
Bowman Gray Stadium
NASCAR's oldest weekly track, 'The Madhouse' delivers intense short-track racing, historic vibes, and a passionate atmosphere every Saturday night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Weekly racing action

Bowman Gray Stadium
Best Time
Weekly racing action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
NASCAR's oldest weekly track, 'The Madhouse' delivers intense short-track racing, historic vibes, and a passionate atmosphere every Saturday night.
"Looking for high-octane thrills, rich racing history, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere? Bowman Gray Stadium has it all."
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Tickets are often gate-only. Arrive early, especially for popular races, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.
👂 Pack Ear Protection
The 'Madhouse' lives up to its name with loud engines. Essential for kids and sensitive ears.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Madhouse Racing Action
The Track
Experience the thrill of NASCAR's oldest weekly track, where modified, stock, and sportsman cars battle it out. Expect close calls and intense competition.
Historic Short Track Vibes
The Stadium
Feel the legacy of racing legends like Richard Petty at NASCAR's first and longest-running weekly track, operating since 1937.
Demolition Derby Mayhem
The Track (Special Events)
Witness the ultimate destruction as cars collide and engines scream in a no-holds-barred demolition derby finale.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Spot at The Madhouse
Embrace the Madhouse Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Tickets are often gate-only. Arrive early, especially for popular races, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.
👂 Pack Ear Protection
The 'Madhouse' lives up to its name with loud engines. Essential for kids and sensitive ears.
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect crowds and potential traffic delays. Plan your route and parking strategy in advance.
🍔 Stadium Food Delights
Enjoy classic Southern stadium fare like BBQ sandwiches and funnel cakes – a tasty part of the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Tickets
Tickets are often gate-only. Arrive early, especially for popular races, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.
👂 Pack Ear Protection
The 'Madhouse' lives up to its name with loud engines. Essential for kids and sensitive ears.
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect crowds and potential traffic delays. Plan your route and parking strategy in advance.
🍔 Stadium Food Delights
Enjoy classic Southern stadium fare like BBQ sandwiches and funnel cakes – a tasty part of the experience.
🚭 Smoking Policy Awareness
Smoking is permitted in some areas. Be aware of designated smoking zones if you prefer a smoke-free environment.
💰 Wallet-Friendly Admission
Admission prices are generally affordable, making it a great value for a night of entertainment.
🧒 Kids Under 6 FREE
Bring the whole family! Children under 6 often get in for free, making it a budget-friendly outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bowman Gray Stadium, 'The Madhouse,' is celebrated for its historic track, intense short-track racing, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the affordable admission and family-friendly aspects, though some note issues with smoking in stands and occasional cold food. The track's legacy and the raw excitement of the races are consistent highlights.
"It's a cool place with a great atmosphere. The gates open around 5:45. I didn't like the call that was made to cancel the race for rain without giving it a shot to to dry the track. The bathrooms were clean and the food was ok but a little cold. This was my first time there I'll definitely go back hopefully to actually watch a race. The admission was wallet friendly."
CB Smith
"Absolutely love the madhouse just found it 2 years ago and so glad I did I haveet some amazing people and drivers there."
Katie Rose
"You SHOULD NOT allow people to smoke in the stands! It's 2025. If people want to smoke go to an designated area OUTSIDE if the stands. I shouldnt have to go to a NON smoking seating area to appease smokers... Great track Great parking, great seats for a short track. as packed as this place gets people shouldn't be allowed to smoke in the stands at all if you ask me. Also of they are putting this on TV/screen it would help to show the people talking in between the race on the big screen the winners circle etc. It would help the entire stadium"
Mandie S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bowman Gray Stadium is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Driving is the most common way to get there. Use GPS navigation to find the stadium at 1501 W 31st St, Winston-Salem, NC 27105. Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly on race nights.
Public transportation options in Winston-Salem might be limited for direct access to the stadium on race nights. It's best to check with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Driving or ride-sharing services are generally more convenient.
Expect significant traffic congestion leading up to and after races, especially on Saturday nights. Arriving early is highly recommended to navigate the crowds and find parking.
Yes, you can easily find directions to Bowman Gray Stadium using online map services like Google Maps. Simply search for 'Bowman Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, NC' for turn-by-turn navigation.
To minimize traffic stress, aim to arrive at least an hour before the gates open. This allows ample time to find parking and get settled before the main rush.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Bowman Gray Stadium races are typically available at the gate on the day of the event. For popular nights, it's advisable to arrive early to ensure you get tickets before they sell out.
Admission prices are generally considered wallet-friendly. While exact prices can vary by event, expect affordable rates, especially for general admission seating. Kids under 6 often get in free.
For most regular Saturday night races, tickets are available at the gate. However, for special events or highly anticipated races, purchasing in advance might be an option or a good idea to guarantee entry. Check the official schedule for details.
Gates typically open around 5:45 PM for Saturday night races, allowing attendees to get settled before the action begins. It's always a good idea to confirm opening times for specific events.
Bowman Gray Stadium offers various seating options, including general admission. The stadium provides good views of the short track action from most vantage points.
🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience
Bowman Gray Stadium hosts weekly NASCAR-sanctioned racing, including Modified, Sportsman, and Stock car divisions. It's known for its intense short-track action and occasional chaotic moments, earning it the nickname 'The Madhouse.'
'The Madhouse' is the popular nickname for Bowman Gray Stadium, reflecting the high-octane, often unpredictable, and thrilling nature of the racing that takes place there. It signifies the intense competition and passionate atmosphere.
Consider bringing ear protection, especially for children, due to the loud engines. Comfortable seating cushions can also enhance your experience. Sunscreen and hats are recommended for daytime events.
Yes, Bowman Gray Stadium is generally considered family-friendly, with kids under 6 often admitted for free. The excitement of the races can be engaging for all ages, though ear protection is advised for younger attendees.
Photography is generally allowed at Bowman Gray Stadium, but be mindful of professional media restrictions. Capturing the thrilling race action is a popular activity for attendees.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Bowman Gray Stadium offers classic Southern stadium food, including BBQ sandwiches, hot dogs, and sweet treats like funnel cakes. These are part of the authentic racetrack experience.
Reviews suggest the stadium food is decent and hits the spot, contributing to the overall charm of the event. While some may find it a bit cold, it's generally considered a satisfying part of the experience.
Specific vegetarian or vegan options may be limited, as stadium fare typically focuses on traditional offerings like hot dogs and BBQ. It's best to inquire at the concession stands for current availability.
Outside food and drink policies can vary. It's recommended to check the official Bowman Gray Stadium website or contact them directly for their current regulations on bringing outside items.
Popular items often include BBQ sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and sweet treats like funnel cakes. These are staples of the stadium food experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The grandstands offer a great vantage point for capturing the entire track and the energy of the crowd. For more dynamic shots, consider areas closer to the track (if accessible and safe) to photograph the cars in action.
While personal cameras are generally allowed, professional photography equipment or large lenses might be restricted. It's always a good idea to check the stadium's official policy regarding cameras and video recording.
Popular shots include close-ups of the race cars, the intensity of the drivers, dramatic overtakes, and the enthusiastic crowd. Capturing the 'Madhouse' atmosphere is key.
You can often photograph drivers during the races from the stands. For closer interaction or autographs, check if there are designated fan zones or meet-and-greet opportunities.
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action of the cars. A higher ISO might be necessary in lower light conditions, and continuous autofocus can help track moving vehicles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of 'The Madhouse'
The track's reputation for intense, close-quarters racing has cemented its 'Madhouse' moniker. It's a place where drivers often push the limits, leading to thrilling overtakes, dramatic crashes, and an electric atmosphere for spectators. This raw, unfiltered racing experience is what draws fans back week after week, making Bowman Gray Stadium a beloved institution in the world of stock car racing.
Beyond its racing legacy, Bowman Gray Stadium has also hosted other events, including college football games for Winston-Salem State University, adding to its versatility and community importance. The stadium's enduring appeal lies in its commitment to delivering authentic, high-octane entertainment that honors its rich history while embracing the excitement of modern racing.
Navigating Race Day at Bowman Gray
When it comes to the racing itself, expect a high level of intensity. The short track means cars are often in close proximity, leading to exciting battles for position and the occasional on-track incident. The 'Madhouse' nickname is well-earned, and while thrilling, it can also be quite loud. Bringing ear protection, especially for children, is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
Fans are passionate, and the energy in the stands is palpable. You'll see a variety of vehicles, from modified stock cars to sportsman racers, all vying for victory. Special events, like demolition derbies, add an extra layer of excitement and chaos to the schedule, drawing even larger crowds. Remember that smoking is permitted in certain areas, so be aware of your surroundings if you are sensitive to smoke.
The Thrill of Short Track Racing
The tight confines of the track mean that drivers must be exceptionally skilled and strategic. Mistakes are costly, and the margin for error is slim. This often leads to thrilling side-by-side racing, daring passes on the inside or outside, and the potential for spectacular crashes that keep the crowd on the edge of their seats. The constant action and the raw intensity are what make short track racing so captivating for fans.
This style of racing also fosters a unique connection between drivers and fans. The drivers are often local heroes, and their battles on the track are intensely personal. Spectators can feel the raw emotion and the fierce competition, making each race a compelling narrative. Bowman Gray Stadium's commitment to weekly short track racing ensures that this thrilling brand of motorsport remains a vibrant part of the racing landscape.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit