laps, focusing on proper track etiquette, braking points, and cornering techniques. Instructors provide personalized feedback, helping owners build confidence and appreciate the true capabilities of their BMW. It’s more than just a drive; it’s an education in performance driving.
Beyond the track, some New Owner's Track Drives may also include off-road demonstrations or other specialized activities, offering a well-rounded introduction to BMW's diverse range of vehicles and their performance attributes. This program is highly recommended for all new BMW owners as a way to truly connect with their vehicle.
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