Iowa Speedway
Location:
Newton, Iowa, USA
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Iowa Speedway
|
Iowa
Nascar Cup
8 - 9 Aug
|
Track Info
Iowa Speedway - Newton, Iowa, USA
D-shaped short oval designed with Rusty Wallace - counterclockwise - 0.875 mi with progressive banking, wide lanes and non-stop night-race energy
First Race
15 Sep 2006
Track debut with Hooters Pro Cup’s Soy Biodiesel 250, won by Woody Howard.
Circuit Length
0.875 mi / 1.408 km (oval)
Progressive banking: Turns 12–14°, frontstretch 10°, backstretch 4°. IndyCar measures the oval at 0.894 mi for timing.
Turns
4 (oval) • 9 (1.300 mi infield road course)
Seven infield “roval” options exist; headline road course is 1.300 mi.
Lap Records
Oval race lap 0:17.4908 - Ryan Briscoe (IndyCar), 2008 • Qualifying lap 0:17.2283 - Hélio Castroneves (IndyCar), 2014 • Road course 0:41.624 - Michael Valiante (DP), 2007
IndyCar official track records on the oval; Grand-Am DP record on the road course.
Cup Series Debut
16 Jun 2024
Inaugural NASCAR Cup race (Iowa Corn 350) won by Ryan Blaney.
When was the track built?
Ground broke in 2005 and the speedway opened on 15 September 2006. Conceived as a fan-friendly short oval with multiple grooves and progressive banking, it includes a 1.300 mi infield road course and several “roval” variations. NASCAR purchased the facility in 2013, securing its long-term future.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race was the Hooters Pro Cup Soy Biodiesel 250 on 15 September 2006. IndyCar arrived in 2007, ARCA raced from the opening season, and the NASCAR Cup Series debuted in 2024 with Ryan Blaney taking the flag.
What's the circuit like?
- Progressive banking = lanes: 12–14° in the turns builds two to three good grooves. Expect slide-jobs into Turn 1 and momentum runs off Turn 4.
- Short-oval rhythm: Lap times in top open-wheel cars dip into the high 17s; restarts compress the pack and make tyre management critical on long greens.
- Night-show vibe: Hy-Vee’s IndyCar weekend pairs twin races with concerts, packing the grandstands and sharpening track evolution into the evening cool.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar qualifying 0:17.2283 and race-lap 0:17.4908 set the oval ceiling; the 1.300 mi road course carries a 0:41.624 DP mark.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar - fastest qualifying lap (oval): 0:17.2283 - Hélio Castroneves, 2014. Race lap: 0:17.4908 - Ryan Briscoe, 2008. Two-lap qualifying: 34.5588 - Scott Dixon, 2014.
- NASCAR Cup - inaugural winner: Ryan Blaney, Iowa Corn 350, 16 Jun 2024 (350 laps). Pole: Kyle Larson, 23.084 s.
- ARCA Menards Series: Regular since 2006 with winners including Ty Gibbs, Chandler Smith and Sheldon Creed.
- Road course outright (Grand-Am DP): 0:41.624 - Michael Valiante, Riley MkXI, 2007.
Why go?
It’s a short-oval masterclass. Progressive banking keeps the lanes alive for hours, restarts are electric, and the fan footprint is compact with great sightlines. The IndyCar doubleheader plus concerts is one of American open-wheel’s best weekends, and NASCAR’s return has added big-field stock-car drama.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Divebombs and crossovers as the field fans three-wide on restarts.
- Turn 3 entry: See momentum lines develop mid-corner and who commits to the top vs diamonding the bottom.
- Frontstretch near start/finish: Pit cycles, photo finishes and the sprint to the flag with the paddock in view.
Not just one series: events at Iowa
IndyCar Series: Annual short-oval showcase with official track records in the 17.2–17.5 s window.
NASCAR: Cup (since 2024) and Xfinity/Trucks history make Iowa a core stock-car stop in the Midwest.
ARCA & regional tours: Deep grids and rising stars have raced here since the opening season.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Iowa Speedway - Newton, Iowa
Best options are driving and using the free on-site general parking, pre-booked or designated lots for suites and clubs, and rideshare to the Uber Lyft drop zone. There is no dedicated public transit to the gates, so plan to drive or use a charter shuttle offered by tour operators on select race weekends.
Address
3333 Rusty Wallace Dr, Newton, IA 50208
Use this in your GPS for the main campus entrance and wayfinding.
Parking
Free general parking
Newton Club - Suite - VIP areas have signed lots - follow your pass.
Rideshare
Uber Lyft drop zone
Signed drop off on the facility map near the main midway.
