If the Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart is going to be your first time experiencing a NASCAR race, here are a few things to know to get the most out of the experience.
Tickets
Get your tickets as early as you can. Many people have season tickets and the best seats can go fast. You can either purchase your ticket online at or call 877-9-AMS-TIX and speak directly to a representative who can help you find the best tickets for your group’s needs. If you want to go to the ticket office in person, you can just mosey over to the gift shop located right next door to purchase your Atlanta Motor Speedway swag or that of your favorite driver.
Discounted tickets are available for college students, military personnel, and children under the age of 12 with the purchase of an adult ticket. These tickets can be purchased the same way as grandstand tickets.
The NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series qualifying event, Focused Health 250, occurs Friday night. You can attend either just the qualifying event, the main event on Saturday, or purchase a weekend pass to attend both.
When ordering tickets keep in mind that the closer to the track the louder and the more immersive the experience. Ear plugs and other types of ear protection is recommended, especially for children.
Upgrades
Reserve a Racing Electronic scanner and hear uncensored audio between the drivers and their crew. Each scanner rental comes with one RE race scanner, headsets (choose one or two), batteries, and a clear carrying tote. You may need to keep this list of key NASCAR terms handy while you listen.
Purchase a Pre-Race Track Pass to give you access before the gates are open to the general public. With this pass, you can step on the actual racing surface, sign the start/finish line (be sure to bring a Sharpie), see victory lane, and get stage-front access for driver introductions before the green flag waves!
A one-of-a-kind experience for the serious NASCAR fan, Ultimate Weekend Fan Pass returns for the Quaker State 400. It is the best way to experience exclusive, behind-the-scenes access and includes a NASCAR Garage & Pit Road Pass for your use all weekend. Enjoy a guided tour of the NASCAR Cup Series garage on race day and take home a keepsake, insulated 30 oz. Rambler YETI tumbler with the Atlanta Motor Speedway logo!
Parking
Parking is free in the numerous grass lots. You enter and exit the same way, so be sure to look at the maps before deciding where to park. Reserved, premium parking just feet from the entry gates is available to purchase online.
See & Do
A NASCAR race, especially one at Atlanta Motor Speedway is so much more than just the race itself. Race weekend is truly a full weekend full of fun, entertainment, and, of course, motor sports.
The Fan Zone opens on Friday and is free! There is live entertainment, concerts, driver interviews, samples, giveaways, souvenir trailers, and even a kids area. At the Gathering Place, guests can enjoy bocce ball, corn hole, a fire pit and a dog park for the four-legged family members. Check out the line up of entertainment here.
On Friday night, the party begins at the Infield Peach Pit where you can enjoy you favorite beverages, live music by Tim Dugger, cornhole, dueling mechanical bulls, fireworks and more!
The full schedule of events can be found here.
Get on the Track
If driving your car or speeding around on the famed Atlanta Motor Speedway track is on your bucket list, there are ways to make the dream a reality.
If you are set on driving your own vehicle, purchase Laps for Charity from Speedway Children’s Charities. This charitable donation will allow you three laps around the track.
Also, a Track Walk occurs on Saturday before the drivers take the track. Walk a lap around the iconic Atlanta Motor Speedway with your family and friends to help Georgia children who are in need.
Food and Drinks
One of the truly unique and wonderful things about NASCAR is the ability to bring in your own cooler. As long as it is a soft-sided cooler smaller than 14″x14″x14″ with no glass inside, you are free to bring in your own beverages and snacks. Guests are also allowed to bring up to two bags (but only one cooler), as long as they do not exceed 18″x18″x14″.
While you will certainly find the traditional burgers and hotdogs at the concession stands, you can also find other delicious options from the various food vendors set up in the concourse.
Adults seeking adult beverages and a great spot to watch the race should check out Bootleggers. The bar offers covered seating, fans, access to charging stations, TVs showing the race and even easy rail side viewing of the race. Access to this area is included with all grandstand tickets.
Keep in mind that all concessions within the facility are cashless.
Camping & Accommodations
Atlanta Motor Speedway campgrounds can accommodate motorhomes, RVs, and tents within various campgrounds on property. They offer bath houses with tankless water heaters, so there is no fear of not having all the hot water you could want. For guests wanting to camp with their family, Atlanta Motor Speedway offers a family campground with set quiet hours.
For guests seeking hotel accommodations, Henry County has more than 30 hotels and even a bed and breakfast.
NASCAR Rules
Those new to NASCAR may have questions on the rules. In order to get the most out of your experience and to better understand the action -check out this link to NASCAR rules overview.
Atlanta Motor Speedway has an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions on their site for any other questions on how to make your experience an enjoyable one.
What to do in Henry County
Need something to do while waiting for the green flag? Check out Henry County’s extraordinary attractions, shopping options, food choices, and family-friendly activities or get a free copy of your visitors guide today!