Daytona International Speedway
Location:
Daytona Beach, Florida, USA
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Daytona International Speedway
|
DAYTONA
Nascar Cup
28 - 29 Aug
|
Track Info
Daytona International Speedway - Daytona Beach, USA
Superspeedway tri-oval with an infield road course - clockwise - 31 degree high banks and the Rolex 24 at Daytona
When was the track built?
Bill France Sr. built Daytona as NASCAR's high-speed showpiece to replace the beach-road course era. Construction finished for early 1959 testing, and the venue immediately set new standards for speed and scale with its steeply banked, 2.5 mile tri-oval. The infield road course arrived for sports cars, eventually becoming the 3.56 mile layout used today for the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
The facility has evolved continually with SAFER barriers, repaves and lighting, but its defining geometry remains the 31 degree corner banking and vast grandstands flanking the tri-oval frontstretch.
When was its first race?
The speedway's first race headliner was the Daytona 500 on February 22, 1959, a landmark photo-finish classic won by Lee Petty. Endurance racing soon followed, with the 24-hour sports car event growing into the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
What's the circuit like?
- Tri-oval spectacle: 31 degree banks generate huge cornering loads and sustained pack speeds. The 18 degree tri-oval creates slingshot finishes at the line.
- Road course rhythm: The infield adds technical complexes and the fast Bus Stop chicane on the backstretch before cars rejoin the banking. Multi-class traffic is the Rolex 24 signature.
- Drafting and strategy: On the tri-oval, aerodynamics and lane discipline decide results. On the road course, stint length, traffic management and night running are key.
- Benchmark pace: NASCAR Cup race lap record 0:43.682 on the oval; DPi race lap 1:33.724 on the road course illustrates modern prototype speed.
- Banking and width: Corners banked at 31 degrees with a 40 ft racing surface, enabling sustained side-by-side running at superspeedway velocities.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- NASCAR Cup Series - tri-oval race lap: 0:43.682 - Erik Jones, 2020 Daytona 500.
- IMSA DPi - road course race lap: 1:33.724 - Álex Palou, 2022 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
- LMDh - road course race lap (recent): 1:35.554 - Tom Blomqvist, 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
- Closed-course speed record at Daytona: 222.917 mph - Colin Braun, Riley-Ford prototype, 2013 record run.
Why go?
A cathedral of American motorsport - from the season-opening Daytona 500 to the Rolex 24 endurance epic. The scale, the night running, the drafting packs and sunrise over the high banks make Daytona a bucket-list experience whether you love stock cars, prototypes or GTs.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Tri-oval grandstands: Start-finish, pack runs and photo-finish sprints with panoramic pit views.
- Turn 4 exit: See momentum builds off the banking into the tri-oval where races are decided.
- International Horseshoe (road course): Heavy braking and divebombs early in the lap during the Rolex 24.
- Bus Stop chicane: Prototype versus GT traffic fights at very high speed before the long pull onto NASCAR Turns 3 and 4.
- Night into sunrise: Any infield mound or grandstand facing the banking offers unforgettable night visuals and dawn stints during the Rolex 24.
Not just one race: Daytona's headline events
Daytona 500: The Great American Race opens the NASCAR Cup season with pack drafting and strategy fireworks.
Rolex 24 at Daytona: IMSA's season opener for GTP prototypes and GTD Pro/GT classes on the 3.56 mile road course.
Michelin Pilot Challenge, VP Racing SportsCar Challenge and MX-5 Cup: Support series fill out the Roar and Rolex 24 weeks with tight multi-class racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Daytona International Speedway - Daytona Beach, Florida
Best options are Votran city buses to International Speedway Blvd stops, rideshare or taxi to the official Lot 1 drop zone, walking from ONE DAYTONA via the pedestrian bridges, and pre-booked or event-designated parking. The venue operates internal trams and ADA carts on major events like the DAYTONA 500 and Rolex 24.
Public transport - Votran buses to the Speedway
- Routes serving the area: Votran lists 10, 11A, 11B, 18, 19, 60 for Daytona International Speedway. Use stops on International Speedway Blvd such as ISB & Nova, ISB & Midway, or ISB & Bill France.
- Race week detours: Routes are often adjusted around the venue on Speedweeks and Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekends. Check Votran alerts before travel.
- Tools: Live maps and schedules are on the Votran site and apps if you prefer real time info.
Rideshare and taxis
- Official drop off - pick up: The speedway’s designated rideshare zone is near Lot 1 using the frontage street by Cracker Barrel on International Speedway Blvd eastbound. Follow event signage on approach.
- After the checkered flag: Demand is heavy. Consider walking to ONE DAYTONA or a signed pick zone before requesting.
Driving and parking
- Event dependent: DIS notes free parking for many events, while premium or paid lots are offered for marquee races. Always use the Directions & Parking page for your specific event.
- Airport option on 500 Sunday: Daytona Beach International Airport occasionally offers paid race day parking for the DAYTONA 500. Check the airport notice for the current year.
- Follow the map: Facility maps highlight Ride Share zones, ADA parking, and Tram lines to help you choose the closest lot for your gate.
Walking routes and pedestrian bridges
- From ONE DAYTONA: Two pedestrian bridges connect ONE DAYTONA to the speedway side, positioned by Bass Pro Shops and near the Fairfield Inn & Suites. This is a convenient approach if you park or stay across the street.
- Inside the venue: Use the marked Tram routes and ADA cart stops shown on the event facility map if your seats are far from the gate.
Airports and long distance travel
- Daytona Beach International Airport DAB → Speedway: immediately adjacent on International Speedway Blvd. Taxis and rideshare are available from the terminal.
- Orlando area connection: If flying to MCO, plan 60 to 80 minutes by car to Daytona Beach in normal traffic, then follow DIS event directions. (Use DIS parking page for lot assignments.)
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Lot 1 and rideshare zone: closest to frontstretch gates and tram hubs on the speedway side.
- ONE DAYTONA parking: use the pedestrian bridges to reach ticketed gates on the frontstretch concourse.
- Votran bus stops on ISB: stops at ISB & Nova or ISB & Midway place you a short walk from perimeter entry depending on the event’s security footprint.
Always check your e-ticket and the Directions & Parking page for your event week. Race operations can change parking lot usage, detours, and shuttle or tram patterns.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Daytona International Speedway (Daytona Beach, Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the Daytona 500 and Speedweeks, Supercross, MotoAmerica’s Daytona 200 or a club weekend, Daytona pairs on-site motorsport attractions with beaches, lighthouses, nature springs and easy day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Daytona International Speedway Tours: Guided tram tours of the tri-oval, victory lane and infield on non event days. Pair with the on-site Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
- ONE DAYTONA: Dining, cinema and family-friendly spaces directly across from the speedway - easy evenings after practice.
- Daytona Lagoon Waterpark: Seasonal slides, lazy river and an arcade - a cool-down option for kids.
- Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier: Ferris wheel, arcades and ocean views - great at sunset.
- Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum: Climb Florida’s tallest lighthouse for sweeping coastal views; small maritime museums at the base.
- Marine Science Center (Ponce Inlet): Sea turtle and seabird rehabilitation exhibits - short, engaging stop for families.
Waterparks and tour operations vary by season and event schedules - check the calendar for your exact dates.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- MOAS - Museum of Arts & Sciences: Planetarium, natural history and the Cici & Hyatt Brown collection of Florida art.
- Halifax Historical Museum: Local history inside a 1910s bank building - quick downtown stop.
- Daytona Bandshell shows: Seasonal beachfront concerts and movies - check listings for race week extras.
- Wilbur-by-the-Sea and Ormond Scenic Loop: Coastal drives with photo stops, easy to pair with cafés when showers roll through.
Eat and drink like a local
- Beachside seafood shacks: Fresh catches, shrimp baskets and fish tacos near the pier and along A1A.
