Martinsville Speedway
Location:
Ridgeway, Virginia, USA, USA
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Martinsville Speedway
|
Martinsville 2
Nascar Cup
31 Oct - 1 Nov
|
Track Info
Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway/Martinsville, Virginia, USA
The Paperclip - clockwise - 0.526 mi / 0.847 km oval with 4 turns - asphalt straights, concrete corners - NASCAR’s oldest and shortest Cup track
First Race
Sep 7, 1947
Inaugural modified stock car event, predating NASCAR’s formation. Martinsville has hosted Cup every year since 1949.
Circuit Length
0.526 mi / 0.847 km
Two 800 ft straights and tight 588 ft corners - the classic paperclip.
Banking & Surface
Turns 12° - Straights 0° - Concrete corners since 1976
Asphalt straights with concrete in the turns define grip changes and tyre wear.
Lap Records
Cup race lap 0:18.845 - Ross Chastain, 2022
Official Cup race-lap mark from the famous wall-ride pass; Xfinity 0:20.216 (Hemric 2021) - Truck 0:19.911 (Riggs 2024).
Qualifying Benchmarks
100.201 mph - Joey Logano, 2014 (session record)
Knockout qualifying first-round record lap of 18.898 s set the modern speed bar.
When was the track built?
Conceived by H. Clay Earles and opened in 1947 as a dirt oval, Martinsville was paved in 1955 and later gained its signature concrete corners in 1976 to combat wear and tear. It remains the only track to appear on every NASCAR Cup schedule since the division began in 1949.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race ran on September 7, 1947 for modified stock cars. Cup arrived in 1949 and never left, making Martinsville a living timeline of NASCAR history.
What’s the circuit like?
- Paperclip rhythm: Hammer the brakes into nearly flat 180s, rotate on concrete, then rocket down long asphalt straights. It’s all about patience on entry and traction on exit.
- Traffic and temperament: Short laps mean constant lapped traffic. Track position, pit timing and restart craft decide everything.
- Physical racing: Bumpers are tools. Expect root-and-move passes into Turns 1 and 3, and elbows-out battles off 2 and 4.
- Benchmark pace: The Cup race-lap record is 18.845 s; qualifying sessions have topped 100 mph average in modern trim.
Lap records and benchmarks (oval 0.526 mi)
- NASCAR Cup - race lap: 0:18.845 - Ross Chastain, 2022 Xfinity 500 (wall-ride move - still the official fastest lap).
- NASCAR Xfinity - race lap: 0:20.216 - Daniel Hemric, 2021.
- NASCAR Craftsman Truck - race lap: 0:19.911 - Layne Riggs, 2024.
- Session qualifying note: 18.898 s (100.201 mph) - Joey Logano, 2014, a knockout-qualifying session record.
Average race speeds here are among the lowest in Cup (record ~82.223 mph), underscoring the short-lap, heavy-traffic grind.
Why go?
Because Martinsville turns race craft into theatre. Deep-brake divebombs, crossover exits and pit-road pressure are in constant rotation. It’s also one of the most fan-friendly venues on the schedule, with great sightlines and that famous trackside hot dog.
Where’s the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 braking zone: Classic bump-and-run territory as drivers send it under braking from the frontstretch.
- Turn 3 entry: Another prime dive zone that sets up the drag to the line off Turn 4.
- Frontstretch near start/finish: Pit stops, restarts and photo finishes right in front of you.
Not just one series - headline events at Martinsville
NASCAR Cup: Two annual dates including the playoff race - Martinsville trophies are career-defining.
NASCAR Xfinity & Trucks: Short-track fireworks with late cautions and green-white-checkers a regular feature.
Modifieds and support categories: The Whelen Modified Tour and late models showcase raw short-track pace on the paperclip.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway, Virginia
Best options are driving via US-220 Business or US-58 to Speedway Rd with free general parking on site, using designated post-race pick-up zones near the ticket gates for rideshare - taxi, and staying in the speedway campgrounds on NASCAR weekends. The speedway’s sat-nav address is 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148.
