Road America
Location:
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Road America
|
XPEL Grand Prix at Road America
IndyCar
19 - 21 Jun
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Petit Le Mans
International Motor Sports Association
1 - 3 Oct
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Track Info
Road America - Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA
Permanently built road course in the Kettle Moraine - clockwise - 4.048 miles of fast sweeps, huge elevation and classic corners
First Race
1955
First SCCA national weekend ran September 10-11, 1955. Phil Hill won in a Ferrari Monza.
Circuit Length
6.515 km
4.048 miles - virtually unchanged since opening.
Turns
14
Landmarks include Turn 1, Moraine Sweep, Turn 5, Hurry Downs, Carousel, the Kink and Canada Corner.
Lap Record (Race)
1:41.874 - Alex Zanardi (CART), 1998
Overall race lap on the Grand Prix course - open wheel era benchmark.
Elevation Drop
~49 m
About 160 ft from start/finish down to the Kink straight.
When was the track built?
Conceived by highway engineer Clif Tufte to move racing off Elkhart Lake’s public roads, Road America was laid out through glacial hills and ravines in early 1955 and opened that September. The 4.048 mile, 14 turn course has stayed remarkably faithful to its original plan, earning a reputation as one of the world’s great natural terrain road circuits.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race weekend was September 10-11, 1955. Phil Hill took a headline win in a Ferrari Monza as Road America immediately joined America’s premier venues.
What's the circuit like?
- High speed flow: Long full throttle sections link big stops at Turn 5 and Canada Corner. The Carousel and the Kink demand commitment and car stability.
- Elevation everywhere: Cresting entries and downhill braking zones change references lap to lap. The run from Turn 14 up the front straight is a draft battle in many series.
- Old school risk: The Kink is one of North America’s most daunting corners. Precision and traffic management are vital in multi class racing.
- Strategy: Fuel mileage and caution timing often decide IndyCar and sports car races on this long lap, where pit entry and exit deltas are significant.
- Benchmark pace: Overall race lap 1:41.874. Qualifying track record 1:39.866 by Dario Franchitti (CART) remains a reference for outright speed.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- CART/Champ Car (race lap): 1:41.874 - Alex Zanardi, 1998 Texaco Havoline 200.
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:42.8921 - Will Power, 2023 Sonsio Grand Prix at Road America.
- Qualifying record (overall): 1:39.866 - Dario Franchitti, 2000 Motorola 220.
- LMP1 (race lap): 1:48.723 - Marco Werner, Audi R10 TDI, 2008 ALMS Road America 500.
- LMDh GTP (race lap): 1:49.676 - Filipe Albuquerque, Acura ARX 06, 2023 IMSA SportsCar Weekend.
- IMSA GTP era (race lap): 1:48.944 - Juan Manuel Fangio II, Eagle MkIII, 1992.
- DPi (race lap): 1:51.034 - Dane Cameron, Acura ARX 05, 2020.
Why go?
A bucket list American road course with hillside viewing, forest backdrops and constant action. The sound carries through the pines, the paddock is open and the long lap produces strategy twists and photo finishes up the hill to the line.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 5: Heaviest braking on the lap, wheel to wheel passes and big crowds on the hillside.
- Hurry Downs to Turn 8: Rhythm and mistakes compound here, great for photography.
- Carousel and the Kink: See aero balance and bravery. Multi class traffic is intense.
- Canada Corner (T12): Classic out braking zone after a long run, with switchbacks on exit.
- Turn 14 and the front straight: Watch launches up the hill, pit work and the sprint to the flag.
Not just IndyCar and IMSA: Road America's calendar
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: GTP prototypes and GTD roar through the forest each summer.
IndyCar: Modern open wheel classic with long green stints and fuel mileage gambles.
NASCAR Xfinity and regional stock cars: Drafting down the straights and heavy braking into Turn 5 create great road course shows.
Motorcycle and club racing: MotoAmerica, vintage festivals and packed SCCA/track day calendars keep the circuit busy all season.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Road America - Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Best options are driving and using the on-site free general parking, buying Preferred Parking near the VIP Tower for shorter walks, and using the free facility shuttles that circulate during most public events. Gates are reached from WI-67 at the Main Gate with additional spectator gates around the 640-acre property.
Address
N7390 State Hwy 67, Plymouth, WI 53073
Main Gate on WI-67 with multiple spectator gates inside the property.
General Parking
Free with event admission
Park in marked grass areas that are not campsites or restricted zones.
Preferred Parking
Near VIP Tower - paid
Shorter walk to paddock - limited quantity per public event.
