Great Lakes Dragaway
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Great Lakes Dragaway

4.7
Β·2k reviewsΒ·Union Grove, United States

Iconic quarter-mile drag strip since 1955, hosting thrilling races, car shows, and a vibrant motorsports community.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event days

Experience the full thrill

CrowdHigh
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Great Lakes Dragaway

Great Lakes Dragaway

Best Time

Event days

Experience the full thrill

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic quarter-mile drag strip since 1955, hosting thrilling races, car shows, and a vibrant motorsports community.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Had a blast! It was a lot of fun and all was very well organized."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Ear Protection

The sound of drag racing is deafening! Earplugs or earmuffs are a must for comfort.

🎟️ Spectator Tickets

Tickets can be pricey, but offer a full day of entertainment. Plan your visit around major events for the best experience.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 Β· 1,851 reviews

Type

Event Venue

β™Ώ Wheelchair accessibleπŸ…ΏοΈ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quarter-Mile Racing Action

Quarter-Mile Racing Action

Witness incredible speeds and powerful machines battle it out on the iconic quarter-mile strip. Feel the thunder!

Car Shows & Special Events

Car Shows & Special Events

From monthly shows to major events like Sick Summer, experience a vibrant car culture and diverse automotive displays.

RC Drag Racing Area

RC Drag Racing Area

Even the remote-controlled cars get in on the action with a dedicated area for miniature drag racing.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Great Lakes Dragaway

Great Lakes Dragaway is a historic quarter-mile drag strip. Arrive early for prime spectator spots, especially during popular events like Sick Summer. Consider bringing ear protection, as the roar of engines can be intense.

Event Tickets & Racing

Spectator tickets can be pricey, but offer a full day of high-octane action. Racers should check the schedule for open track days and specific event requirements. The track is well-organized, making it a great experience for both watching and participating.

Best Times

When
Event days
Why
Experience the full thrill
Crowd
High
When
Open track days
Why
See racers in action
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Love Racing at Great Lakes Dragaway ... #gregsspeedshop #fyp #dragracing #thejoker #jokerlife
gregsspeedshop
0 likes β€’ 15.1K views

🎯 Bring Ear Protection

The sound of drag racing is deafening! Earplugs or earmuffs are a must for comfort. Reddit

🎟️ Spectator Tickets

Tickets can be pricey, but offer a full day of entertainment. Plan your visit around major events for the best experience. Reddit

Great Lakes Dragaway πŸ™ƒ my second home 🏠
mojo.media1
203 likes β€’ 1.8K views
Thought I’d post with raw sound! If anyone knows the guy taking a video in my video please hit me up! #bydesignxr #evospec #8secondstreetcar #greatlakesdragaway #racing #porsche #fastcars #streetcar #porscheracing
911_frankenstein
342 likes β€’ 21.1K views

πŸš— Check Event Schedule

From monthly shows to major events like Sick Summer, know what's happening to catch the best action. Instagram

πŸ“Έ Capture the Speed

Bring your camera to snap photos of the incredible machines and thrilling races. Instagram

Great lakes dragaway #wisconsin
aka.axxen
5 likes β€’ 337 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Ear Protection

The sound of drag racing is deafening! Earplugs or earmuffs are a must for comfort. Reddit

🎟️ Spectator Tickets

Tickets can be pricey, but offer a full day of entertainment. Plan your visit around major events for the best experience. Reddit

πŸš— Check Event Schedule

From monthly shows to major events like Sick Summer, know what's happening to catch the best action. Instagram

πŸ“Έ Capture the Speed

Bring your camera to snap photos of the incredible machines and thrilling races. Instagram

πŸ‘ Friendly Atmosphere

Many visitors praise the welcoming and helpful staff and fellow enthusiasts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Great Lakes Dragaway for its exciting racing action and well-organized events, highlighting a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. While some find spectator tickets pricey, the overall experience is described as a blast with happy memories made. The historic track is well-maintained and offers a great show for both racers and fans.

"I went to this race track for a car show and drag race show. This was my first time and had a blast. It was a lot of fun and all was very well organized. The car show was packed with nice cars and great car guys and gals. The expectator tickets are pricey."

Roberto Mercado

"It's a an older track but people are si nice and helpful. I am a 67l almost 68 year old female, racing for hee 1st time and appreciate the friendly staff."

Joan Gragert

"I've been coming to GLD since 1972
Watching and racing
Some of my happiest memories are there
The way they run the track is great .showing the fans a good show
And treating the racers great
The facility's are kept up well and I feel safe racing there"

Vic Zujewski

What People Like

Exciting drag racing
Well-organized events
Friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Pricey spectator tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

Great Lakes Dragaway is located in Union Grove, Wisconsin, a drive of about an hour north of Chicago. Many visitors from the Chicago area make the trip for events. Consider driving as public transport options are limited. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is typically available for both spectators and racers. Arrive early on event days to secure a good spot. Instagram

Operating hours vary significantly based on scheduled events. It's best to check their official website or social media for specific event times. Instagram

While specific policies can vary, it's generally recommended to check the venue's rules regarding outside food and beverages before your visit. Concessions are available on-site. Reddit

The venue strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility information regarding seating and facilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Spectator ticket prices can be on the pricier side, especially for major events. It's recommended to check their official ticketing page for current pricing. Reddit

Tickets are typically available for purchase at the gate on event days, but buying in advance online is often recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save money. Instagram

Yes, there are usually separate fees for racers and spectators. Racers will need to pay an entry fee to compete. Instagram

A spectator ticket generally grants access to the grandstands and general viewing areas to watch the races and car shows. Reddit

Policies for children's tickets can vary by event. Check the specific event details for age restrictions and pricing for minors. Reddit

🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience

The primary focus is quarter-mile drag racing, featuring a wide array of vehicles from street cars to professional dragsters. They also host car shows and other automotive events. Instagram+1

Yes, Great Lakes Dragaway hosts open track days and specific racing events where you can race your own vehicle. Ensure your car meets safety requirements. Instagram

Grandstand seating offers a great view, but arriving early is key. Some visitors also enjoy watching from the sidelines closer to the track for an immersive experience. Reddit

Absolutely! They host car shows, and even have a dedicated area for RC drag racing, offering something for various automotive enthusiasts. Instagram

The atmosphere is often described as exciting and friendly, with a strong sense of community among racers and fans. Reddit

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Many visitors capture the thrilling action. Instagram

Experiment with different vantage points along the track. The starting line, finish line, and pit areas offer unique perspectives. Instagram

Typically, professional camera equipment is allowed for personal use. However, check specific event rules for any restrictions on professional media. Instagram

Expect to capture high-speed action shots, close-ups of powerful engines, and vibrant displays of custom cars. Instagram+1

While generally permitted, avoid obstructing views or entering restricted areas. Always be mindful of safety protocols. Instagram

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