In Bristol, Tennessee, groups can go on a behind-the-scenes track tour of “The Last Great Colosseum.” Bristol Motor Speedway, a NASCAR short track venue and the third-largest sports venue in America, is known for its very short track and extremely steep banking.
Although the 0.533-mile oval is short in length, the track at Bristol Motor Speedway is one of the most popular with its two pit roads, all-concrete surface and stadium-like seating, earning it its nickname of “The Last Great Colosseum.”
Track tours of the speedway are available daily, except during major speedway and dragway events. Tours begin from Speedway World Gift Shop, located on the first floor of the O. Bruton Smith Building.
On the guided tours, groups can climb the famous high banks of Bristol’s track and even sign it; experience the excitement of Victory Lane; and explore Thunder Valley, the speedway’s drag strip.
The drag strip is famously nicknamed “Thunder Valley” for its location between two mountains, causing thundering acoustics when cars race down the strip.
Every year, the speedway hosts NASCAR events in April and August. The speedway also is home to one of the most famous races in all of NASCAR — the Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race. Held every year, the night race is a highly anticipated event for fans all around the country.
Aside from NASCAR, the speedway hosts a variety of events including monster truck races, concerts and car shows.
Group ticket pricing for events is available for 20 or more people, and reservations are required for track tours of seven or more group members.
For more information, call 423-989-6906 or visit bristolmotorspeedway.com.