Feel the Need for Speed?
A racing vacation is just what you might need to get rid of the winter blahs. So grab a cooler of beer, bucket of fried chicken, your favorite trucker hat, and make a pit stop at one of these racetracks:
Charlotte flights | hotels | cars
North Carolina seems to breed race car drivers, maybe it’s something in the BBQ sauce or maybe the number of racetracks that dot the state. Lowe’s Motor Speedway, aka “The Beast of the Southeast”, is considered to be one of the most exciting tracks in the country–just ask general manager “Humpy” Wheeler (not making that name up). Plan your trip around the NEXTEL All-Star Challenge on May 19 or the Coca-Cola 600 on May 27.
Don’t miss: North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame in nearby Mooresville.
Indianapolis flights | hotels | cars
You can’t leave Indianapolis off your racing vacation list. The Indianapolis 500 has been called “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” (not by NASCAR fans) so book your trip now for the 91st race on May 27. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located in Speedway, IN (not making that up either) is the only racing facility in the world, past or present, to host an Indy Car, Formula One and NASCAR race all in the same calendar year.
Don’t miss: The Hall of Fame Museum and track tour.
Atlanta flights | hotels | cars
If you’ve always wanted to take a few laps around the race track, we recommend a trip to the Atlanta Motor Speedway. The Georgia 500 isn’t until October, but you can still earn your chops at the Richard Petty Driving Experience located at the Atlanta Motor Speedway where classes range from $399 to $2,499. You can also ride shotgun with a pro for only $99.
Don’t miss: If you can’t afford the school, the NASCAR Silicon Motor Speedway, in the Mall of Georgia, offers a simulated racing experience.
Nurburg flights | hotels | cars
Travel abroad to get a taste of Bavarian racing culture on Germany’s Nurburgring track. Go July 22 for the Grand Prix or if you’re itching to put pedal to metal, purchase tickets to drive around the track in your own car, or spend a little more to be chauffeured by a pro. The latter ride comes equipped with a puke bag which you can take home as a souvenir. Once you’ve mastered the art of racing, venture out to the Autobahn where the roads are straighter but the drivers are crazier.
Don’t miss: Historic Nurburg Castle built in the 12th century.
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