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Bristol Motor Speedway

4.7
·10k reviews·Bristol, United States

The 'Last Great Colosseum' of motorsports, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts thrilling NASCAR races, drag racing, and unique events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall Race Weekends

Peak NASCAR excitement

CrowdHigh
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Bristol Motor Speedway

Best Time

Spring & Fall Race Weekends

Peak NASCAR excitement

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The 'Last Great Colosseum' of motorsports, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts thrilling NASCAR races, drag racing, and unique events.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"First time at Bristol and it was absolutely amazing! The best tram service and workers around."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Race Tickets Early

Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price.

👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes

The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

NASCAR Cup Series Races

NASCAR Cup Series Races

The Oval Track

Experience the thunderous roar of NASCAR's premier series on this iconic, high-banked short track. Pure adrenaline!

Speedway In Lights

Speedway In Lights

The Speedway Grounds

A magical drive-thru Christmas light display that transforms the track into a winter wonderland.

Bristol Dragway

Bristol Dragway

Adjacent to the Oval Track

Feel the raw power of NHRA drag racing with incredible acceleration and speed.

MLB at Bristol

MLB at Bristol

The Baseball Field

Witness professional baseball games hosted on a temporary field within the speedway.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

For major NASCAR events, securing your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets early is crucial. Popular races sell out, and prices can surge closer to the date. Consider seat views online to pick the best spot for the action.

Embrace the 'Last Great Colosseum'

Bristol Motor Speedway is known for its intense short-track racing and steep seating. Prepare for a loud, thrilling atmosphere. Many visitors recommend experiencing a night race for added excitement.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall Race Weekends
Why
Peak NASCAR excitement
Crowd
High
When
Holiday Season (late Nov-Jan)
Why
Magical Speedway In Lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-Season Weekdays
Why
Tours & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Being right up next to these cars is INSANE 🤯 really happy I got to meet some new people and experience this event up close and personal 🥹 #nhra #dragracing #girlswhodragrace #bristolmotorspeedway
senditshay
1.9K likes • 28.3K views

🎯 Book Race Tickets Early

Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price. Reddit

👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes

The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands. Reddit

Did you know: Bristol Motor Speedway is the largest amphitheater in the world with seating up to 162,000 people? It's also the seventh largest sports venue in the world. 🤯 While it's famous for hosting two NASCAR races - one of which on dirt even! - each year, the World of Outlaws, Stadium Super Trucks and Global Rallycross have visited The Last Great Colosseum as well. 🏁 🎥 - Bristol Motor Speedw...
pogona_tv
285 likes • 10.6K views
Safe to say NASCAR Bristol is a lot harder than it looks 😅.
podium1racing
8.1K likes • 928.5K views

🚗 Parking & Tram Service

Easy parking is available, with tram service to get you to the gates. Consider campgrounds for a full race weekend experience. Reddit

💡 Night Race Thrills

Many visitors rave about the night races for added excitement and action. InstagramReddit

🎄 ✨ Don’t miss out! 🚗 Only a few days left to experience the magical drive- thru Christmas lights at Bristol Motor Speedway. 🎄 We’re making the most of it before they say goodbye on January 4th! #christmaslights #northeasttennessee #bristolmotorspeedway #speedwayinlights #tnsoundsperfect #FamilyFun
northeasttenn
98 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Race Tickets Early

Popular NASCAR races sell out fast! Secure your Bristol Motor Speedway tickets well in advance for best selection and price. Reddit

👟 Steep Stands: Wear Comfy Shoes

The seating is famously steep. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the grandstands. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Tram Service

Easy parking is available, with tram service to get you to the gates. Consider campgrounds for a full race weekend experience. Reddit

💡 Night Race Thrills

Many visitors rave about the night races for added excitement and action. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget for Food & Drink

Concessions can be pricey. Some visitors suggest bringing your own food and drinks if allowed. Reddit

📸 Capture the Action

Get ready for incredible photo ops, especially from the high banks. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the thrilling atmosphere and intense racing action at Bristol Motor Speedway, often calling it an amazing experience. The venue's scale and the excitement of night races are frequently highlighted. However, some find concession prices high and seating steepness challenging, with occasional issues regarding food availability in premium areas.