Address - sat nav
340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148
Officially listed across venue and tourism pages.
General parking
Free on speedway property
Confirmed in the Fan Guide and Policies.
Premium parking
Premier Parking • Lot 220
Reserved options sold for race weekends.
Rideshare
Post-race pick-up at ticket gates
Facility map notes pick-up only at ticket gates after the race.
Nearest airports
GSO • ROA
Greensboro GSO ~47 mi, Roanoke ROA ~55 mi from Martinsville.
Public transport - limited direct options
- No regular bus - rail to the gates: Plan to drive or use rideshare - taxi for the last leg. Rideshare service exists in the area but wait times can vary on race days.
- If you are staying in Greensboro or Roanoke, driving remains the most reliable connection to the speedway.
Driving - follow US-220 Business - US-58 to Speedway Rd and event signage
- Inbound routes: Use US-220 Business or US-58 toward Ridgeway and follow Speedway Rd to the signed lots. Download the latest Parking Map for gate - lot references.
- Traffic plan: Race day operations use color coded lots with temporary one way flows. Obey police - marshal direction on Speedway Rd and 47th St.
Parking - free GA fields plus reserved upgrades
- General Admission: Free parking on speedway property in stewarded grass fields. Arrive early on headline days.
- Premium options: Premier Parking on the paved tiers above the Fan Zone and Lot 220 beside Route 220 are sold as reserved passes.
- Maps: Use the current Parking Map PDF for lot labels, closures and walking routes.
Camping - multiple campgrounds around the bowl
- On site campgrounds: General Admission and named campground areas operate with standard rules on site sizes, grills and quiet hours. Amenities and dump stations are shown on the camping info - maps.
Rideshare - taxi - set downs
- Post-race pick-up: The facility map notes pick-up only at ticket gates post-race. Arrange your ride to meet there and allow extra time after the checkered flag.
- Set destination: Use 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway VA and follow on-site wayfinding to the nearest active gate.
Walking from lots - gates
- From free lots: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on your field and gate. The PDF map shows pedestrian paths and crossings.
Airports - easiest gateways
- Greensboro GSO → Martinsville: about 47 miles to the area by road.
- Roanoke ROA → Martinsville: about 55 miles by road. Both are common launch points for rental cars to the track.
About the venue - quick context
- 0.526 mile paperclip short track: Official maps page lists parking, facility and camping PDFs for gate numbers, fan zone and walking routes.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: follow US-220 Business or US-58 to Speedway Rd, then use the Parking Map to match your lot.
- Parking: on site free GA fields, plus Premier Parking and Lot 220 reserved options.
- Rideshare: plan for post-race pick-up at ticket gates per the facility map.
- Exact address: 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway - Martinsville - Southern Virginia (USA)
Whether you are here for NASCAR Cup - Xfinity - Trucks, late models, weekly shows or a track experience, this iconic 0.526 mile paperclip oval sits minutes from small town museums, lake parks and Blue Ridge scenery that are easy to enjoy on non race days.
Motorsport at Martinsville
NASCAR Cup - Xfinity - Craftsman Trucks - Late Models
Shortest track on the NASCAR Cup schedule at 0.526 miles. Asphalt front and back straightaways with concrete corners. Famous for close quarters racing and the signature Martinsville Hot Dog.
Typical peak windows
April - November
Spring race weekend and a late season fall race that often decides the playoff picture.
Nearby hubs
Martinsville - Danville - Greensboro - Roanoke
Lake parks and the Blue Ridge Parkway are straightforward day trips from the track area.
Event impact
Packed infield - camping vibe
US-220 and US-58 see surges Friday - Sunday. Local restaurants and parks get busier after the chequered flag.
Family friendly highlights near the speedway
- Virginia Museum of Natural History - Martinsville: Dinosaurs, geology and regional wildlife in a compact, hands on setting.
- Danville Science Center - Danville: Interactive galleries and a digital dome theater in restored rail buildings.
