September 23, 2024
Along with a snapshot of stock car racing’s roots and fast facts about the sport, this article includes information to help you plan the ultimate NASCAR experience in Cabarrus County, North Carolina. Read on for:
- An outline of Charlotte Motor Speedway’s major NASCAR events and insider tips for visiting
- A list of nearby NASCAR-related hot spots you won’t find anywhere else
- Links to helpful resources you can bookmark and access later
About NASCAR
During prohibition, moonshiners needed to outrun the law to deliver their illegal whiskey. These souped up cars and skilled drivers eventually made their way onto the track and stock car racing was born on the beaches of Daytona. Today, the industry continues to bring motorsports-based businesses, aspiring drivers, thrill seekers and fans from all over the world to Cabarrus County.
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the world’s premier stock car racing series. It has three national divisions: The CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, Xfinity Series and elite NASCAR Cup Series which currently features champions like Kyle Busch and Joey Logano, and in previous years included well-known drivers such as Richard Petty and Kannapolis natives, Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Dale Jr.
If you’re new to the sport or just need a refresher, here’s a quick look at NASCAR by the numbers:
1 Champion Each Year, decided after the playoffs. Drivers qualify for the playoffs based on performance throughout the regular season including race wins and finishes.
3 Stages in Each Race which include a predetermined number of laps and have a winner for each stage, denoted by the green checkered flag. Action resumes as cars are bunched up for restarts, and the driver leading at the end of the final stage is the race winner. At 600 miles, the Coca-Cola 600 is the longest race of the NASCAR season and is the exception with four stages.
3 Terms you’ll hear often during a race. Brush up on more lingo with this guide from NASCAR.
- Groove: The best, fastest route around the track with the “high groove” closer to the outside wall and “low groove” closer to the apron.
- Loose: When rear tires have trouble sticking causing the car’s backend to fishtail in turns. When a car is tight, the front tires don’t get enough grip on the track and the car steers toward the wall.
- Pit Crew: The driver’s team responsible for changing tires, refueling and adjusting the car during pit stops. Other essential team members include the team leader or Crew Chief and the Spotter who communicates with the driver when on the track, acting as a second set of eyes.
15 Flags or Flag Combinations are used to communicate with drivers during a race. Each has a different meaning, and you’ll spot a NASCAR official above the start/finish line waving them including these four:
- Green: Means go! Used for starts and restarts.
- Yellow: Caution flag slows the field and brings out the pace car.
- White: One lap to go! Signals the final lap of the race.
- Checkered: Signals the end of the race.
Each year, the NASCAR season kicks off with the Daytona 500 in February and ends in November. Teams travel across the country racing at a different track every week. Crews prepare throughout the week at their race shops, many of which are in Cabarrus County and the surrounding area. Inside NASCAR Race Shops, you can shop gear and get a behind-the-scenes look at teams like Hendrick Motorsports and RFK Racing.
When race ready, cars are loaded onto haulers and transported to the track. NASCAR haulers are also impressive machines equipped with everything a team needs. In years past, fans have had the chance to get up close and personal with these big rigs as they enter Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Resource: NASCAR 101
Main Events
Located in Concord, Charlotte Motor Speedway hosts NASCAR national division races each year including two Cup Series races. Charlotte Motor Speedway is a 1.5-mile oval with 24-degree banking in all four turns. In the fall, the track transforms into a 2.28-mile hybrid road course/oval with 17 turns called ROVAL.
Known as “America’s Home for Racing,” Charlotte Motor Speedway has been putting fans first for over 60 years and keeps them coming back with innovative upgrades and unmatched entertainment. Both spring and fall are ideal seasons to visit with these major NASCAR events to plan your vacation around.
Coca-Cola 600 (Spring)
The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series NC Education Lottery 200 and the Xfinity Series BetMGM 300 prime fans for an incredible finale—the Cup Series Coca-Cola 600. This historic event is the nation’s most patriotic sports event and provides an awe-inspiring setting to celebrate Memorial Day weekend. Witness a spectacular salute to our military and see NASCAR’s best drivers tackle the toughest, longest race of the season.
Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 (Fall)
This playoff race narrows the field to eight drivers who can still compete for the championship. The ROVAL is a hybrid course–a combination of Charlotte Motor Speedway’s traditional oval and an infield road course. Before Cup Series drivers beat and bang around this challenging track, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race takes place on Friday and Xfinity Series stars will suit up for a Saturday afternoon showdown during the Drive for the Cure 250.
Resource: Charlotte Motor Speedway Event Schedule
Tips for Visiting Charlotte Motor Speedway
Arrive early! A NASCAR race is an all-day event. Make plans to visit the Fan Zone before the race to enjoy live music, games, food and vendors including the Explore Cabarrus Fan Van and mobile visitor center.
Located outside Turn 1 near the track’s main entrance, you can walk to the Fan Zone or catch a tram from parking lots. Before heading into the track, stop by to play games, win prizes and pick up a free Destination Guide. Pro tip: The last page is an autograph page!
You’ll spend the entire day outdoors, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Ear protection is also a must. With a scanner from Racing Electronics, you can control the noise and keep up with your favorite driver. Rent one in advance and listen in with the headset to hear the team’s communications when on track.
Upgrade your experience with options like the Pre-Race Track Pass which gives you up-close access to the pre-race concert, driver Q&As and more on race day. In addition to races, be sure to catch practice and qualifying sessions. Plus, CMS leads the industry in pre-race entertainment, so you’ll want to arrive early to witness breathtaking flyovers, driver introductions and live music by top acts. Call or visit CMS online for details on ticket packages, additional upgrades and other deals. Already have tickets? Download the CMS app for all the information you need such as schedules, real-time updates and helpful track map.
Resource: Fan FAQ on CharlotteMotorSpeedway.com
Plan a Trip
Come for the adrenaline-pumping NASCAR events, stay to explore motorsports museums and more.
A true bucket list destination for race fans, Cabarrus County is the only place on earth where you can tour or experience an event at Charlotte Motor Speedway, step inside NASCAR Race Shops, tour legendary driver Dale Earnhardt’s hometown and be immersed in the sport’s history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame—all in one visit.
You can even get behind the wheel yourself with karting at K1 Speed and stock car ride and drive experiences. Less than a mile from the Speedway, get a glimpse of movie and motorsports history at Morrison Motor Car Museum where cars from the film “Talladega Nights” are on display. A short drive to Earnhardt’s hometown of Kannapolis takes you to The Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza as well as Curb Museum where motorsports collides with North Carolina’s music heritage.
Along with these racing attractions, Cabarrus County is home to even more adrenaline-fueled activities like indoor skydiving and trekking through underground mine tunnels at Reed Gold Mine – home of America’s first gold discovery. Add endless shopping options, local places to eat and drink, and family fun at spots like SEA LIFE Aquarium and you’re on the way to one unforgettable adventure.
Get inspired by browsing the Cabarrus County, NC Destination Guide and start planning your trip now with these Places to Stay. Camping is available.
Resource: Cabarrus County, NC Destination Guide
Want to Learn More?
We’re always here to help! Stop by or call the Visitor Information Center at 800-848-3740. For answers on the go, connect with @ExploreCabarrus on social media using #ExploreCabarrus.
