Daytona International Speedway is a 2.5-mile oval track in Daytona Beach, Florida, home to NASCAR's most famous races

Daytona International Speedway hosts two marquee NASCAR events each year: the Daytona 500 in February and the Coke Zero Sugar 400 in August. The track opened in 1959 and seats roughly 101,000 people. It is the largest motorsports venue in the world by seating capacity. The facility also hosts other racing series including IndyCar, IMSA sports cars, and motorcycle racing.

The track's 31-degree banking in the turns and 18-degree banking on the straights create the high speeds the venue is known for. The Daytona 500 is considered the most prestigious NASCAR race in the United States, often called the "Super Bowl of motorsports." Tickets, parking, and lodging sell out months in advance for major events, particularly the 500.

Key Takeaways

  • The Daytona 500 in February and Coke Zero Sugar 400 in August are the two main NASCAR events, with the 500 being the most attended and expensive to watch.
  • Ticket prices vary widely depending on the race, seating location, and how far in advance you purchase, ranging from under $100 to several thousand dollars for premium seats.
  • The speedway also hosts IndyCar, IMSA, and motorcycle racing events throughout the year at lower ticket prices than NASCAR races.
  • Parking and lodging in the Daytona Beach area fill up quickly for major races, so planning several months ahead is necessary for the best rates and availability.
  • The speedway offers track tours on non-race days that let you walk the infield, see the garage area, and visit the museum without purchasing race tickets.

Ticket prices and where to buy them

Daytona International Speedway sells tickets directly through its website and box office. Prices depend on which race you attend, your seat location, and how far in advance you buy. General admission seats for the Daytona 500 typically start around $150 to $300 and can exceed $1,000 for premium locations near the finish line. The Coke Zero Sugar 400 in August is usually less expensive, with general admission starting around $75 to $150.

Secondary ticket markets like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Ticketmaster's resale platform also sell Daytona tickets. Prices on these sites fluctuate based on demand and can be higher or lower than face value depending on how close the race date is. Buying directly from the speedway's official site often gives you the lowest may provide price, but secondary markets sometimes have better deals on less desirable seats or dates closer to the event.

The speedway occasionally runs promotions for military personnel, students, and groups. Check the official Daytona International Speedway website for current discounts before purchasing elsewhere. Many races also offer "turn 4" or "infield" general admission at lower prices, though these seats have obstructed views or require standing.

What to expect on race day

Race day at Daytona is a full-day event. Gates typically open 6 to 8 hours before the race starts, and most fans arrive early to tailgate, explore the infield, and find their seats. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat — the Florida sun is intense and there is limited shade in most seating areas. Coolers with food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, though glass containers and outside alcohol are not.

Parking lots fill up quickly, and traffic leaving the speedway after the race can take 2 to 4 hours. Many fans stay in the parking lot for several hours after the race ends to let traffic clear. If you are driving, plan to arrive at least 3 to 4 hours before race time and budget extra time to leave. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate at the speedway but surge pricing is common on race days.

The infield is open to general admission ticket holders and offers a unique view of the track, though you will see less of the race than from the grandstands. Infield tickets are cheaper but come with fewer amenities and longer bathroom lines. Bring a portable chair or blanket if you have an infield seat.

Non-race events and tours

Daytona International Speedway hosts events beyond NASCAR races. IndyCar's Firestone Grand Prix of Daytona typically runs in late January, and IMSA sports car racing events occur throughout the year. Motorcycle racing, including MotoGP-style events, also takes place at the track. These events are generally less expensive than NASCAR races and draw smaller crowds.

The speedway offers guided track tours on non-race days that cost between $25 and $35 per person. Tours last about 30 minutes and include access to the infield, garage area, and pit road. You can also visit the Daytona International Speedway Museum, which displays historic race cars, memorabilia, and information about the track's history. Museum admission is separate from track tours.

The speedway occasionally hosts driving experiences where you can ride in a pace car or, for a premium price, drive your own car on the track. These experiences book months in advance and cost several hundred dollars. Contact the speedway directly for current availability and pricing.

Lodging and parking near the speedway

Daytona Beach has hotels ranging from budget chains to upscale resorts. For major races like the Daytona 500, rooms book up 6 to 12 months in advance and prices can double or triple compared to non-race weekends. Hotels within walking distance of the speedway are rare; most are 2 to 5 miles away in downtown Daytona Beach or along the beach.

Parking at the speedway itself costs $20 to $40 depending on the lot and event. Premium parking closer to the entrance costs more. If you stay at a hotel, ask whether they offer shuttle service to the speedway — many do, though shuttles can be crowded on race day. Ride-sharing is an option but expect surge pricing and long wait times after the race ends.

Vacation rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO have properties throughout the Daytona area. These can be cheaper than hotels for groups or multi-day stays, but availability is limited during major races. Book as early as possible if you plan to attend the Daytona 500 or other high-profile events.

Getting to Daytona International Speedway

Daytona International Speedway is located at 1801 W International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, Florida. The nearest major airport is Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), about 15 miles away. Orlando International Airport (MCO), roughly 85 miles away, has more flight options and sometimes cheaper fares, though you will need to rent a car or use a ride-sharing service for the longer drive.

If you are driving, I-95 runs north-south near Daytona, and US-92 connects to the speedway. GPS directions to the speedway are reliable, but traffic on race day is heavy. Plan to arrive several hours early and expect congestion on local roads leading to the facility.

Public transportation to the speedway is limited. The Votran bus system serves Daytona Beach but does not have direct service to the speedway. Ride-sharing services are the most practical public transit option if you do not have a car, though costs add up quickly for a full day.

What to bring and what is not permitted

Permitted items include sunscreen, hats, blankets, portable chairs, binoculars, cameras, and coolers with food and non-alcoholic drinks. Soft-sided coolers are preferred over hard coolers. Clear bags are sometimes required for entry — check the speedway's website before race day.

Not permitted: glass containers, outside alcohol, weapons of any kind, drones, professional video equipment, and pets (except service animals). Bags larger than a certain size may be restricted. Rules vary by event, so review the speedway's official bag policy before you go.

Wear comfortable shoes — you will be walking a lot. The track is outdoors with minimal shade, so light-colored, breathable clothing is practical. Bring more water than you think you will need; concession prices are high and lines are long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Daytona 500 tickets cost?

Daytona 500 tickets range from roughly $150 for general admission in less desirable locations to $1,000 or more for premium seats near the finish line. Prices vary by year and how far in advance you purchase. Secondary markets sometimes have different pricing than the official speedway site.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the race?

Yes, you can bring a cooler with food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass containers and outside alcohol are not permitted. Coolers are subject to size restrictions, so check the speedway's bag policy before you go.

What is the best way to avoid traffic after the race?

Stay in the parking lot for 2 to 4 hours after the race ends while traffic clears. Many fans tailgate or rest in their cars during this time. If you use ride-sharing, expect surge pricing and long wait times when ready after the race.

Are there cheaper races at Daytona besides the 500?

Yes. The Coke Zero Sugar 400 in August is less expensive than the 500. IndyCar, IMSA, and motorcycle racing events throughout the year also have lower ticket prices and smaller crowds than NASCAR's marquee races.

Can I visit the speedway without buying race tickets?

Yes. The speedway offers guided track tours on non-race days for $25 to $35 per person. You can also visit the Daytona International Speedway Museum. These options let you see the facility without attending a race.