Shuttles
Free facility shuttles
Operate most public events, typically 8:00 to 16:00, with storage for non-motorized wheelchairs.
Accessibility
ADA parking by VIP Tower
Accessible parking and restrooms available; spaces first come first served.
Airports
ATW ~45 min • GRB ~1 hr • MKE ~1 hr
Appleton, Green Bay and Milwaukee are the usual gateways.
Driving and parking
- Free general parking: Included with your admission - look for signed grass lots across the property. Spectator parking is not permitted in paddock or reserved VIP areas.
- Preferred Parking: Purchase in advance for the lot by the VIP Tower for the most direct paddock access.
- Porsche Park (Porsche owners): Complimentary Porsche-only parking north of Gate 3 between Start/Finish and Turn 1 - regular race tickets still required.
- Driving inside the grounds: For most events, spectator vehicles may circulate on internal roads unless an area is posted or closed for safety. Follow steward directions.
Free shuttles - easiest way once parked
- Facility shuttles: Complimentary shuttles loop key zones and help cut walking time between grandstands, paddock and concessions. Hours vary by event; typical daytime operation is 8:00-16:00.
- Maps: Pick up a current fan map or use the online map for gates, shuttle icons, restrooms and pedestrian bridges including the Turn 14 tunnel area.
Walking from lots and shuttle stops
- From general parking: Expect 5-20 minute walks depending on where you park and your chosen viewing area; use posted pedestrian bridges and tunnels where indicated on the map.
- Wayfinding: Event staff will guide you to the closest path to your ticketed stand or favorite corner.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Use the Main Gate address on WI-67, then follow staff to the nearest spectator lot for drop-off and pickup outside restricted zones.
Airports and long distance travel
- Appleton ATW → Road America: roughly 45 minutes by car in normal traffic.
- Green Bay GRB → Road America: about 55-60 minutes by car.
- Milwaukee MKE → Road America: about 60-80 minutes depending on route and traffic.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Main Gate - WI-67: primary entry for most spectators - follow signage to general or Preferred Parking.
- Gate 3 area: near the Start/Finish stretch and Porsche Park; good for paddock-side access when open.
Always follow the gate printed on your ticket and the current fan map for any event-specific routing, shuttle stops and restricted areas.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Road America (Elkhart Lake - Wisconsin, USA)
Whether you are here for IndyCar, IMSA, MotoAmerica, NASCAR Xfinity or a classic vintage weekend, Road America sits amid kettle moraine hills, forest trails and lake towns - perfect for family fun, outdoor time and relaxed small city culture on non race days.
Motorsport at Road America
IndyCar - IMSA - Xfinity - MotoAmerica
A packed season on the 4.048 mile road course plus karting and off road areas on select dates. Lineups vary each year.
Typical peak window
May - September
Warm days and cool evenings. Summer thunderstorms can pass quickly.
Nearby hubs
Elkhart Lake - Plymouth - Sheboygan - Kohler
Milwaukee and Green Bay are each about 60 - 75 minutes for bigger museum and sports days.
Event impact
On site operations change
Karting, zip line and tours may pause or use special hours during headline weekends.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Road America activities on non race days: Arrive and drive karting, off road UTV rides, a small zip line and cycling - running evenings on select dates.
- Fireman's Park - Elkhart Lake beach: Lifeguarded lake swimming in season with a sandy shallow area for kids.
- Bookworm Gardens - Sheboygan: Storybook themed botanical gardens designed for children - a delightful 1 - 2 hour wander.
- Above and Beyond Children's Museum - Sheboygan: Hands on exhibits and play spaces for younger families.
- Blue Harbor Resort - Breaker Bay: Indoor waterpark on the Sheboygan lakefront - easy half day weather backup.
- Wade House Historic Site - Greenbush: Stagecoach inn, blacksmith shop and seasonal carriage rides that pair well with a morning hike nearby.
Many family venues run seasonal or timed entry. Beaches may require local day passes and operate weather dependent hours.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- John Michael Kohler Arts Center - Sheboygan: Contemporary art with artist built environments and family friendly programs.
- Kohler Design Center - Village of Kohler: Architectural galleries and design exhibits in a compact, free museum.
- EAA Aviation Museum - Oshkosh: Historic aircraft, warbirds and kid focused galleries - allow 2 - 3 hours.
- Harley-Davidson Museum - Milwaukee: Motorcycling culture and machines in riverfront galleries - pairs with Milwaukee Public Market.
Eat and drink like a local
- Elkhart Lake village: Supper club classics, lakeside patios and Friday fish fry traditions. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Kohler and Sheboygan: From casual bratwurst and cheese curds to upscale hotel dining at The American Club - a good celebratory option.