ADA Access
Dedicated ADA parking
Paved ADA near Ticket Booth 1 with overflow grass parking - first come first parked.
Closest Airport
DSM - Des Moines Intl. ~35-50 mi
Primary commercial gateway west of Newton.
Driving - the easiest way
- From I-80: Take Exit 168 for Newton, then follow signs south on Iowa Speedway Dr. Staff will direct you to the correct parking area on arrival.
- Follow event signage: General parking is free and color signed. Suite - Newton Club - VIP passes route to their dedicated lots.
- Maps: Use the current facility map for lot labels, bus parking, motorcycle parking, ADA locations and the Uber Lyft zone.
Parking - what to expect
- Free general parking: Grandstand customers park in signed general lots at no charge. Arrive early for the shortest walk.
- Reserved - premium areas: Newton Club and Luxury Suite guests are directed to reserved lots shown on the map.
- Motorcycle - bus parking: Dedicated areas are shown on the facility map.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: Iowa Speedway - Uber Lyft Drop Off as shown on the facility map. From there it is a short, stewarded walk to ticket booths and gates.
- After the checkered flag: Consider waiting 10-20 minutes or walking toward the rideshare zone perimeter before requesting to avoid the first surge.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: Free accessible parking is available near Ticket Booth 1 with overflow grass ADA parking nearby. Valid placard - plate required and the pass holder must be in the vehicle.
- Support on event days: Text IOWAFAN to 627227 with your location and need for assistance, or call the Guest Services numbers listed on the ADA page.
Public transport and shuttles
- No direct public transit to the gates: Plan to drive or use rideshare. Third party tour operators sometimes sell round trip motorcoach packages from Des Moines hotels on race weekends.
Camping and staying close
- On-site camping: The speedway offers multiple camping areas including general campground outside Turn 1 and terrace camping. Check your event’s camping page for availability and maps.
Airports and long distance travel
- Des Moines International Airport DSM → Iowa Speedway: roughly 35-50 miles west by road depending on route. Taxis and rideshare are readily available at DSM.
- Newton Municipal Airport: immediately adjacent to the circuit for general aviation.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- General parking lots: shortest walks to Ticket Booths and the Midway - follow the General Parking arrows on the facility map.
- ADA parking near Ticket Booth 1: best for guests needing step free routes to the grandstands.
- Rideshare arrivals: use the signed Uber Lyft Drop Off and follow stewarded paths to your printed gate.
Always follow the lot and gate printed on your e-ticket and check the Parking & Transportation and Maps & Directions pages for any last minute changes to routes, lot openings and rideshare locations.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Iowa Speedway (Newton - Des Moines area, Iowa, USA)
Whether you are here for NASCAR Cup and Xfinity, the Hy-Vee INDYCAR Race Weekend or regional series, the 0.875 mile oval is set between small town charms and an easy to reach capital city with museums, parks and family attractions for non race days.
Motorsport at Iowa
NASCAR - INDYCAR - ARCA
Short oval with high nightly energy. INDYCAR often pairs the races with major concerts. Schedules vary by year.
Typical peak window
June - August
Warm afternoons and pleasant evenings. Pop up summer storms are possible.
Nearby hubs
Newton - Pella - Des Moines
Dutch heritage towns, lakes and a full set of city museums within 15 - 45 minutes.
Event impact
Concerts and traffic plans
Big weekends add live music and special egress routes. Local attractions can be busier Thursday - Sunday.
Family friendly highlights near the speedway
- Maytag Park - Newton: Shaded lawns, playgrounds and a historic pavilion for a low key morning before gates open.
- Valle Drive-In Theatre - Newton: One of Iowa’s classic drive-ins for a nostalgic movie night if showtimes align.
- Adventureland Resort - Altoona: Amusement rides and the Adventure Bay waterpark. A strong full or half day if you are traveling with kids.
- Blank Park Zoo - Des Moines: Compact, walkable zoo that fits nicely between morning practice and dinner.
- Science Center of Iowa - Des Moines: Hands on exhibits and IMAX style films for an easy rainy day plan.
- High Trestle Trail Bridge - Madrid: Iconic illuminated rail trail bridge for an evening stroll or bike ride if you add extra time.
Many venues use timed entry on summer weekends. Book earlier slots if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Pella Historic Village and Vermeer Mill: Working windmill, canal and Dutch heritage exhibits. Tulip Time festival each May.
- Iowa State Capitol - Des Moines: Guided tours of the gold dome and ornate chambers with skyline views.
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Outdoor contemporary art in downtown Des Moines that pairs well with a café stop in the East Village.
