What is the Daytona 500?

Every race car enthusiasts knows about the Daytona 500. But, for those who have only heard about it once or twice and are not too sure what it entails you’ll enjoy reading this post. The Great Amazing Race is a 500 mile-long Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series motor race held annually at Daytona International Speedway. It covers 500 miles and 200 laps around the track. The race is located in the heart of Daytona Florida, just 4 miles from the beach. Daytona international speedway hosts motor events all year long, but the most popular event known throughout the United States is the Daytona 500.

The weeks leading up to the race are exciting as the 40 competitors gear up for claiming the title “Daytona 500 Champion.” Locals and visitors come from around the globe to watch the industries leading annual race. The visitors enjoy relaxing in Daytona Beach days before the race begins and gathering in local breweries and restaurants to discuss the competition. There is about 100,000 people present at the race and over 24 million viewers watching it live on television, so tickets to attend Daytona 500 sell out rather quickly. If you are planning to go, it is wise to buy your tickets months in advance.

FUN FACTS ABOUT DAYTONA 500:

– Also called “ The Great American Race”
– The first Daytona 500 was held in the year 1959
– The race typically lasts for 3.5 hours from start to finish
– It is the first of two Cup races held annually at Daytona International Speedway
– The First Daytona 500 was held in 1959

ABOUT THE RACE

This is hands down the biggest race of the year. One commentator said that it is also one of the hardest race to win. Anyone who wins Daytona 500 becomes a member of a very exclusive club. Daytona has made heroes and built long lasting careers. It has made dreams come true for its contestants and broken hearts for others.

We invite you, to come, bring the family and watch as the worlds top racers compete for the grand prize. Racing with an average speed of about 200 miles per hour for a total of 2.5 miles or 200 laps around the track. The two drivers who complete a lap with the fastest time are awarded the first and second starting positions for the Daytona 500.

HOW MUCH DO THE TICKETS COST?

Just like any big event, there are varying ticket prices. At the Daytona International Speedway there are five different sections. Turn 1, Turn 4, Pit Out, Pit in, and the Start/Finish area. The turn sections have seats that are on the outer edges of the track. The most costly seats are typically pit upper, and pit middle. Ranging from about $230 and up. If you are wanting to go on one of the cheaper tickets, that will cost you about $95. When thinking about getting tickets for the start/finish line, those seats require a package deal which starts at $340. So in conclusion, your cheapest tickets cost $95 and packages go up to $695. There are tickets available to anyone on the official Daytona International Speedway website, and other major ticket sites. Always remember the best seats sell out quickly, so make sure to buy your tickets far in advance.

WHAT TO BRING TO THE SPEEDWAY

Besides your ticket for the race, there are a few extra things we recommend bringing to the race so you are more comfortable. 

– Binoculars
– Earplugs
– Jacket or Sweater
– Rain Ponchos
– Cash for Snacks/Drinks
– Sunscreen
– Sunglasses
– Hat
– Comfortable Shoes
– Sharpie and Memorabilia
– Camera
– Seat Cushion
– Flags or Signs

The speedway does allow you to bring your own food or snacks to the race in a soft sided cooler. But the cooler cannot exceed the measurements of 14”x14”x14”. If you are sensitive to sound, we recommend bringing your own ear plugs, or headphones because the competing 40 race cars can get very loud while they take hundreds of laps around the racetrack. If you are a fan of a specific racer, bring your own sharpie to enter the fanzone to get any memorabilia you might have purchased signed by all your favorite racers. 

COME AND JOIN US FOR THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR

Now the question is, will you come and join us as we attend next years annual Daytona 500 for an experience you will never forget? It has sold out the past few years, so get your tickets now to guarantee your seats! Be ready for action, speed, and unforgettable moments to cherish withe the ones you love. Looking for a place to stay? Or would like to learn more about what our county has to offer. Such as, What Makes Smyrna Dunes So Enjoyable? Read our blog post next, and click here to learn about Volusia County Power Washing. Visit any of the following towns in Volusia County for more fun.