Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol

Bristol Motor Speedway, often referred to as "The Last Great Colosseum," is a beacon for NASCAR enthusiasts and a must-see for any tourist visiting Bristol, Tennessee. This iconic stadium is best known for its short-track racing and is one of the most famous venues in the motorsports world. With a seating capacity of approximately 162,000, it is one of the largest sports venues in America, offering an electrifying atmosphere that is second to none.

Constructed in 1960, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts two major NASCAR race weekends annually, featuring the NASCAR Cup Series, among other events. The track itself is steeped in history and is distinctive for its steep banking, concrete surface, and stadium-like appearance. The venue also has the unique feature of being one of the loudest in NASCAR due to its acoustics and the close proximity of fans to the action.

The track measures 0.533 miles in length, with turns banked at an imposing 24 to 28 degrees, which provides for intense and competitive racing. The speedway underwent significant renovations in 2007, including the addition of the Speedway In Lights during the holiday season, turning the venue into a festive spectacle.

For those looking to experience the full throttle of NASCAR racing, Bristol Motor Speedway offers a range of ticket options and packages, including the opportunity to experience the race from luxury suites. For an immersive experience, fans can also take advantage of the Speedway's camping facilities, allowing them to stay close to the action throughout race weekends.

Visitors to Bristol Motor Speedway can also enjoy the Bristol Dragway, known as "Thunder Valley," which hosts drag racing events, adding to the motorsports allure of the site.