Short answer: Michigan International Speedway (MIS) is a 2-mile, moderate-banked D-shaped speedway located in Brooklyn, Michigan. The track hosts NASCAR Cup Series races twice a year and has seating capacity for over 72K spectators.
How Michigan International Speedway Became a Mecca for NASCAR Fans
NASCAR fans will agree that Michigan International Speedway is one of the most exciting tracks to watch races. The famous 2-mile track, located in Brooklyn, Michigan has been a mecca for NASCAR fans from around the country since its inauguration in 1968. Its iconic layout with variable banking and speedy straightaways offers drivers an exhilarating challenge as they navigate through hairpin turns.
But what makes Michigan International Speedway such an incredible destination for NASCAR enthusiasts? Let’s take a closer look at how this speedway cemented its status as one of America’s ultimate racing venues:
History
The history of Michigan International Speedway dates back to the late sixties when Larry LoPatin – a Detroit businessman who wanted to build his own racing facility- decided he needed a larger venue than just half-mile track Metropolitan Race Course then owned by him. At the time, there was no proper-size speedway yet built in Michigan or nearby states where patriotic Americana could celebrate cars and race events. Construction began on May 13th, 1967 after clearing rocks and dirt from an old sand pit site measuring about 1,400 acres.
Michigan International Speedway hosted its first event on October 13th of that year -an SCCA Endurance Championship car race– marking the start of a new era in American motor sports. Two years later (in June), MIS became part of stock-car lore when Hank Williams Jr.* sang “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” during pre-race festivities (“rowdy friends” included Richard Petty)* before Bobby Unser won not only the track’s inaugural IndyCar race but also set several records during it.
International Racing Destination
For starters: Location! Located directly between three top U.S automotive hubs -Detroit (about an hour away), Chicago(about two hours away) ,and Indianapolis(two-and-a-half hours away)-,MIS boasts accessibility to tens-of-thousands easily who wish to see car racing in its various forms. Although it remains a stop for one of only two NASCAR Cup Series events held annually in Michigan (the FireKeepers Casino 400), the Speedway has also played host to other top-level race series including IndyCar, ARCA and Truck Series.
Spectator Experience
Michigan International Speedway hosts some of the biggest crowds seen at any NASCAR Winston Cup race track in North America due not just solely on proximity but also because MIS always provides incredible weekend packages that impress visitors time after time. The excitement is palatable long before you reach the grandstands through ongoing shows, contests, hot laps around the speedway, activities geared towards families and museums/exhibitions at display featuring indispensable historical artifacts from Michigan’s rich automobile history.
Fan Amenities
MIS knows how important convenience and comfort are to fans; thusly have implemented several VIP services aimed directly at satisfying their desires- over-sized parking spaces near turnstiles as well as shuttles running regularly between designated lots/gates installed modern facilities(i.e restrooms, concessions etc.)
A Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Michigan International Speedway for Race Day
If you’re a fan of high-speed car races, then Michigan International Speedway should definitely be on your bucket list of tracks to visit! Located in Brooklyn, Michigan, this iconic racing venue is known for hosting some of the most thrilling NASCAR and INDYCAR events each season.
Before heading out to catch all the action live and up close, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure that you have an unforgettable race day at Michigan International Speedway!
Step 1: Plan Ahead
First things first, make sure you plan ahead. You don’t want to get there only to realize that tickets are sold-out or that parking spots are already full. Check online for information about upcoming races at Michigan International Speedway and book your tickets early. Also, remember to check the weather forecast so you can prepare accordingly with comfortable clothing and gear.
Step 2: Pack Smart
Pack everything you need for a day outdoors watching fast cars- sunscreen lotion/spray/wipes (you won’t regret it), earplugs (those engines can be really loud), hats/caps (to protect yourself from sunstroke). Lastly water bottles because hydration is key!
Step 3: Arrive Early
Arriving early means getting prime spots both outside and inside as well avoiding long waiting period for entering into the racetrack area through security checks or parked cars leaving after the conclusion of races or activities throughout race weekend.
Step 4: Locate Your Seats
Once inside the grandstand area look out for signages leading towards directing towards row seats block sections where purchased reserved seats will be highlighted with various reference names like letters A,B,C etc & numbered position placed over adjoining steps elevating upwards indicative along aisle pathways within their respective stands/sections supported by ushers who could also provide any further clearance queries/update details regarding teams/race start times too if required directly by event officials.
Step 5: Explore Vendor Area
Exploring vendor area provides multi-variety of food, beverages, and souvenirs options while mingling with other race fans. It’s a must-stop as you stroll around outside vendor booths that sell all sorts of motorsport merchandise for more commemorative gifts easy to carry back home.
Step 6: Enjoy the Races
Finally, it’s time to sit back & enjoy the races! Expecting high-speed lap records which could be achieved this year? Which driver/jockey will emerge victorious ahead in their car/vehicle model statistics after flags drop at starting point till finish line across several rounds spanning roughly two hours or so long!
Lastly seating comfort should not dissuade fans if want move around sections during breaks- easy open seats grants access albeit nearby ones are either empty spaces marked “reserved” would indicate already occupied up until the conclusion of each race event. The experience is entirely yours to enjoy but being courteous and respectful towards fellow patrons’ needs can make race day much better!
In summary following these simple steps gives you an unforgettable experience during your Michigan International Speedway visit; planning ahead saves stress later
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Attending an Event at Michigan International Speedway
If you’re planning on attending an event at Michigan International Speedway, you probably have a lot of questions about what to expect. Whether it’s your first time at the track or you’re a seasoned fan, there are always things to learn and ways to get the most out of your experience.
To help answer some common questions and concerns, we’ve put together this FAQ guide that covers everything from tickets and parking to camping and concessions. So let’s dive in!
Q: What events do they host at Michigan International Speedway?
A: Michigan International Speedway hosts several NASCAR races each year including a Cup Series event in August as well as Xfinity Series races.
Q: How can I purchase tickets for an event at MIS?
A: You can go directly to their website www.mispeedway.com or call 888-905-RACE (7223).
Q: Where should I park when attending an event?
A: Parking is ample but they will also offer additional paid premium parking which includes closer access into the speedway if walking further distances is not of interest.
Q: Can I camp overnight while attending an event?
A: There are different options for camping depending on how much space desired. They even have RV spots available during race weekends!
Q: Am I allowed to bring food/beverages into the venue?
A : Outside food items cannot be brought inside but there are various delicious eateries featuring “Derby Dogs” hot dog stations all around the facility offering plenty of dining choices
Q :What else can i explore aside watching car racing ?
A : Before heading back home with memories after enjoying watching car racing , fans ‘behind-the-scenes’ tours get them up close with inspections garages where cars are worked on.
Hopefully, these FAQs provided some helpful information while answering any lingering questions! Now gear up and get ready for exciting action-packed unforgettable days at America’s favorite speedy spot —Michigan Simplex Track!