- Uptown Pinball - Martinsville: Dozens of playable pinball and arcade machines for a quick rainy day stop.
- Philpott Lake - Bowens Creek - Deering areas: Swim coves, picnic shelters and easy shoreline walks.
- Smith River sports complex - Martinsville: Open fields, short paths and playgrounds for younger kids to run between sessions.
- Goodyear Golf Club - or mini golf in town: Simple outdoor time fillers that pair well with lunch in Uptown.
Museums and lake beaches may use seasonal hours or timed entry on busy weekends. Morning visits help if you plan to be back for afternoon practice or qualifying.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center and Museum: Local history in a historic courthouse building.
- National D-Day Memorial - Bedford: Powerful outdoor - indoor complex about an hour north.
- Taubman Museum of Art - Roanoke: Striking architecture with family guides and rotating exhibits.
- Danville River District: Warehouses turned cafés, murals and small galleries along the Dan River.
- Blue Ridge Institute and Museum - Ferrum: Folk life collections that pair well with a scenic drive.
Eat and drink like a local
- Track classic: Do not miss a Martinsville Hot Dog with chili, slaw, onions and mustard during race week.
- Southern comfort plates: Barbecue pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese and hushpuppies at crowd pleasing smokehouses.
- Diners - bakeries: Uptown Martinsville and Collinsville for biscuits, pies and coffee before gates open.
- Breweries - patios: Casual taps and food trucks around Martinsville and Axton. Always designate a driver.
- Race week tip: Prime Friday - Saturday tables in Martinsville and Collinsville book quickly on Cup weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Fairy Stone State Park: Lakeside beach and short forest loops. Hunt for the cross shaped staurolite stones on signed trails.
- Blue Ridge Parkway - Rocky Knob area: Scenic overlooks and breezy leg stretch walks about an hour west.
- Hanging Rock State Park - NC: Waterfall and ridge trails 50 to 70 minutes south across the state line.
- Smith Mountain Lake: Boat rentals and shoreline parks if you add a warm afternoon.
- Anglers Ridge Trails - Danville: Well signed singletrack and green loops under the trees.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Roanoke - 55 to 85 minutes. Taubman Museum, Mill Mountain Star overlook and market district lunches.
- Greensboro - 60 to 90 minutes. Greensboro Science Center aquarium - zoo - museum combo and downtown greenway.
- Virginia International Raceway - 60 to 80 minutes. Check calendars for touring - sports car action or kart sessions on non conflicting days.
- Blue Ridge Parkway - 60 to 90 minutes. Mabry Mill photos, short creekside strolls and overlook picnics.
- Bedford - D-Day Memorial - 60 to 80 minutes. Combine with Peaks of Otter trails on the Parkway.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Parkway gates, lake rentals and museum entries may have last entry cutoffs or dated tickets.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring and late fall Cup weekends draw the biggest crowds. Camping fills Thursday - Sunday and local hotels sell out early.
- Weather - Four seasons. Spring is mild with showers, summer is warm and humid with afternoon storms, autumn brings crisp sunny race days, winter events can be chilly. Pack sunscreen, a hat, breathable layers and a light rain shell.
- Seasonal notes - Blue Ridge foliage in October - November is stunning and busy. Lake beaches are most active late May through August.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Driver intros, concerts and kids zones typically run on major weekends. Tours or experiences may pause or shift hours.
- Clear bag - cooler rules: Many oval events allow clear bags and small soft coolers within size limits. Always check the current event policy before packing.
- Movement - traffic: US-220 corridors back up after the finish. Consider an early dinner in Uptown Martinsville or a sunset stop at Philpott Lake to let traffic thin.