- Riverfront and Sunset decks: Halifax River spots for oysters and sundowners after qualifying.
- Craft beer & BBQ: Breweries and smokehouses cluster around downtown and Beach Street - good for groups.
- Race week tip: Reserve Friday and Saturday dinners early during Speedweeks, Bike Week and summer concert nights.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Drive or bike on the beach: Designated sections of Daytona and New Smyrna allow beach driving at low tide; wide firm sand is also great for morning runs.
- Tomoka State Park & Ormond Scenic Loop: Short trails, kayak rentals and birding on calm inland waters.
- Blue Spring State Park (manatees in winter): Boardwalks over crystal water - manatee viewing peaks on cool days.
- De Leon Springs State Park: Swim spring runs and make-your-own griddle pancakes at the historic sugar mill restaurant.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- St. Augustine - About 1 hour. Castillo de San Marcos, walkable historic district and boat tours - perfect full day.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex - 1 to 1.5 hours. Space shuttle Atlantis, Saturn V and launch pads - check for launch attempts.
- New Smyrna Beach - 30 to 40 minutes. Surf town feel, galleries and Canaveral National Seashore access.
- Orlando add-ons - 1 to 1.5 hours. Theme parks, ICON Park wheel and dining - ambitious but doable between race days if you start early.
- Ocala National Forest - 1 to 1.5 hours. Springs like Juniper and Silver Glen for clear-water swims and short hikes.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular sites often use timed tickets or sell out on Saturdays - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - January through March is prime, with the Rolex 24, Speedweeks and bike festivals drawing big crowds. Summer hosts concerts and additional race events.
- Weather - Warm to hot for much of the year. Summer afternoons often bring brief thunderstorms; pack a light rain layer, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On-site operations: Speedway tours, museum access and karting-style experiences may pause or switch to event-only schedules - check the week you attend.
- Beach safety: Heed tide times and lifeguard flags. Beach driving may close for high tide, wildlife or weather.
- Reservations: Book lighthouse climbs, museum time slots and family attractions in advance for Friday and Saturday evenings.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Daytona Beach, Florida, USA
Track Info
Daytona International Speedway - Daytona Beach, USA
Superspeedway tri-oval with an infield road course - clockwise - 31 degree high banks and the Rolex 24 at Daytona
When was the track built?
Bill France Sr. built Daytona as NASCAR's high-speed showpiece to replace the beach-road course era. Construction finished for early 1959 testing, and the venue immediately set new standards for speed and scale with its steeply banked, 2.5 mile tri-oval. The infield road course arrived for sports cars, eventually becoming the 3.56 mile layout used today for the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
The facility has evolved continually with SAFER barriers, repaves and lighting, but its defining geometry remains the 31 degree corner banking and vast grandstands flanking the tri-oval frontstretch.
When was its first race?
The speedway's first race headliner was the Daytona 500 on February 22, 1959, a landmark photo-finish classic won by Lee Petty. Endurance racing soon followed, with the 24-hour sports car event growing into the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
What's the circuit like?
- Tri-oval spectacle: 31 degree banks generate huge cornering loads and sustained pack speeds. The 18 degree tri-oval creates slingshot finishes at the line.
- Road course rhythm: The infield adds technical complexes and the fast Bus Stop chicane on the backstretch before cars rejoin the banking. Multi-class traffic is the Rolex 24 signature.
- Drafting and strategy: On the tri-oval, aerodynamics and lane discipline decide results. On the road course, stint length, traffic management and night running are key.
- Benchmark pace: NASCAR Cup race lap record 0:43.682 on the oval; DPi race lap 1:33.724 on the road course illustrates modern prototype speed.
- Banking and width: Corners banked at 31 degrees with a 40 ft racing surface, enabling sustained side-by-side running at superspeedway velocities.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- NASCAR Cup Series - tri-oval race lap: 0:43.682 - Erik Jones, 2020 Daytona 500.
