Florida’s Notable Tracks and Local Circuits: Discover Unique Motorsports Venues
Florida is home to several high-profile tracks, but beyond the likes of Daytona and Sebring, the state boasts a rich network of local circuits and notable tracks. These venues foster a grassroots motorsport community, providing opportunities for amateur racers, karting enthusiasts, and fans to experience the thrill of racing up close. From historic short tracks to go-karting hotspots, these notable tracks and local circuits add to Florida’s vibrant motorsports culture. This guide introduces some of the state’s lesser-known venues and the unique events they offer.
1. New Smyrna Speedway: The High-Banked Short Track
Located near Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Speedway is one of Florida’s premier short tracks, known for its steep banking and fast-paced action. With a 0.5-mile asphalt oval, this track hosts weekly racing series, special events, and the popular World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing, which draws drivers from across the country.
New Smyrna Speedway Highlights:
World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing: Held annually, this multi-day event attracts top drivers and is a must-see for short-track fans.
Local Racing Series: New Smyrna hosts divisions like Super Late Models, Pro Late Models, and Modifieds, creating competitive weekly racing that draws a loyal fan base.
Fan-Friendly Atmosphere: With affordable ticket prices and a welcoming atmosphere, New Smyrna is a favorite among families and local motorsports fans.
2. Auburndale Speedway: A Family-Friendly Short Track
Auburndale Speedway, located in Winter Haven, is a 1/4-mile asphalt oval known for its family-friendly events and community vibe. This short track offers exciting weekly racing that includes classes like Mini Stocks, Super Stocks, and Open Wheel Modifieds. Auburndale’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great choice for fans looking for affordable, close-to-the-action racing.
Auburndale Speedway Highlights:
Weekly Racing Series: Auburndale’s local series showcases a range of vehicles, from Legends cars to Street Stocks, providing variety for fans.
Affordable and Accessible: With budget-friendly admission prices and a strong community focus, Auburndale is a favorite for families and locals.
Special Events: The track also hosts special races throughout the season, bringing in larger crowds and competitive lineups.
3. Five Flags Speedway: Home of the Snowball Derby
Located in Pensacola, Five Flags Speedway is one of Florida’s most famous short tracks, primarily due to the Snowball Derby, a nationally recognized late-model race that attracts elite drivers from across the country. The 0.5-mile asphalt oval features competitive racing in various classes and provides a thrilling experience for fans.
Five Flags Speedway Highlights:
Snowball Derby: Held in December, this late-model race is one of the most prestigious short-track events in the United States and a must-see for racing enthusiasts.
Competitive Local Series: Five Flags hosts divisions like Pro Trucks and Sportsman, with intense weekly competition for local fans.
Historic Track: Known for its role in late-model racing, Five Flags Speedway has a storied history and remains a key destination in Florida’s motorsport scene.
4. Showtime Speedway: Action-Packed Racing in Pinellas Park
Showtime Speedway, located in Pinellas Park, offers a 3/8-mile asphalt oval with high-energy racing that includes everything from Sprint Cars to Figure 8 racing. Known for its unique events and variety of racing classes, Showtime Speedway is popular with fans who enjoy non-stop action and a diverse lineup.
Showtime Speedway Highlights:
Sprint Cars and Figure 8 Racing: Known for exciting and unconventional events, Showtime Speedway regularly hosts Figure 8 races and Sprint Car events.
Family Entertainment: With affordable ticket prices and family-friendly events, Showtime Speedway is accessible to fans of all ages.
Weekly Racing Series: Showtime hosts races across multiple classes, providing something for every racing fan throughout the season.
5. 417 Southern Speedway: South Florida’s Short-Track Gem
Located in Punta Gorda, 417 Southern Speedway is a 3/8-mile asphalt oval known for hosting competitive short-track racing. The track’s fast layout and well-maintained surface make it a favorite among drivers and fans alike. 417 Southern Speedway’s calendar includes weekly races and special events like the Late Model series, bringing excitement to South Florida’s motorsport community.
417 Southern Speedway Highlights:
Late Model Series: Known for its strong Late Model division, the track hosts several Late Model events each season, drawing talent from across the region.
Grassroots Motorsports: 417 Southern Speedway is dedicated to supporting grassroots racing, providing a platform for local drivers and teams.
Community-Focused: The track offers an affordable, family-friendly environment, making it a popular choice for South Florida motorsports fans.
6. Orlando Kart Center: A Go-Kart Haven for All Ages
Orlando Kart Center is one of Florida’s top destinations for go-kart racing, featuring a fast and technical track designed for both rental kart racing and competitive karting events. This 0.7-mile circuit attracts racers of all ages and skill levels, making it ideal for families, beginners, and experienced kart racers looking for a fun and challenging experience.
Orlando Kart Center Highlights:
Rental and Racing Karts: The center offers rental karts for casual visitors and high-performance racing karts for competitive drivers.
Events and Competitions: Orlando Kart Center hosts league races, corporate events, and karting competitions, catering to enthusiasts of all levels.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With options for all ages and skill levels, the center provides an accessible entry point into motorsports for kids, families, and groups.
7. Bushnell Motorsports Park: A High-Speed Karting Experience
Located in Bushnell, Bushnell Motorsports Park offers a range of karting experiences, including open kart rentals, competitive racing, and drift karting. The 0.7-mile track is designed for high-speed thrills, with a layout that includes tight turns, sweeping corners, and elevation changes. Known for its friendly atmosphere and flexible offerings, Bushnell Motorsports Park is a favorite among karting enthusiasts.
Bushnell Motorsports Park Highlights:
Kart Rentals and Drift Karts: The park offers both traditional kart rentals and unique drift karts, providing a fun, controlled environment for thrill-seekers.
Competitive Events: Bushnell hosts competitive karting events throughout the year, attracting racers from across Florida.
Family-Oriented: The park’s diverse offerings make it suitable for all ages, with opportunities for kids and adults to enjoy kart racing together.