- Ground - footwear: Bleachers and banks can be slick with dew or a quick shower. Wear grippy shoes and bring a small cushion or stadium seat.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, light rain layer, insect repellent for lake evenings and a small picnic blanket for park breaks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, park - museum ticketing and event week operations can change - check official speedway and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Ridgeway, Virginia, USA, USA
Track Info
Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway/Martinsville, Virginia, USA
The Paperclip - clockwise - 0.526 mi / 0.847 km oval with 4 turns - asphalt straights, concrete corners - NASCAR’s oldest and shortest Cup track
First Race
Sep 7, 1947
Inaugural modified stock car event, predating NASCAR’s formation. Martinsville has hosted Cup every year since 1949.
Circuit Length
0.526 mi / 0.847 km
Two 800 ft straights and tight 588 ft corners - the classic paperclip.
Banking & Surface
Turns 12° - Straights 0° - Concrete corners since 1976
Asphalt straights with concrete in the turns define grip changes and tyre wear.
Lap Records
Cup race lap 0:18.845 - Ross Chastain, 2022
Official Cup race-lap mark from the famous wall-ride pass; Xfinity 0:20.216 (Hemric 2021) - Truck 0:19.911 (Riggs 2024).
Qualifying Benchmarks
100.201 mph - Joey Logano, 2014 (session record)
Knockout qualifying first-round record lap of 18.898 s set the modern speed bar.
When was the track built?
Conceived by H. Clay Earles and opened in 1947 as a dirt oval, Martinsville was paved in 1955 and later gained its signature concrete corners in 1976 to combat wear and tear. It remains the only track to appear on every NASCAR Cup schedule since the division began in 1949.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race ran on September 7, 1947 for modified stock cars. Cup arrived in 1949 and never left, making Martinsville a living timeline of NASCAR history.
What’s the circuit like?
- Paperclip rhythm: Hammer the brakes into nearly flat 180s, rotate on concrete, then rocket down long asphalt straights. It’s all about patience on entry and traction on exit.
- Traffic and temperament: Short laps mean constant lapped traffic. Track position, pit timing and restart craft decide everything.
- Physical racing: Bumpers are tools. Expect root-and-move passes into Turns 1 and 3, and elbows-out battles off 2 and 4.
- Benchmark pace: The Cup race-lap record is 18.845 s; qualifying sessions have topped 100 mph average in modern trim.
Lap records and benchmarks (oval 0.526 mi)
- NASCAR Cup - race lap: 0:18.845 - Ross Chastain, 2022 Xfinity 500 (wall-ride move - still the official fastest lap).
- NASCAR Xfinity - race lap: 0:20.216 - Daniel Hemric, 2021.
- NASCAR Craftsman Truck - race lap: 0:19.911 - Layne Riggs, 2024.
- Session qualifying note: 18.898 s (100.201 mph) - Joey Logano, 2014, a knockout-qualifying session record.
Average race speeds here are among the lowest in Cup (record ~82.223 mph), underscoring the short-lap, heavy-traffic grind.
Why go?
Because Martinsville turns race craft into theatre. Deep-brake divebombs, crossover exits and pit-road pressure are in constant rotation. It’s also one of the most fan-friendly venues on the schedule, with great sightlines and that famous trackside hot dog.
Where’s the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 braking zone: Classic bump-and-run territory as drivers send it under braking from the frontstretch.
- Turn 3 entry: Another prime dive zone that sets up the drag to the line off Turn 4.
- Frontstretch near start/finish: Pit stops, restarts and photo finishes right in front of you.
Not just one series - headline events at Martinsville
NASCAR Cup: Two annual dates including the playoff race - Martinsville trophies are career-defining.
NASCAR Xfinity & Trucks: Short-track fireworks with late cautions and green-white-checkers a regular feature.
Modifieds and support categories: The Whelen Modified Tour and late models showcase raw short-track pace on the paperclip.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway, Virginia
Best options are driving via US-220 Business or US-58 to Speedway Rd with free general parking on site, using designated post-race pick-up zones near the ticket gates for rideshare - taxi, and staying in the speedway campgrounds on NASCAR weekends. The speedway’s sat-nav address is 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148.
Address - sat nav
340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148
Officially listed across venue and tourism pages.
