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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the full racing spectacle.

Chicagoland Speedway
Best Time
Experience the full racing spectacle.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary motorsports venue hosting thrilling NASCAR races, SuperMotocross, and vibrant fan experiences with camping and tailgating.
"Had a fantastic time anyway. We just rolled with the punches. Great day!"

🎟️ 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Tailgating & Camping
Designated Areas
Immerse yourself in the race weekend culture with vibrant tailgating and camping setups. A true fan experience!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Tickets Early
Embrace the Full Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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!
🍔 Midway Food is Great
While suites have views, the midway offers delicious and varied food options.
🏕️ Tailgating is Key
Embrace the NASCAR tradition! Tailgating is a huge part of the fan experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ 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!
🍔 Midway Food is Great
While suites have views, the midway offers delicious and varied food options.
🏕️ Tailgating is Key
Embrace the NASCAR tradition! Tailgating is a huge part of the fan experience.
🥶 Beer Might Be Warm
Some visitors note beer isn't always cold. Be prepared to seek out colder options.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏎️ 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.
The atmosphere is electric, especially during NASCAR weekends. Expect a large, enthusiastic crowd, live entertainment, and a strong sense of community among fans.
Yes, many events are family-friendly, with dedicated kids' zones, entertainment, and opportunities to experience the excitement of motorsports together.
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.
Essentials include sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, earplugs (especially for races), and binoculars. Check the venue's bag policy before you go.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Alcoholic beverages are usually available for purchase at designated stands. Be prepared for potentially warm beer, as noted by some attendees.
📸 📸 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.
Professional camera equipment, including DSLRs with large lenses, may be restricted. Always check the event's specific photography policy beforehand.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the day smoother, pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and ear protection for children. While food can be expensive, exploring the midway offers more variety. Many families enjoy the tailgating culture as a way to bond and create lasting memories before the main event.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks (check venue policy first!) to save on concession costs, which can add up quickly. The tailgating experience itself is often a cost-effective way to enjoy the atmosphere and share food with friends. Consider carpooling or researching the most economical transportation options to the speedway.
🏎️ Motorsports Enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in the full race weekend by camping or tailgating, which allows for a deeper connection with the sport and fellow fans. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Return of Racing: Chicagoland Speedway's Future
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. 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.
Beyond NASCAR, the speedway has also hosted other motorsports, including SuperMotocross, showcasing its versatility. 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. The future of Chicagoland Speedway hinges on these ongoing discussions and investments, with the hope of restoring its status as a premier racing destination.
Experiencing the Thrill: Race Day at Chicagoland
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. Whether you're in the grandstands or have a coveted pit pass, the intensity of the competition is palpable. 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.
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. 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.
Beyond the Oval: Chicagoland Speedway's Versatility
Historically, the speedway also played a significant role in IndyCar racing, hosting thrilling close finishes and memorable championships. The mention of NHRA drag racing also surfaces, indicating past or potential future events that leverage the facility's infrastructure. This broad appeal highlights Chicagoland Speedway's potential as a multi-purpose motorsports venue, capable of catering to a wide spectrum of racing enthusiasts.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit