Planning a visit to the Daytona 500 with kids? Here’s what you need to know about one of the biggest racing events in America, from special pricing for children to behind-the-scenes tours of the famous speedway.
Daytona 500 Date
In 2017, the Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, Feb. 26, with other races and events scheduled throughout the weekend.
Daytona 500 Tickets
Standard tickets range from $95 to $230 per person; kids 12 and under are admitted free in general admission areas of the stadium. Two- and four-day packages are available for those who want to enjoy the full line-up of events.
Daytona 500 Attractions
Richard Petty Driving Experience: Want to see what it’s like to be a professional race car driver? Sign up for the Richard Petty Driving Experience, in which you’ll ride shotgun in an actual two-person NASCAR race car. Junior Ride-Along Experiences are available for children ages 6 to 13 (or at least 48 inches in height).
Motorsports Hall of Fame America: Located right at the Daytona International Speedway, the Motorsports Hall of Fame America showcases some of the most famous race cars, as well as other memorabilia and awards.
Speedway Tours: Take a 30-minute tour of the Daytona International Speedway via an open-air tram. You can also take a 90-minute All-Access Tour, which adds a visit to the media room and a view of the trioval and infield for amazing shots of the stadium. Want to really splurge? Try a three-hour VIP Tour aboard a charter shuttle. Admission to the Motorsports Hall of Fame America is included with all tours.
Looking for more things to do while you’re in town? See our list of the best Daytona Beach Family Attractions.
Daytona 500 Parking and Tailgating
Parking is free in Lot 7, and shuttles to and from the stadium are provided. However, visitors need to walk to the shuttle area, and it can take up to an hour (or more) for you to park your car, hop a shuttle and get to the speedway. Our suggestion? Stay at a local hotel that provides shuttle services.
Want to tailgate? You can access infield parking as early as 6 a.m. the day of the race; the cost is $55 per vehicle. Anyone over the age of 12 will be asked to present their stadium or infield ticket.
Daytona 500 Hotels for Families
These Daytona 500 hotels for families are within about a mile of the Daytona International Speedway, and some of them even provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the race track. All of them also offer complimentary breakfast and/or onsite dining and free Wi-Fi; a few have swimming pools, as well.
Homewood Suites Daytona Beach Speedway Airport
Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport
Residence Inn Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport
Hampton Inn Daytona Speedway/Airport
Daytona 500 Camping for Families
While some campsites have sold out, many are still available. Both tent and RV campsites are offered, and in most cases, children age 12 and under stay free. For a full list of Daytona 500 campsites, click here.
Daytona 500 Family Packing List
Here’s a handy list of items to pack for a trip to the Daytona 500 with kids:
-Cooler: Coolers are allowed in hospitality areas; they are subject to inspection.
-Ear Plugs
-Binoculars
-Portable Radio: This will allow you to tune in to the event and hear it much clearer. Be sure to download the Daytona International Speedway app for updates and other tips, too.
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