Turns 3 & 4 from atop Section 407
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Chicagoland Speedway

4.6
·1k reviews·Joliet, United States

A legendary motorsports venue hosting thrilling NASCAR races, SuperMotocross, and vibrant fan experiences with camping and tailgating.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Weekends

Experience the full racing spectacle.

CrowdHigh
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Turns 3 & 4 from atop Section 407

Chicagoland Speedway

Best Time

Event Weekends

Experience the full racing spectacle.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary motorsports venue hosting thrilling NASCAR races, SuperMotocross, and vibrant fan experiences with camping and tailgating.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Had a fantastic time anyway. We just rolled with the punches. Great day!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Ahead for Events

Major races like NASCAR sell out. Check official sites for tickets and presales.

🚗 Plan Your Parking

If driving, research parking options and routes to avoid delays. Tailgating spots are popular!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

NASCAR Cup Series Race

NASCAR Cup Series Race

Main Oval Track

Feel the thunder of engines and the roar of the crowd at a premier NASCAR event. Pure adrenaline!

SuperMotocross Championship

SuperMotocross Championship

Oval Track / Dirt Course

Witness elite motocross and supercross athletes battle it out on a custom-built track. Thrilling jumps and speed!

Tailgating & Camping

Tailgating & Camping

Designated Areas

Immerse yourself in the race weekend culture with vibrant tailgating and camping setups. A true fan experience!

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Planning Your Visit

Secure Your Tickets Early

Tickets for major events like NASCAR races and SuperMotocross can sell out fast. Keep an eye on the official website and presale opportunities, but be aware that pricing can be dynamic. InstagramReddit

Embrace the Full Experience

Chicagoland Speedway is more than just a race; it's an event. Consider tailgating or camping to soak in the atmosphere, and be prepared for a lively crowd and diverse food options. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Event Weekends
Why
Experience the full racing spectacle.
Crowd
High
When
Off-Season (for tours)
Why
Explore the track's history.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Your wait? It’s over‼️ Tickets are on sale now at ChicagolandSpeedway.com!
chicagolndspdwy
1.5K likes • 16.2K views

🎟️ Book Ahead for Events

Major races like NASCAR sell out. Check official sites for tickets and presales. InstagramReddit

🚗 Plan Your Parking

If driving, research parking options and routes to avoid delays. Tailgating spots are popular! Reddit

@Boxerfest 2025 brought the heat! Now buckle up for our next Subie enthusiast event, @subiefest Midwest, on Saturday, 9/27 at Chicagoland Speedway. Head to our link in bio to grab your tickets now!
subaru_usa
1.8K likes • 47.5K views
Ryan Briscoe and Alex Barron crash at Chicagoland Speedway. Guess: Year❓️ . ⬆️Follow for more⬆️ #indycarseries #indycarcrash #indycar #indy500 #indy500🏁 #racing #racingcrash #practice #firestone #crashes #crash #hugecrash #hitthewall #barries #motorsport #motorsportcrash #americamotors #chaos #car #indy500orbust #racingweekend #racingteam #reels #indychevy #hondaracing #motorspors #motorsportpho...
racing.or.crashes
50.4K likes • 1M views

🍔 Midway Food is Great

While suites have views, the midway offers delicious and varied food options. Reddit

🏕️ Tailgating is Key

Embrace the NASCAR tradition! Tailgating is a huge part of the fan experience. InstagramReddit

SuperMotocross Mic’d 🎙️ Up SMX Supercross at Chicagoland Speedway #haidendeegan #dangerboy #supermotocross #promotocross #motocross #supercross #motobakin #mxgp #enduro #dirtbikes
motobakin
5.9K likes • 141.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Ahead for Events

Major races like NASCAR sell out. Check official sites for tickets and presales. InstagramReddit

🚗 Plan Your Parking

If driving, research parking options and routes to avoid delays. Tailgating spots are popular! Reddit

🍔 Midway Food is Great

While suites have views, the midway offers delicious and varied food options. Reddit

🏕️ Tailgating is Key

Embrace the NASCAR tradition! Tailgating is a huge part of the fan experience. InstagramReddit

🥶 Beer Might Be Warm

Some visitors note beer isn't always cold. Be prepared to seek out colder options. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally have a fantastic time at Chicagoland Speedway, praising the thrilling racing action and vibrant atmosphere, especially during NASCAR events. While some note that food and beverages can be pricey and occasionally not up to par, the overall experience is highly rated, with many eager to return. InstagramReddit

"Went for drag races. Saturday, may 17th, 2025

Up in the suites' great view. The room was clean and set up well.

The food wasn't very good, so we went down to the midway and grabbed some good eats.

The beer was not cold at all.
Went down and paid $9 bucks for a cold beer.

