Daytona International Speedway

Address:1801 West International Speedway
Daytona Beach, Florida

Home to the "Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing," Daytona International Speedway, a 2.5 mile oval in Daytona Beach, Florida, attracts racing fans of all different vehicles for several weeks throughout the year. Tens of thousands of fans descend on the track in RVs and other vehicles to have a great time, and see some great races.

The marquee race at Daytona is "The Great American Race," NASCAR's Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500. Held the third Sunday in February, the 200 laps around the track make up stock car racing's premier event and, at worst, the second-most important race in American auto sports. The festivities start with the Budweiser Shootout, a 175-mile, two-part, invitation-only race the Saturday night a week before the 500. Then, after a week of qualifying and other side races such as the truck series and minor stock-car series (also known as the Busch Series), the big event occurs. Making it more unique is that these races mark the start of these circuits' seasons. Other events held at Daytona International Speedway include the Nextel Cup and Busch Series races on July 4th weekend, which kick off the second half of the NASCAR season. The track also hosts motorcycle races in March, and bicycle races in January.

Since opening in 1959, Daytona International Speedway has seen a number of memorable races and moments. Unfortunately, the one that sticks in most fans minds, in recent years, is the death of racing legend Dale Earnhardt, who crashed into the wall just before the finish line in 2001.

In addition to the races and tailgating, there is also a site called the Daytona 500 Experience where fans can see exhibits on much of the track's history, and learn all about the drivers who have raced there. There is also an IMAX theater, as well as the actual winning car from the previous Daytona 500.

The atmosphere of the track makes driving there almost a mustn't miss experience, but the track's Web site does offer travel packages for hotels and tickets for those who prefer a more sedate experience. There are also group and veterans' rates available.