- Des Moines Art Center: Noted architecture and rotating collections in a serene setting.
- Reiman Gardens - Ames: Butterfly Wing and themed gardens near Iowa State University if you have an extra morning.
Eat and drink like a local
- Newton and Colfax: Small town grills, pizza and ice cream shops that work well for quick group meals.
- Pella: Dutch bakeries for pastries and bologna sandwiches, plus lake view patios at nearby Red Rock.
- Des Moines - East Village and Court Avenue: Breweries, patios and farm to table dinners for Friday or Saturday nights.
- Race week tip: Concert nights and headline races fill prime tables across Newton, Pella and Altoona. Reserve ahead for larger parties.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge - Prairie City: Tallgrass prairie drives, short trails and bison viewing from the car.
- Lake Red Rock and Elk Rock State Park: Short hikes, beach time and rental kayaks near Pella.
- Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park: Easy loop paths and fishing spots between Indianola and Des Moines.
- Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt: Boardwalks and birding on the Skunk River oxbows east of Ankeny.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Knoxville Raceway and National Sprint Car Hall of Fame - 30 to 40 minutes. Pair museum time with a Saturday night dirt show in season.
- Ames - 60 minutes. Reiman Gardens, ISU campus walks and café streets around Main Street.
- Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad - 75 to 90 minutes. Heritage train rides over the Des Moines River valley bridges.
- Madison County Covered Bridges - Winterset - 75 to 90 minutes. Photogenic bridge loop plus the John Wayne Birthplace Museum.
- Tulip country loop - 20 to 45 minutes. Pella bakeries and Red Rock overlooks, then a relaxed lake lunch.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular museums and parks may use timed entries or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Summer race weeks bring packed grandstands and concert nights. Hotels in Newton, Pella and Altoona fill quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Expect sun and humidity with a chance of late day thunderstorms. Evenings cool off nicely. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a light rain layer and comfortable shoes for concrete and gravel paths.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Fan midway, concert stages and souvenir areas expand on major weekends. Driving experiences and tours may pause or shift to special hours.
- Traffic patterns: Post race departures are staggered and can take time. Consider a late dinner in Newton or Altoona before heading out.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for kids, refillable water bottles, cooling towels and a small folding chair or blanket for grandstand breaks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change. Check official sites for the exact dates you attend.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Newton, Iowa, USA
Track Info
Iowa Speedway - Newton, Iowa, USA
D-shaped short oval designed with Rusty Wallace - counterclockwise - 0.875 mi with progressive banking, wide lanes and non-stop night-race energy
First Race
15 Sep 2006
Track debut with Hooters Pro Cup’s Soy Biodiesel 250, won by Woody Howard.
Circuit Length
0.875 mi / 1.408 km (oval)
Progressive banking: Turns 12–14°, frontstretch 10°, backstretch 4°. IndyCar measures the oval at 0.894 mi for timing.
Turns
4 (oval) • 9 (1.300 mi infield road course)
Seven infield “roval” options exist; headline road course is 1.300 mi.
Lap Records
Oval race lap 0:17.4908 - Ryan Briscoe (IndyCar), 2008 • Qualifying lap 0:17.2283 - Hélio Castroneves (IndyCar), 2014 • Road course 0:41.624 - Michael Valiante (DP), 2007
IndyCar official track records on the oval; Grand-Am DP record on the road course.
Cup Series Debut
16 Jun 2024
Inaugural NASCAR Cup race (Iowa Corn 350) won by Ryan Blaney.
When was the track built?
Ground broke in 2005 and the speedway opened on 15 September 2006. Conceived as a fan-friendly short oval with multiple grooves and progressive banking, it includes a 1.300 mi infield road course and several “roval” variations. NASCAR purchased the facility in 2013, securing its long-term future.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race was the Hooters Pro Cup Soy Biodiesel 250 on 15 September 2006. IndyCar arrived in 2007, ARCA raced from the opening season, and the NASCAR Cup Series debuted in 2024 with Ryan Blaney taking the flag.
What's the circuit like?
- Progressive banking = lanes: 12–14° in the turns builds two to three good grooves. Expect slide-jobs into Turn 1 and momentum runs off Turn 4.
- Short-oval rhythm: Lap times in top open-wheel cars dip into the high 17s; restarts compress the pack and make tyre management critical on long greens.
- Night-show vibe: Hy-Vee’s IndyCar weekend pairs twin races with concerts, packing the grandstands and sharpening track evolution into the evening cool.