General parking
Free on speedway property
Confirmed in the Fan Guide and Policies.
Premium parking
Premier Parking • Lot 220
Reserved options sold for race weekends.
Rideshare
Post-race pick-up at ticket gates
Facility map notes pick-up only at ticket gates after the race.
Nearest airports
GSO • ROA
Greensboro GSO ~47 mi, Roanoke ROA ~55 mi from Martinsville.
Public transport - limited direct options
- No regular bus - rail to the gates: Plan to drive or use rideshare - taxi for the last leg. Rideshare service exists in the area but wait times can vary on race days.
- If you are staying in Greensboro or Roanoke, driving remains the most reliable connection to the speedway.
Driving - follow US-220 Business - US-58 to Speedway Rd and event signage
- Inbound routes: Use US-220 Business or US-58 toward Ridgeway and follow Speedway Rd to the signed lots. Download the latest Parking Map for gate - lot references.
- Traffic plan: Race day operations use color coded lots with temporary one way flows. Obey police - marshal direction on Speedway Rd and 47th St.
Parking - free GA fields plus reserved upgrades
- General Admission: Free parking on speedway property in stewarded grass fields. Arrive early on headline days.
- Premium options: Premier Parking on the paved tiers above the Fan Zone and Lot 220 beside Route 220 are sold as reserved passes.
- Maps: Use the current Parking Map PDF for lot labels, closures and walking routes.
Camping - multiple campgrounds around the bowl
- On site campgrounds: General Admission and named campground areas operate with standard rules on site sizes, grills and quiet hours. Amenities and dump stations are shown on the camping info - maps.
Rideshare - taxi - set downs
- Post-race pick-up: The facility map notes pick-up only at ticket gates post-race. Arrange your ride to meet there and allow extra time after the checkered flag.
- Set destination: Use 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway VA and follow on-site wayfinding to the nearest active gate.
Walking from lots - gates
- From free lots: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on your field and gate. The PDF map shows pedestrian paths and crossings.
Airports - easiest gateways
- Greensboro GSO → Martinsville: about 47 miles to the area by road.
- Roanoke ROA → Martinsville: about 55 miles by road. Both are common launch points for rental cars to the track.
About the venue - quick context
- 0.526 mile paperclip short track: Official maps page lists parking, facility and camping PDFs for gate numbers, fan zone and walking routes.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: follow US-220 Business or US-58 to Speedway Rd, then use the Parking Map to match your lot.
- Parking: on site free GA fields, plus Premier Parking and Lot 220 reserved options.
- Rideshare: plan for post-race pick-up at ticket gates per the facility map.
- Exact address: 340 Speedway Rd, Ridgeway, VA 24148.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Martinsville Speedway - Ridgeway - Martinsville - Southern Virginia (USA)
Whether you are here for NASCAR Cup - Xfinity - Trucks, late models, weekly shows or a track experience, this iconic 0.526 mile paperclip oval sits minutes from small town museums, lake parks and Blue Ridge scenery that are easy to enjoy on non race days.
Motorsport at Martinsville
NASCAR Cup - Xfinity - Craftsman Trucks - Late Models
Shortest track on the NASCAR Cup schedule at 0.526 miles. Asphalt front and back straightaways with concrete corners. Famous for close quarters racing and the signature Martinsville Hot Dog.
Typical peak windows
April - November
Spring race weekend and a late season fall race that often decides the playoff picture.
Nearby hubs
Martinsville - Danville - Greensboro - Roanoke
Lake parks and the Blue Ridge Parkway are straightforward day trips from the track area.
Event impact
Packed infield - camping vibe
US-220 and US-58 see surges Friday - Sunday. Local restaurants and parks get busier after the chequered flag.
Family friendly highlights near the speedway
- Virginia Museum of Natural History - Martinsville: Dinosaurs, geology and regional wildlife in a compact, hands on setting.
- Danville Science Center - Danville: Interactive galleries and a digital dome theater in restored rail buildings.