- Breweries and taprooms: Sheboygan and Plymouth have easygoing spots for post session tastings. Many offer kid friendly menus.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday reservations fill fast across the area - plan dinners early for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit: Glacial hills, boardwalk bogs and lookout towers. Short signed loops suit all ages.
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail segments: Family friendly sections near Dundee and Parnell Towers for big views with modest climbs.
- Kohler-Andrae State Park - Lake Michigan dunes: Wooden boardwalks, wide beaches and a photogenic shoreline 30 - 35 minutes from the track.
- Old Plank Road Trail: Paved multi use path that parallels Highway 23 for easy bike miles between Sheboygan and Plymouth.
- Kayak or paddle: Calm Elkhart Lake mornings or gentle stretches of the Sheboygan River for short outings.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Milwaukee - 60 to 75 minutes. Harley-Davidson Museum, Public Museum, lakefront walks and the Public Market for lunch.
- Green Bay - About 1 hour. Lambeau Field tours, Packers Hall of Fame and Titletown district green space.
- Door County - 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Lighthouses, state parks and cherry stands - best as a long day or overnight.
- Horicon Marsh - 1 to 1.25 hours. One of the Midwest's birding hotspots with boardwalks and visitor center exhibits.
- Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run - 25 to 40 minutes. Bucket list golf with Lake Michigan vistas or riverside fairways. Book tee times well in advance.
- Kohler Waters Spa - 25 minutes. Hydrotherapy circuits and treatments for a relaxed off day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular museums, spas and golf use timed bookings - check availability before you set off.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through summer packs the biggest events and fan zones. Lodging in Elkhart Lake, Plymouth and Kohler books up early from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Midwest summer can swing from blue sky to a quick shower. Mornings are cool on the lake, afternoons warm. Pack layers, sunscreen and a light rain shell.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, zip line and track fitness nights run on select dates and may pause on major weekends. Check the week’s calendar if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Viewing style: Road America is famous for grassy hillsides and natural amphitheaters. Bring a blanket or small folding chair and comfortable walking shoes.
- Camp and comfort: Evenings can feel cool. Pack layers, bug spray for dusk and ear protection for children.
- Reservations: Lakeside restaurants, spa slots and golf tee times sell out on big race weeks - book early.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA
Track Info
Road America - Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA
Permanently built road course in the Kettle Moraine - clockwise - 4.048 miles of fast sweeps, huge elevation and classic corners
First Race
1955
First SCCA national weekend ran September 10-11, 1955. Phil Hill won in a Ferrari Monza.
Circuit Length
6.515 km
4.048 miles - virtually unchanged since opening.
Turns
14
Landmarks include Turn 1, Moraine Sweep, Turn 5, Hurry Downs, Carousel, the Kink and Canada Corner.
Lap Record (Race)
1:41.874 - Alex Zanardi (CART), 1998
Overall race lap on the Grand Prix course - open wheel era benchmark.
Elevation Drop
~49 m
About 160 ft from start/finish down to the Kink straight.
When was the track built?
Conceived by highway engineer Clif Tufte to move racing off Elkhart Lake’s public roads, Road America was laid out through glacial hills and ravines in early 1955 and opened that September. The 4.048 mile, 14 turn course has stayed remarkably faithful to its original plan, earning a reputation as one of the world’s great natural terrain road circuits.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race weekend was September 10-11, 1955. Phil Hill took a headline win in a Ferrari Monza as Road America immediately joined America’s premier venues.
What's the circuit like?
- High speed flow: Long full throttle sections link big stops at Turn 5 and Canada Corner. The Carousel and the Kink demand commitment and car stability.
- Elevation everywhere: Cresting entries and downhill braking zones change references lap to lap. The run from Turn 14 up the front straight is a draft battle in many series.
- Old school risk: The Kink is one of North America’s most daunting corners. Precision and traffic management are vital in multi class racing.
- Strategy: Fuel mileage and caution timing often decide IndyCar and sports car races on this long lap, where pit entry and exit deltas are significant.
- Benchmark pace: Overall race lap 1:41.874. Qualifying track record 1:39.866 by Dario Franchitti (CART) remains a reference for outright speed.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- CART/Champ Car (race lap): 1:41.874 - Alex Zanardi, 1998 Texaco Havoline 200.
- IndyCar (race lap): 1:42.8921 - Will Power, 2023 Sonsio Grand Prix at Road America.
- Qualifying record (overall): 1:39.866 - Dario Franchitti, 2000 Motorola 220.
- LMP1 (race lap): 1:48.723 - Marco Werner, Audi R10 TDI, 2008 ALMS Road America 500.
- LMDh GTP (race lap): 1:49.676 - Filipe Albuquerque, Acura ARX 06, 2023 IMSA SportsCar Weekend.
- IMSA GTP era (race lap): 1:48.944 - Juan Manuel Fangio II, Eagle MkIII, 1992.
- DPi (race lap): 1:51.034 - Dane Cameron, Acura ARX 05, 2020.
Why go?
A bucket list American road course with hillside viewing, forest backdrops and constant action. The sound carries through the pines, the paddock is open and the long lap produces strategy twists and photo finishes up the hill to the line.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 5: Heaviest braking on the lap, wheel to wheel passes and big crowds on the hillside.
- Hurry Downs to Turn 8: Rhythm and mistakes compound here, great for photography.
- Carousel and the Kink: See aero balance and bravery. Multi class traffic is intense.
- Canada Corner (T12): Classic out braking zone after a long run, with switchbacks on exit.
- Turn 14 and the front straight: Watch launches up the hill, pit work and the sprint to the flag.
Not just IndyCar and IMSA: Road America's calendar
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: GTP prototypes and GTD roar through the forest each summer.
IndyCar: Modern open wheel classic with long green stints and fuel mileage gambles.
NASCAR Xfinity and regional stock cars: Drafting down the straights and heavy braking into Turn 5 create great road course shows.
Motorcycle and club racing: MotoAmerica, vintage festivals and packed SCCA/track day calendars keep the circuit busy all season.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Road America - Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Best options are driving and using the on-site free general parking, buying Preferred Parking near the VIP Tower for shorter walks, and using the free facility shuttles that circulate during most public events. Gates are reached from WI-67 at the Main Gate with additional spectator gates around the 640-acre property.
Address
N7390 State Hwy 67, Plymouth, WI 53073
Main Gate on WI-67 with multiple spectator gates inside the property.
General Parking
Free with event admission
Park in marked grass areas that are not campsites or restricted zones.
Preferred Parking
Near VIP Tower - paid
Shorter walk to paddock - limited quantity per public event.
Shuttles
Free facility shuttles
Operate most public events, typically 8:00 to 16:00, with storage for non-motorized wheelchairs.
Accessibility
ADA parking by VIP Tower
Accessible parking and restrooms available; spaces first come first served.
Airports
ATW ~45 min • GRB ~1 hr • MKE ~1 hr
Appleton, Green Bay and Milwaukee are the usual gateways.
Driving and parking
- Free general parking: Included with your admission - look for signed grass lots across the property. Spectator parking is not permitted in paddock or reserved VIP areas.
- Preferred Parking: Purchase in advance for the lot by the VIP Tower for the most direct paddock access.
- Porsche Park (Porsche owners): Complimentary Porsche-only parking north of Gate 3 between Start/Finish and Turn 1 - regular race tickets still required.
- Driving inside the grounds: For most events, spectator vehicles may circulate on internal roads unless an area is posted or closed for safety. Follow steward directions.
Free shuttles - easiest way once parked
- Facility shuttles: Complimentary shuttles loop key zones and help cut walking time between grandstands, paddock and concessions. Hours vary by event; typical daytime operation is 8:00-16:00.
- Maps: Pick up a current fan map or use the online map for gates, shuttle icons, restrooms and pedestrian bridges including the Turn 14 tunnel area.
Walking from lots and shuttle stops
- From general parking: Expect 5-20 minute walks depending on where you park and your chosen viewing area; use posted pedestrian bridges and tunnels where indicated on the map.
- Wayfinding: Event staff will guide you to the closest path to your ticketed stand or favorite corner.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Use the Main Gate address on WI-67, then follow staff to the nearest spectator lot for drop-off and pickup outside restricted zones.
Airports and long distance travel
- Appleton ATW → Road America: roughly 45 minutes by car in normal traffic.
- Green Bay GRB → Road America: about 55-60 minutes by car.
- Milwaukee MKE → Road America: about 60-80 minutes depending on route and traffic.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Main Gate - WI-67: primary entry for most spectators - follow signage to general or Preferred Parking.
- Gate 3 area: near the Start/Finish stretch and Porsche Park; good for paddock-side access when open.
Always follow the gate printed on your ticket and the current fan map for any event-specific routing, shuttle stops and restricted areas.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Road America (Elkhart Lake - Wisconsin, USA)
Whether you are here for IndyCar, IMSA, MotoAmerica, NASCAR Xfinity or a classic vintage weekend, Road America sits amid kettle moraine hills, forest trails and lake towns - perfect for family fun, outdoor time and relaxed small city culture on non race days.
Motorsport at Road America
IndyCar - IMSA - Xfinity - MotoAmerica
A packed season on the 4.048 mile road course plus karting and off road areas on select dates. Lineups vary each year.
Typical peak window
May - September
Warm days and cool evenings. Summer thunderstorms can pass quickly.
Nearby hubs
Elkhart Lake - Plymouth - Sheboygan - Kohler
Milwaukee and Green Bay are each about 60 - 75 minutes for bigger museum and sports days.
Event impact
On site operations change
Karting, zip line and tours may pause or use special hours during headline weekends.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Road America activities on non race days: Arrive and drive karting, off road UTV rides, a small zip line and cycling - running evenings on select dates.
- Fireman's Park - Elkhart Lake beach: Lifeguarded lake swimming in season with a sandy shallow area for kids.
- Bookworm Gardens - Sheboygan: Storybook themed botanical gardens designed for children - a delightful 1 - 2 hour wander.
- Above and Beyond Children's Museum - Sheboygan: Hands on exhibits and play spaces for younger families.
- Blue Harbor Resort - Breaker Bay: Indoor waterpark on the Sheboygan lakefront - easy half day weather backup.
- Wade House Historic Site - Greenbush: Stagecoach inn, blacksmith shop and seasonal carriage rides that pair well with a morning hike nearby.
Many family venues run seasonal or timed entry. Beaches may require local day passes and operate weather dependent hours.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- John Michael Kohler Arts Center - Sheboygan: Contemporary art with artist built environments and family friendly programs.
- Kohler Design Center - Village of Kohler: Architectural galleries and design exhibits in a compact, free museum.
- EAA Aviation Museum - Oshkosh: Historic aircraft, warbirds and kid focused galleries - allow 2 - 3 hours.
- Harley-Davidson Museum - Milwaukee: Motorcycling culture and machines in riverfront galleries - pairs with Milwaukee Public Market.
Eat and drink like a local
- Elkhart Lake village: Supper club classics, lakeside patios and Friday fish fry traditions. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Kohler and Sheboygan: From casual bratwurst and cheese curds to upscale hotel dining at The American Club - a good celebratory option.
- Breweries and taprooms: Sheboygan and Plymouth have easygoing spots for post session tastings. Many offer kid friendly menus.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday reservations fill fast across the area - plan dinners early for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit: Glacial hills, boardwalk bogs and lookout towers. Short signed loops suit all ages.
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail segments: Family friendly sections near Dundee and Parnell Towers for big views with modest climbs.
- Kohler-Andrae State Park - Lake Michigan dunes: Wooden boardwalks, wide beaches and a photogenic shoreline 30 - 35 minutes from the track.
- Old Plank Road Trail: Paved multi use path that parallels Highway 23 for easy bike miles between Sheboygan and Plymouth.
- Kayak or paddle: Calm Elkhart Lake mornings or gentle stretches of the Sheboygan River for short outings.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Milwaukee - 60 to 75 minutes. Harley-Davidson Museum, Public Museum, lakefront walks and the Public Market for lunch.
- Green Bay - About 1 hour. Lambeau Field tours, Packers Hall of Fame and Titletown district green space.
- Door County - 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Lighthouses, state parks and cherry stands - best as a long day or overnight.
- Horicon Marsh - 1 to 1.25 hours. One of the Midwest's birding hotspots with boardwalks and visitor center exhibits.
- Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run - 25 to 40 minutes. Bucket list golf with Lake Michigan vistas or riverside fairways. Book tee times well in advance.
- Kohler Waters Spa - 25 minutes. Hydrotherapy circuits and treatments for a relaxed off day.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular museums, spas and golf use timed bookings - check availability before you set off.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through summer packs the biggest events and fan zones. Lodging in Elkhart Lake, Plymouth and Kohler books up early from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Midwest summer can swing from blue sky to a quick shower. Mornings are cool on the lake, afternoons warm. Pack layers, sunscreen and a light rain shell.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Karting, zip line and track fitness nights run on select dates and may pause on major weekends. Check the week’s calendar if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Viewing style: Road America is famous for grassy hillsides and natural amphitheaters. Bring a blanket or small folding chair and comfortable walking shoes.
- Camp and comfort: Evenings can feel cool. Pack layers, bug spray for dusk and ear protection for children.
- Reservations: Lakeside restaurants, spa slots and golf tee times sell out on big race weeks - book early.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