Had a fantastic time anyway. We just rolled with the punches.

Great day 😀"

Buford T

"Midwest Subiefest was a success. Can't wait to visit again."

Travis Antone

"I had a great time in 2019 with my son and would have been a regular attendee. I was excited to see the race was back on in 2026 and signed up for the pre sale event this year. Willing to pay up to 200 per seat and I liked where I sat last time in section 110 row 43. So after being contacted for the presale this week found that in order to get a seat in the same location I would have to buy a seat in the very lower sections below row 40 unless I bought a 2 day event ticket which I refuse to buy because I only wanted to see the Sunday cup race. I have been a major fan of Nascar back to the 80's, and have been a hardcore fan since 1990. For this reason I will see if any seats go up for sale later on the public or not even attend. Maybe its time to start a new hobby. I recently retired and planned on attending 3 to 4 races live a year (maybe not anymore I can use my money elsewhere) Don't fall for any presale by giving money away and not being treated any better than waiting for public sales tickets. In the end it's all about making $$$$$$$"

Theodore Broberg

What People Like

Exciting race atmosphere
Great tailgating culture
Thrilling motorsports action

What People Dislike

Expensive concessions
Inconsistent drink quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chicagoland Speedway is located in Joliet, Illinois. It's accessible by car via major highways like I-80 and I-55. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended. Consider ride-sharing services for events. Reddit

From Chicago, take I-55 South to exit 253 for US-30 E towards Joliet. From other directions, I-80 West is a common route. Always check traffic conditions before heading out, especially on race days. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is available for most events. Different lots cater to general parking, RVs, and tailgating. Some spots fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised. Reddit

Yes, RV and tent camping are popular options for NASCAR weekends, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the race atmosphere. Book your camping spots in advance as they are limited. Reddit

Traffic can be heavy approaching the speedway on event days. Leaving the venue after a major race can also involve significant delays. Many fans choose to tailgate until traffic subsides. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available through the official Chicagoland Speedway website, Ticketmaster, and other authorized resellers. Keep an eye out for presale opportunities for popular events. Instagram

Ticket sales for NASCAR races usually begin months in advance. Follow the speedway's social media and sign up for email alerts to be notified of presales and general on-sale dates. Instagram

Yes, Chicagoland Speedway offers a variety of seating options, from general admission to premium suites and club seats. Prices vary significantly based on location and view. Reddit

Pit passes and infield access are often available as add-ons to race tickets. These provide a closer look at the action and the teams, but they come at an additional cost. Instagram

Re-entry policies can vary by event. It's best to check the specific event's rules regarding leaving and returning to the venue. Generally, for major races, re-entry might be restricted. Reddit

🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience

Chicagoland Speedway has hosted a variety of motorsports, including NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Truck Series races, IndyCar, and SuperMotocross. It has also been used for special events like car shows and enthusiast gatherings. Instagram+2

The atmosphere is electric, especially during NASCAR weekends. Expect a large, enthusiastic crowd, live entertainment, and a strong sense of community among fans. InstagramReddit

Yes, many events are family-friendly, with dedicated kids' zones, entertainment, and opportunities to experience the excitement of motorsports together. Reddit

Iconic photo opportunities include the main grandstands overlooking the track, the pit lane (if accessible), and the winner's circle. Capture the scale of the oval and the intensity of the racing. Instagram

Essentials include sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, earplugs (especially for races), and binoculars. Check the venue's bag policy before you go. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

A variety of concessions are available, offering typical stadium fare like hot dogs, burgers, and pizza. For more diverse options, the midway often has food trucks and specialty vendors. Reddit

Food and beverages at the speedway can be pricey, which is common for large venues. Many visitors opt to bring their own snacks or enjoy the more affordable options on the midway. Reddit

Check the specific event's policy on outside food and beverages. Some events allow sealed water bottles and small snacks, while others have stricter rules. Reddit

Concession stands typically offer some vegetarian options like fries or salads. Vegan choices might be limited, but food trucks on the midway can sometimes provide more variety. Reddit

Alcoholic beverages are usually available for purchase at designated stands. Be prepared for potentially warm beer, as noted by some attendees. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting for track shots. During races, capture the speed and action, but be mindful of restrictions on professional equipment. Instagram

Professional camera equipment, including DSLRs with large lenses, may be restricted. Always check the event's specific photography policy beforehand. Instagram

The sweeping turns of the oval, the pit lane during practice, and the grandstands filled with fans offer dynamic photographic opportunities. The track's sheer scale is impressive. Instagram

Consider capturing the atmosphere of the tailgating areas, the pre-race ceremonies, and the sheer intensity of the drivers. The abandoned state of parts of the track has also become a subject for photographers. Instagram