- Benchmark pace: IndyCar qualifying 0:17.2283 and race-lap 0:17.4908 set the oval ceiling; the 1.300 mi road course carries a 0:41.624 DP mark.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- IndyCar - fastest qualifying lap (oval): 0:17.2283 - Hélio Castroneves, 2014. Race lap: 0:17.4908 - Ryan Briscoe, 2008. Two-lap qualifying: 34.5588 - Scott Dixon, 2014.
- NASCAR Cup - inaugural winner: Ryan Blaney, Iowa Corn 350, 16 Jun 2024 (350 laps). Pole: Kyle Larson, 23.084 s.
- ARCA Menards Series: Regular since 2006 with winners including Ty Gibbs, Chandler Smith and Sheldon Creed.
- Road course outright (Grand-Am DP): 0:41.624 - Michael Valiante, Riley MkXI, 2007.
Why go?
It’s a short-oval masterclass. Progressive banking keeps the lanes alive for hours, restarts are electric, and the fan footprint is compact with great sightlines. The IndyCar doubleheader plus concerts is one of American open-wheel’s best weekends, and NASCAR’s return has added big-field stock-car drama.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 grandstands: Divebombs and crossovers as the field fans three-wide on restarts.
- Turn 3 entry: See momentum lines develop mid-corner and who commits to the top vs diamonding the bottom.
- Frontstretch near start/finish: Pit cycles, photo finishes and the sprint to the flag with the paddock in view.
Not just one series: events at Iowa
IndyCar Series: Annual short-oval showcase with official track records in the 17.2–17.5 s window.
NASCAR: Cup (since 2024) and Xfinity/Trucks history make Iowa a core stock-car stop in the Midwest.
ARCA & regional tours: Deep grids and rising stars have raced here since the opening season.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Iowa Speedway - Newton, Iowa
Best options are driving and using the free on-site general parking, pre-booked or designated lots for suites and clubs, and rideshare to the Uber Lyft drop zone. There is no dedicated public transit to the gates, so plan to drive or use a charter shuttle offered by tour operators on select race weekends.
Address
3333 Rusty Wallace Dr, Newton, IA 50208
Use this in your GPS for the main campus entrance and wayfinding.
Parking
Free general parking
Newton Club - Suite - VIP areas have signed lots - follow your pass.
Rideshare
Uber Lyft drop zone
Signed drop off on the facility map near the main midway.
ADA Access
Dedicated ADA parking
Paved ADA near Ticket Booth 1 with overflow grass parking - first come first parked.
Closest Airport
DSM - Des Moines Intl. ~35-50 mi
Primary commercial gateway west of Newton.
Driving - the easiest way
- From I-80: Take Exit 168 for Newton, then follow signs south on Iowa Speedway Dr. Staff will direct you to the correct parking area on arrival.
- Follow event signage: General parking is free and color signed. Suite - Newton Club - VIP passes route to their dedicated lots.
- Maps: Use the current facility map for lot labels, bus parking, motorcycle parking, ADA locations and the Uber Lyft zone.
Parking - what to expect
- Free general parking: Grandstand customers park in signed general lots at no charge. Arrive early for the shortest walk.
- Reserved - premium areas: Newton Club and Luxury Suite guests are directed to reserved lots shown on the map.
- Motorcycle - bus parking: Dedicated areas are shown on the facility map.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: Iowa Speedway - Uber Lyft Drop Off as shown on the facility map. From there it is a short, stewarded walk to ticket booths and gates.
- After the checkered flag: Consider waiting 10-20 minutes or walking toward the rideshare zone perimeter before requesting to avoid the first surge.
Accessibility
- ADA parking: Free accessible parking is available near Ticket Booth 1 with overflow grass ADA parking nearby. Valid placard - plate required and the pass holder must be in the vehicle.
- Support on event days: Text IOWAFAN to 627227 with your location and need for assistance, or call the Guest Services numbers listed on the ADA page.
Public transport and shuttles
- No direct public transit to the gates: Plan to drive or use rideshare. Third party tour operators sometimes sell round trip motorcoach packages from Des Moines hotels on race weekends.
Camping and staying close
- On-site camping: The speedway offers multiple camping areas including general campground outside Turn 1 and terrace camping. Check your event’s camping page for availability and maps.
Airports and long distance travel
- Des Moines International Airport DSM → Iowa Speedway: roughly 35-50 miles west by road depending on route. Taxis and rideshare are readily available at DSM.
- Newton Municipal Airport: immediately adjacent to the circuit for general aviation.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- General parking lots: shortest walks to Ticket Booths and the Midway - follow the General Parking arrows on the facility map.
- ADA parking near Ticket Booth 1: best for guests needing step free routes to the grandstands.