- Uptown Pinball - Martinsville: Dozens of playable pinball and arcade machines for a quick rainy day stop.
- Philpott Lake - Bowens Creek - Deering areas: Swim coves, picnic shelters and easy shoreline walks.
- Smith River sports complex - Martinsville: Open fields, short paths and playgrounds for younger kids to run between sessions.
- Goodyear Golf Club - or mini golf in town: Simple outdoor time fillers that pair well with lunch in Uptown.
Museums and lake beaches may use seasonal hours or timed entry on busy weekends. Morning visits help if you plan to be back for afternoon practice or qualifying.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center and Museum: Local history in a historic courthouse building.
- National D-Day Memorial - Bedford: Powerful outdoor - indoor complex about an hour north.
- Taubman Museum of Art - Roanoke: Striking architecture with family guides and rotating exhibits.
- Danville River District: Warehouses turned cafés, murals and small galleries along the Dan River.
- Blue Ridge Institute and Museum - Ferrum: Folk life collections that pair well with a scenic drive.
Eat and drink like a local
- Track classic: Do not miss a Martinsville Hot Dog with chili, slaw, onions and mustard during race week.
- Southern comfort plates: Barbecue pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese and hushpuppies at crowd pleasing smokehouses.
- Diners - bakeries: Uptown Martinsville and Collinsville for biscuits, pies and coffee before gates open.
- Breweries - patios: Casual taps and food trucks around Martinsville and Axton. Always designate a driver.
- Race week tip: Prime Friday - Saturday tables in Martinsville and Collinsville book quickly on Cup weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Fairy Stone State Park: Lakeside beach and short forest loops. Hunt for the cross shaped staurolite stones on signed trails.
- Blue Ridge Parkway - Rocky Knob area: Scenic overlooks and breezy leg stretch walks about an hour west.
- Hanging Rock State Park - NC: Waterfall and ridge trails 50 to 70 minutes south across the state line.
- Smith Mountain Lake: Boat rentals and shoreline parks if you add a warm afternoon.
- Anglers Ridge Trails - Danville: Well signed singletrack and green loops under the trees.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Roanoke - 55 to 85 minutes. Taubman Museum, Mill Mountain Star overlook and market district lunches.
- Greensboro - 60 to 90 minutes. Greensboro Science Center aquarium - zoo - museum combo and downtown greenway.
- Virginia International Raceway - 60 to 80 minutes. Check calendars for touring - sports car action or kart sessions on non conflicting days.
- Blue Ridge Parkway - 60 to 90 minutes. Mabry Mill photos, short creekside strolls and overlook picnics.
- Bedford - D-Day Memorial - 60 to 80 minutes. Combine with Peaks of Otter trails on the Parkway.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Parkway gates, lake rentals and museum entries may have last entry cutoffs or dated tickets.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring and late fall Cup weekends draw the biggest crowds. Camping fills Thursday - Sunday and local hotels sell out early.
- Weather - Four seasons. Spring is mild with showers, summer is warm and humid with afternoon storms, autumn brings crisp sunny race days, winter events can be chilly. Pack sunscreen, a hat, breathable layers and a light rain shell.
- Seasonal notes - Blue Ridge foliage in October - November is stunning and busy. Lake beaches are most active late May through August.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Driver intros, concerts and kids zones typically run on major weekends. Tours or experiences may pause or shift hours.
- Clear bag - cooler rules: Many oval events allow clear bags and small soft coolers within size limits. Always check the current event policy before packing.
- Movement - traffic: US-220 corridors back up after the finish. Consider an early dinner in Uptown Martinsville or a sunset stop at Philpott Lake to let traffic thin.
- Ground - footwear: Bleachers and banks can be slick with dew or a quick shower. Wear grippy shoes and bring a small cushion or stadium seat.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, light rain layer, insect repellent for lake evenings and a small picnic blanket for park breaks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, park - museum ticketing and event week operations can change - check official speedway and attraction sites for your exact dates.