- IMSA DPi - road course race lap: 1:33.724 - Álex Palou, 2022 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
- LMDh - road course race lap (recent): 1:35.554 - Tom Blomqvist, 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
- Closed-course speed record at Daytona: 222.917 mph - Colin Braun, Riley-Ford prototype, 2013 record run.
Why go?
A cathedral of American motorsport - from the season-opening Daytona 500 to the Rolex 24 endurance epic. The scale, the night running, the drafting packs and sunrise over the high banks make Daytona a bucket-list experience whether you love stock cars, prototypes or GTs.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Tri-oval grandstands: Start-finish, pack runs and photo-finish sprints with panoramic pit views.
- Turn 4 exit: See momentum builds off the banking into the tri-oval where races are decided.
- International Horseshoe (road course): Heavy braking and divebombs early in the lap during the Rolex 24.
- Bus Stop chicane: Prototype versus GT traffic fights at very high speed before the long pull onto NASCAR Turns 3 and 4.
- Night into sunrise: Any infield mound or grandstand facing the banking offers unforgettable night visuals and dawn stints during the Rolex 24.
Not just one race: Daytona's headline events
Daytona 500: The Great American Race opens the NASCAR Cup season with pack drafting and strategy fireworks.
Rolex 24 at Daytona: IMSA's season opener for GTP prototypes and GTD Pro/GT classes on the 3.56 mile road course.
Michelin Pilot Challenge, VP Racing SportsCar Challenge and MX-5 Cup: Support series fill out the Roar and Rolex 24 weeks with tight multi-class racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Daytona International Speedway - Daytona Beach, Florida
Best options are Votran city buses to International Speedway Blvd stops, rideshare or taxi to the official Lot 1 drop zone, walking from ONE DAYTONA via the pedestrian bridges, and pre-booked or event-designated parking. The venue operates internal trams and ADA carts on major events like the DAYTONA 500 and Rolex 24.
Public transport - Votran buses to the Speedway
- Routes serving the area: Votran lists 10, 11A, 11B, 18, 19, 60 for Daytona International Speedway. Use stops on International Speedway Blvd such as ISB & Nova, ISB & Midway, or ISB & Bill France.
- Race week detours: Routes are often adjusted around the venue on Speedweeks and Coke Zero Sugar 400 weekends. Check Votran alerts before travel.
- Tools: Live maps and schedules are on the Votran site and apps if you prefer real time info.
Rideshare and taxis
- Official drop off - pick up: The speedway’s designated rideshare zone is near Lot 1 using the frontage street by Cracker Barrel on International Speedway Blvd eastbound. Follow event signage on approach.
- After the checkered flag: Demand is heavy. Consider walking to ONE DAYTONA or a signed pick zone before requesting.
Driving and parking
- Event dependent: DIS notes free parking for many events, while premium or paid lots are offered for marquee races. Always use the Directions & Parking page for your specific event.
- Airport option on 500 Sunday: Daytona Beach International Airport occasionally offers paid race day parking for the DAYTONA 500. Check the airport notice for the current year.
- Follow the map: Facility maps highlight Ride Share zones, ADA parking, and Tram lines to help you choose the closest lot for your gate.
Walking routes and pedestrian bridges
- From ONE DAYTONA: Two pedestrian bridges connect ONE DAYTONA to the speedway side, positioned by Bass Pro Shops and near the Fairfield Inn & Suites. This is a convenient approach if you park or stay across the street.
- Inside the venue: Use the marked Tram routes and ADA cart stops shown on the event facility map if your seats are far from the gate.
Airports and long distance travel
- Daytona Beach International Airport DAB → Speedway: immediately adjacent on International Speedway Blvd. Taxis and rideshare are available from the terminal.
- Orlando area connection: If flying to MCO, plan 60 to 80 minutes by car to Daytona Beach in normal traffic, then follow DIS event directions. (Use DIS parking page for lot assignments.)
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Lot 1 and rideshare zone: closest to frontstretch gates and tram hubs on the speedway side.
- ONE DAYTONA parking: use the pedestrian bridges to reach ticketed gates on the frontstretch concourse.
