Martinsville, Virginia

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The Rookie's Guide to Race Day

Is this your first race at Martinsville Speedway? If so don’t worry, we have lots of valuable information to help you have the Ultimate Martinsville Speedway Experience! 

What do I need to bring? What can I take in? Where do I park? How do I dress?  What time should I arrive at the track? We can answer these and other questions you may have. If you have questions that aren’t answered below, be sure to call the Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center at 1.888.PACE.4.YU or the Martinsville Speedway at 1.877.RACE.TIX.

Planning ahead and bringing along the right items can make your day an enjoyable one, no matter the conditions. Temperatures can vary throughout race weekend so wear comfortable clothing that you can layer or bring a light jacket with you. When the sun comes out and hits the grandstands it feels so nice, but be sure to pack some sunscreen so that you do not get burnt. 

The earlier you arrive at the track, the more time you have to explore! Fan gates open at 9:00 a.m. for Pole Day on Friday, the Kroger 250 on Saturday and the STP Gas Booster 500 on Sunday.  Decide what you would like do and how much time you would like to allot yourself. There are lots of Pre-Race activities and lots of things to see at the Exhibit Pavilion and Souvenir Vendor Display area. The Martinsville Speedway also offers Pre-Race Track Passes, Martinsville Speedway Fan Zone tickets and All-Access Pre-Race Gold Passes to offer you the ultimate fan experience. Visit www.martinsvillespeedway.com complete details.

Free parking is available in the fields outside of the track. Many updates and improvements have been made this year to help with traffic flow. Or if you prefer, parking, with various pricing, is available along 220 business offered by local businesses and homeowners. Note that this may cause more walking- but more ease once departing the Speedway. This is simply a matter of preference. Note that the Martinsville Speedway provides numerous accessible features for their disabled guest. For more information on those features, call 1.866.472.8725 or 276.956.7200. 

Make sure that you have your tickets, photo ID for adult beverages and money or credit/debit card. Accessories that will make your day go smoother are a good set of ear plugs or a head set and a seat cushion or blanket to sit on. You can toss your supplies and souvenirs in a daypack that should be no longer than 17" in length. If you forgot any supplies, you'll find that most of the vendor trailers sell these necessities.

 Before finding your seat be sure to stop by the official VisitMartinsville Hospitality Booth, located within the display area to get your free souvenir photo taken and try to win great prizes like seat cushions and drink koozies. 

The concession stands have wonderful food but if you plan to bring in your own snacks and drinks, make sure your cooler is no larger than 14" x 14" x 14" (wheels and telescoping handles are not permitted).  Guards will check your cooler and bag prior to entering the grandstands so expect some delay and remember not to pack any glass containers. Even if you bring your own food, you've got to have at least one Famous Martinsville Speedway Hot Dog! 

Enjoy your visit and remember...