- Rideshare arrivals: use the signed Uber Lyft Drop Off and follow stewarded paths to your printed gate.
Always follow the lot and gate printed on your e-ticket and check the Parking & Transportation and Maps & Directions pages for any last minute changes to routes, lot openings and rideshare locations.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Iowa Speedway (Newton - Des Moines area, Iowa, USA)
Whether you are here for NASCAR Cup and Xfinity, the Hy-Vee INDYCAR Race Weekend or regional series, the 0.875 mile oval is set between small town charms and an easy to reach capital city with museums, parks and family attractions for non race days.
Motorsport at Iowa
NASCAR - INDYCAR - ARCA
Short oval with high nightly energy. INDYCAR often pairs the races with major concerts. Schedules vary by year.
Typical peak window
June - August
Warm afternoons and pleasant evenings. Pop up summer storms are possible.
Nearby hubs
Newton - Pella - Des Moines
Dutch heritage towns, lakes and a full set of city museums within 15 - 45 minutes.
Event impact
Concerts and traffic plans
Big weekends add live music and special egress routes. Local attractions can be busier Thursday - Sunday.
Family friendly highlights near the speedway
- Maytag Park - Newton: Shaded lawns, playgrounds and a historic pavilion for a low key morning before gates open.
- Valle Drive-In Theatre - Newton: One of Iowa’s classic drive-ins for a nostalgic movie night if showtimes align.
- Adventureland Resort - Altoona: Amusement rides and the Adventure Bay waterpark. A strong full or half day if you are traveling with kids.
- Blank Park Zoo - Des Moines: Compact, walkable zoo that fits nicely between morning practice and dinner.
- Science Center of Iowa - Des Moines: Hands on exhibits and IMAX style films for an easy rainy day plan.
- High Trestle Trail Bridge - Madrid: Iconic illuminated rail trail bridge for an evening stroll or bike ride if you add extra time.
Many venues use timed entry on summer weekends. Book earlier slots if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Pella Historic Village and Vermeer Mill: Working windmill, canal and Dutch heritage exhibits. Tulip Time festival each May.
- Iowa State Capitol - Des Moines: Guided tours of the gold dome and ornate chambers with skyline views.
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Outdoor contemporary art in downtown Des Moines that pairs well with a café stop in the East Village.
- Des Moines Art Center: Noted architecture and rotating collections in a serene setting.
- Reiman Gardens - Ames: Butterfly Wing and themed gardens near Iowa State University if you have an extra morning.
Eat and drink like a local
- Newton and Colfax: Small town grills, pizza and ice cream shops that work well for quick group meals.
- Pella: Dutch bakeries for pastries and bologna sandwiches, plus lake view patios at nearby Red Rock.
- Des Moines - East Village and Court Avenue: Breweries, patios and farm to table dinners for Friday or Saturday nights.
- Race week tip: Concert nights and headline races fill prime tables across Newton, Pella and Altoona. Reserve ahead for larger parties.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge - Prairie City: Tallgrass prairie drives, short trails and bison viewing from the car.
- Lake Red Rock and Elk Rock State Park: Short hikes, beach time and rental kayaks near Pella.
- Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park: Easy loop paths and fishing spots between Indianola and Des Moines.
- Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt: Boardwalks and birding on the Skunk River oxbows east of Ankeny.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Knoxville Raceway and National Sprint Car Hall of Fame - 30 to 40 minutes. Pair museum time with a Saturday night dirt show in season.
- Ames - 60 minutes. Reiman Gardens, ISU campus walks and café streets around Main Street.
- Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad - 75 to 90 minutes. Heritage train rides over the Des Moines River valley bridges.
- Madison County Covered Bridges - Winterset - 75 to 90 minutes. Photogenic bridge loop plus the John Wayne Birthplace Museum.
- Tulip country loop - 20 to 45 minutes. Pella bakeries and Red Rock overlooks, then a relaxed lake lunch.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular museums and parks may use timed entries or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Summer race weeks bring packed grandstands and concert nights. Hotels in Newton, Pella and Altoona fill quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Expect sun and humidity with a chance of late day thunderstorms. Evenings cool off nicely. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a light rain layer and comfortable shoes for concrete and gravel paths.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Fan midway, concert stages and souvenir areas expand on major weekends. Driving experiences and tours may pause or shift to special hours.
- Traffic patterns: Post race departures are staggered and can take time. Consider a late dinner in Newton or Altoona before heading out.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for kids, refillable water bottles, cooling towels and a small folding chair or blanket for grandstand breaks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change. Check official sites for the exact dates you attend.