- Votran bus stops on ISB: stops at ISB & Nova or ISB & Midway place you a short walk from perimeter entry depending on the event’s security footprint.
Always check your e-ticket and the Directions & Parking page for your event week. Race operations can change parking lot usage, detours, and shuttle or tram patterns.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Daytona International Speedway (Daytona Beach, Florida, USA)
Whether you are here for the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the Daytona 500 and Speedweeks, Supercross, MotoAmerica’s Daytona 200 or a club weekend, Daytona pairs on-site motorsport attractions with beaches, lighthouses, nature springs and easy day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Daytona International Speedway Tours: Guided tram tours of the tri-oval, victory lane and infield on non event days. Pair with the on-site Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
- ONE DAYTONA: Dining, cinema and family-friendly spaces directly across from the speedway - easy evenings after practice.
- Daytona Lagoon Waterpark: Seasonal slides, lazy river and an arcade - a cool-down option for kids.
- Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier: Ferris wheel, arcades and ocean views - great at sunset.
- Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum: Climb Florida’s tallest lighthouse for sweeping coastal views; small maritime museums at the base.
- Marine Science Center (Ponce Inlet): Sea turtle and seabird rehabilitation exhibits - short, engaging stop for families.
Waterparks and tour operations vary by season and event schedules - check the calendar for your exact dates.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- MOAS - Museum of Arts & Sciences: Planetarium, natural history and the Cici & Hyatt Brown collection of Florida art.
- Halifax Historical Museum: Local history inside a 1910s bank building - quick downtown stop.
- Daytona Bandshell shows: Seasonal beachfront concerts and movies - check listings for race week extras.
- Wilbur-by-the-Sea and Ormond Scenic Loop: Coastal drives with photo stops, easy to pair with cafés when showers roll through.
Eat and drink like a local
- Beachside seafood shacks: Fresh catches, shrimp baskets and fish tacos near the pier and along A1A.
- Riverfront and Sunset decks: Halifax River spots for oysters and sundowners after qualifying.
- Craft beer & BBQ: Breweries and smokehouses cluster around downtown and Beach Street - good for groups.
- Race week tip: Reserve Friday and Saturday dinners early during Speedweeks, Bike Week and summer concert nights.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Drive or bike on the beach: Designated sections of Daytona and New Smyrna allow beach driving at low tide; wide firm sand is also great for morning runs.
- Tomoka State Park & Ormond Scenic Loop: Short trails, kayak rentals and birding on calm inland waters.
- Blue Spring State Park (manatees in winter): Boardwalks over crystal water - manatee viewing peaks on cool days.
- De Leon Springs State Park: Swim spring runs and make-your-own griddle pancakes at the historic sugar mill restaurant.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- St. Augustine - About 1 hour. Castillo de San Marcos, walkable historic district and boat tours - perfect full day.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex - 1 to 1.5 hours. Space shuttle Atlantis, Saturn V and launch pads - check for launch attempts.
- New Smyrna Beach - 30 to 40 minutes. Surf town feel, galleries and Canaveral National Seashore access.
- Orlando add-ons - 1 to 1.5 hours. Theme parks, ICON Park wheel and dining - ambitious but doable between race days if you start early.
- Ocala National Forest - 1 to 1.5 hours. Springs like Juniper and Silver Glen for clear-water swims and short hikes.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular sites often use timed tickets or sell out on Saturdays - check live calendars when you book.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - January through March is prime, with the Rolex 24, Speedweeks and bike festivals drawing big crowds. Summer hosts concerts and additional race events.
- Weather - Warm to hot for much of the year. Summer afternoons often bring brief thunderstorms; pack a light rain layer, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On-site operations: Speedway tours, museum access and karting-style experiences may pause or switch to event-only schedules - check the week you attend.
- Beach safety: Heed tide times and lifeguard flags. Beach driving may close for high tide, wildlife or weather.
- Reservations: Book lighthouse climbs, museum time slots and family attractions in advance for Friday and Saturday evenings.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