For capturing fast-moving cars, use a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000s or faster) and a wide aperture to freeze the action. Consider panning with the car for a sense of motion. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chicagoland Speedway offers a thrilling experience for families. Many events are designed to be family-friendly, with dedicated entertainment zones and activities for younger attendees. Reddit The sheer excitement of the races, the roar of the engines, and the vibrant atmosphere are captivating for all ages. Instagram Consider purchasing seats in sections known for good sightlines and easier access to amenities. Reddit

To make the day smoother, pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and ear protection for children. Reddit While food can be expensive, exploring the midway offers more variety. Reddit Many families enjoy the tailgating culture as a way to bond and create lasting memories before the main event. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Attending events at Chicagoland Speedway can be managed on a budget by planning ahead. Look for general admission tickets or consider purchasing tickets during presale events to potentially secure better prices. InstagramReddit While premium seating offers great views, general admission can still provide an exciting experience. Reddit

Pack your own snacks and drinks (check venue policy first!) to save on concession costs, which can add up quickly. Reddit The tailgating experience itself is often a cost-effective way to enjoy the atmosphere and share food with friends. Reddit Consider carpooling or researching the most economical transportation options to the speedway. Reddit

🏎️ Motorsports Enthusiasts

For dedicated motorsports fans, Chicagoland Speedway offers a chance to witness top-tier racing across various disciplines. Whether it's the thunderous NASCAR Cup Series, the high-flying SuperMotocross, or historical IndyCar races, the venue has a rich racing pedigree. Instagram+2 Consider investing in pit passes or infield access for a closer look at the teams and machinery. Instagram

Immerse yourself in the full race weekend by camping or tailgating, which allows for a deeper connection with the sport and fellow fans. Reddit Keep an eye on the speedway's schedule for special events, driving experiences, or track tours that offer unique insights into the world of motorsports. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Return of Racing: Chicagoland Speedway's Future

Chicagoland Speedway, a prominent venue in NASCAR's history, has faced periods of uncertainty regarding its future on the racing calendar. After its last NASCAR Cup Series race in 2019, the track was idled, leading to concerns about its operational status. Instagram+1 This period of inactivity sparked discussions among fans and industry insiders about potential comebacks and the track's significance to the region's motorsports scene. Instagram

Recent developments suggest a potential revival. NASCAR has expressed interest in bringing racing back to Chicagoland Speedway, with discussions about its return to the schedule. Instagram This has generated excitement among fans who miss the high-speed action. However, the exact timeline and format of any potential return are still being finalized, leaving many eager for official announcements. Reddit

Beyond NASCAR, the speedway has also hosted other motorsports, including SuperMotocross, showcasing its versatility. Instagram+1 The possibility of reopening the adjacent dragstrip at Route 66 Raceway has also been raised, suggesting a broader revitalization of motorsports facilities in the Joliet area. Instagram The future of Chicagoland Speedway hinges on these ongoing discussions and investments, with the hope of restoring its status as a premier racing destination. Instagram

Experiencing the Thrill: Race Day at Chicagoland

Attending a race at Chicagoland Speedway is an immersive experience that goes beyond just watching cars on a track. For many, the tradition of tailgating is an integral part of the event, with fans arriving early to set up elaborate camps, share food and drinks, and soak in the pre-race atmosphere. Reddit This communal spirit is a hallmark of the NASCAR experience, fostering a sense of belonging among attendees. Reddit

The on-track action itself is a sensory overload. The roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sheer speed of the cars create an exhilarating environment. Instagram Whether you're in the grandstands or have a coveted pit pass, the intensity of the competition is palpable. Instagram For those seeking an even deeper connection, RV and tent camping options allow fans to live and breathe the race weekend, often for multiple days. Reddit

While the racing is the main draw, Chicagoland Speedway also offers live music, food concessions, and family-friendly activities, ensuring there's something for everyone. Instagram However, it's worth noting that some aspects, like food prices and beverage temperature, have drawn minor criticisms, but most visitors agree that the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and memorable. Reddit

Beyond the Oval: Chicagoland Speedway's Versatility

While Chicagoland Speedway is most famously associated with NASCAR, its expansive grounds and oval track have proven versatile enough to host a variety of other motorsports. The SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX), a hybrid event combining elements of supercross and motocross, has found a home here, drawing a different but equally enthusiastic crowd. Instagram+1 This demonstrates the track's adaptability to accommodate diverse racing disciplines and fan bases. Instagram

Historically, the speedway also played a significant role in IndyCar racing, hosting thrilling close finishes and memorable championships. Instagram The mention of NHRA drag racing also surfaces, indicating past or potential future events that leverage the facility's infrastructure. Instagram This broad appeal highlights Chicagoland Speedway's potential as a multi-purpose motorsports venue, capable of catering to a wide spectrum of racing enthusiasts. Instagram

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