"Okay, so my review isn't so negative about Bristol, that was awesome for the most part. But I had tickets to the Busch Banks and Brews area, and to be honest it wasn't as great as what I was expecting. Chips and beer, mixed drinks were limited, bathrooms were a long ways away and food services were just as far of a walk. We had level one, or white access; not sure how much the next level would have cost. So, not that great for the extra money. Now, the seats, were great! The view awesome! And the race, amazing! First time and was really impressed with the race!"

Ray Montgomery

"First time at Bristol and it was absolutely amazing! The only bad thing was 7 dollars for a hot dog. Not going to have that take away from the overall experience. The best tram service and workers around. Everyone was super helpful. Definitely coming back! Night race at Bristol was amazing! So much more action!"

Jonathon Milson

"Stopped by for the Christmas Lights display. Many communities and cities throughout Tennessee take part. The time spent is worth it. I learned something new while I was there."

Willie Haynesworth

What People Like

Incredible racing action
Thrilling atmosphere
Iconic venue

What People Dislike

High concession prices
Steep seating
Premium area food issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bristol Motor Speedway is located in Bristol, Tennessee. Major airports nearby include Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI), about a 30-minute drive away. Driving is common, with clear signage from major highways like I-81. Many visitors opt for RVs and camping for race weekends. Reddit

Public transportation directly to the speedway is limited. Most attendees drive or use shuttle services provided by local businesses or campgrounds during major events. Reddit

Traffic can be heavy on race days. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid the worst congestion. Consider using GPS apps that provide real-time traffic updates. Reddit

The speedway offers various parking options, including general parking lots and premium reserved spots. Campgrounds across the street also provide parking and a lively atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, daily tours are often available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the 'Last Great Colosseum.' Check the official website for tour schedules and booking information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for NASCAR races and other events can be purchased directly from the official Bristol Motor Speedway website, authorized ticket retailers, or resale marketplaces. Booking early is advised. Reddit

Ticket prices vary widely based on the event, seating location, and how far in advance you purchase. Expect prices to range from around $50 for basic seats to several hundred dollars for premium packages. Reddit

Absolutely! Bristol offers a wide range of seating options, from general admission to luxury suites. Consider seat view photos online to find the best vantage point for the action. Reddit

Policies can vary by event. For NASCAR races, some outside food and non-alcoholic beverages in clear bags are often permitted, but it's best to check the specific event guidelines. Some premium areas have restrictions. Reddit

Operating hours vary significantly depending on whether there's an event. For tours, check the official website. Race weekends typically have gates opening several hours before the main event. Reddit

🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience

Bristol Motor Speedway is famous for its NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series races, but also hosts NHRA drag racing, dirt racing events, concerts, and the popular 'Speedway In Lights' holiday display. TikTokInstagram

It's electric! Known as 'The Last Great Colosseum,' the atmosphere is intense with roaring engines, passionate fans, and the thrill of short-track racing. Night races are particularly spectacular. InstagramReddit

Yes, many events include fan zones with activities for all ages, making it a family-friendly destination. The 'Speedway In Lights' is a great family outing. Instagram

The grandstands are known for being very steep, offering excellent sightlines but requiring careful navigation. Some visitors find them challenging, especially for the elderly. Reddit

Wi-Fi availability can be spotty, especially during large events. It's advisable to download any necessary information or apps beforehand. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

A variety of concession stands offer typical trackside fare like hot dogs, burgers, and snacks. Premium seating areas may have more diverse or upscale options. Reddit

Concessions can be pricey, with items like hot dogs costing around $7. Some visitors recommend bringing your own food and drinks if permitted by event rules. Reddit

Check the specific event's policy, as rules can vary. For NASCAR races, small coolers with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are often allowed, but always verify beforehand. Reddit

Options can be limited, but you might find some basic choices like salads or fries. It's best to inquire at concession stands or check event guides for specific offerings. Reddit

These areas offer a more exclusive experience with dedicated food and drink options. However, some visitors found them to be not as great as expected for the extra cost, with limited food variety and distant restrooms. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The high banks offer dramatic perspectives of the track and cars. Consider elevated seating for wider shots. The pit area (if accessible) and fan zones also provide great photo opportunities. TikTok

Camera policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras with detachable lenses may be restricted for NASCAR races. Check the official website for specific rules regarding camera equipment. Instagram

Action shots of cars on the track, wide-angle views of the packed grandstands, and close-ups of the intense racing action are popular. Capturing the sheer scale of the venue is also a must. TikTokInstagram

Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited at Bristol Motor Speedway due to safety and security regulations, especially during events. Instagram

For races, the 'golden hour' before sunset or during twilight for night races offers dramatic lighting. Daytime tours provide good natural light for capturing the venue's architecture. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bristol Motor Speedway offers a thrilling experience for families, especially during events like the 'Speedway In Lights' holiday display, which is a magical outing for all ages. Instagram For race weekends, the speedway often features fan zones with activities designed to entertain children, making it a fun destination for the whole family. Instagram While the steep stands require supervision, the excitement of the races can be captivating for younger spectators. Consider bringing ear protection for children due to the high noise levels during events. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

To make a trip to Bristol Motor Speedway more budget-friendly, consider purchasing tickets in advance and looking for general admission or less premium seating options. Reddit While concessions can be expensive, checking the event's policy on bringing outside food and non-alcoholic beverages can save money. Reddit Exploring nearby towns for accommodation and dining can also be more cost-effective than staying directly in Bristol. Attending during the off-season for tours can be a very affordable way to experience the venue. Reddit

💑 Couples

A race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway can be an exciting and memorable experience for couples. Opt for seats with a good view of the entire track to soak in the atmosphere together. Reddit Consider attending a night race for a particularly dramatic and romantic setting under the lights. Instagram Beyond the races, exploring the local area or enjoying a nice dinner in Bristol can complement the thrill of the speedway. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Last Great Colosseum': A Unique Track

Bristol Motor Speedway, affectionately known as 'The Last Great Colosseum,' is a legendary quarter-mile oval with incredibly steep 24-30 degree banking. This unique design creates intense, close-quarters racing where drivers are constantly battling for position. The high banks mean cars are thrown down into the corners, leading to thrilling action and frequent 'carnage,' as fans call it. Instagram+1 It's a track that demands precision and bravery, making every race a spectacle. Instagram+1

Beyond its iconic oval, Bristol also features the Bristol Dragway, a premier NHRA drag racing facility. This dual-purpose venue allows for a variety of motorsports experiences, from the thunder of stock cars to the explosive acceleration of dragsters. TikTok The speedway has also hosted unique events like Major League Baseball games, showcasing its versatility. Instagram

Visiting Bristol Motor Speedway is more than just watching a race; it's an immersive experience. The sheer scale of the venue, capable of holding over 160,000 spectators, creates an unparalleled atmosphere. TikTok Whether you're there for a NASCAR weekend, a drag race, or the festive 'Speedway In Lights,' the energy is palpable. Instagram

Navigating Race Day Logistics

Attending a major race at Bristol Motor Speedway requires some planning. Parking is extensive, with options ranging from general lots to premium spaces and even campgrounds across the street. Reddit Many visitors opt for RV camping, turning race weekends into a festive, extended event. Shuttle services are often available to ferry fans from parking areas and campgrounds to the grandstands, helping to manage the large crowds. Reddit

When it comes to food and beverages, be prepared for typical trackside pricing, which can be on the higher side. Reddit While some events allow attendees to bring in their own food and non-alcoholic drinks (often in clear bags), it's crucial to check the specific event's policy beforehand. Reddit Some premium seating areas, like the 'Busch Banks and Brews,' offer dedicated amenities, but reviews suggest they might not always justify the extra cost. Reddit

The seating itself is a notable feature. The grandstands are exceptionally steep, providing excellent sightlines but requiring careful navigation. Reddit Comfortable footwear is a must. For those concerned about accessibility, it's wise to inquire about specific seating arrangements or assistance options when purchasing tickets. Reddit

Beyond the Races: Year-Round Attractions

While Bristol Motor Speedway is synonymous with NASCAR, its appeal extends throughout the year. The 'Speedway In Lights' event during the holiday season transforms the entire venue into a dazzling drive-thru Christmas light display, attracting families and visitors looking for festive fun. Instagram

For motorsports enthusiasts, the Bristol Dragway offers a different kind of thrill with NHRA events, showcasing incredible acceleration and speed. TikTok The speedway has also proven its versatility by hosting unique events like Major League Baseball games, demonstrating its capacity to adapt for various sporting spectacles. Instagram

Daily tours of the speedway are often available, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and operations of 'The Last Great Colosseum.' These tours are a great way to experience the venue's grandeur even when there isn't a major event happening. Reddit

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