How to Road Trip to Texas Motor Speedway from Fort Worth

Planning a road trip to Texas Motor Speedway from Fort Worth is more than just a drive—it’s an experience that blends motorsport culture, scenic Texas landscapes, and the thrill of one of the most iconic racetracks in the country. Whether you’re heading to a NASCAR event, a racing school, or simply exploring the heart of American motorsports, knowing how to navigate this route efficiently and safely enhances your entire journey. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of the trip, from route selection and timing to amenities, safety tips, and insider knowledge that only locals and seasoned visitors possess. With over 40 years of racing history and hosting major events like the O’Reilly Auto Parts 500 and the Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400, Texas Motor Speedway is a pilgrimage site for racing enthusiasts. This guide ensures your road trip is seamless, memorable, and optimized for both convenience and enjoyment.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Destination and Event Details

Before you even turn the key in your ignition, verify the exact address of Texas Motor Speedway: 3347 Lone Star Circle, Fort Worth, TX 76177. While the speedway is located within the city limits of Fort Worth, it sits approximately 17 miles northeast of downtown, near the intersection of US-377 and I-35W. If you’re attending a specific event—such as a NASCAR Cup Series race, IndyCar weekend, or fan festival—check the official Texas Motor Speedway website for gate openings, parking assignments, and any road closures or traffic advisories. Event days often bring heavy congestion, so knowing your event schedule down to the minute allows you to plan departure times strategically.

Step 2: Choose Your Route

There are two primary routes from central Fort Worth to Texas Motor Speedway, each offering distinct advantages depending on your starting point and time of day.

Route A: I-35W North (Fastest, Most Direct)

Start at your location in Fort Worth and merge onto I-35W North. Continue for approximately 14 miles. Exit at Exit 50B (US-377 North toward Dallas). Follow US-377 North for 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Lone Star Circle. The speedway entrance will be immediately on your left. This route typically takes 20–25 minutes in light traffic and is the most commonly used path by locals and event attendees.

Route B: US-287 North to US-377 North (Scenic Alternative)

If you’re coming from the western or southern parts of Fort Worth, consider taking US-287 North to US-377 North. This route offers a more rural feel with fewer commercial interchanges and is ideal if you want to avoid the busier I-35W corridor. It adds about 5–7 minutes to your trip but provides a more relaxed driving experience. Look for signs directing you to “Texas Motor Speedway” as you approach the intersection near the North Richland Hills border.

Use real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor congestion, especially during race weekends. On event days, I-35W can experience backups as early as 3–4 hours before the green flag. Consider leaving 30–45 minutes earlier than usual if you’re attending a major race.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle

Even a short 20-mile drive requires vehicle readiness. Check your tire pressure, including the spare, and ensure your oil level is adequate. Texas summers can push engine temperatures to their limits, so verify your coolant system is functioning properly. Fill your tank before you leave—gas stations near the speedway often charge premium prices on event days. Pack a portable phone charger, a first-aid kit, and bottled water. If you’re bringing children or pets, ensure you have appropriate restraints and cooling supplies. A sunshade for your windshield can make a significant difference when parked under the Texas sun.

Step 4: Plan Parking in Advance

Parking at Texas Motor Speedway is abundant but organized by event type and ticket tier. General admission parking is free and available in designated lots surrounding the track. VIP and premium ticket holders receive reserved spots closer to the grandstands. For non-event days, the speedway offers public parking for tours and driving experiences. Always confirm your parking assignment via your event ticket or the speedway’s mobile app. On race weekends, arriving early—by 7:00 a.m. for a 2:00 p.m. race—is critical. Traffic can back up for miles on US-377 and Lone Star Circle, and once the main lots fill, you may be directed to overflow parking up to 2 miles away.

Step 5: Navigate the Speedway Campus

Once you arrive at the entrance, follow directional signage to your assigned parking zone. The speedway is laid out like a large oval with multiple access points. The main entrance is on Lone Star Circle, but secondary entrances exist off US-377 and via the backstretch. Use the official Texas Motor Speedway app to view a real-time parking map, locate restrooms, food vendors, and merchandise stands. If you’re unfamiliar with the layout, take note of your parking lot number and row. Many attendees use landmarks like the giant Texas flag near Gate 3 or the Johnson & Johnson Fan Zone as reference points.

Step 6: Enter the Facility and Enjoy

Have your ticket (digital or printed) and ID ready at the gate. Security lines can be lengthy on major event days, so arrive early. Once inside, explore the Fan Zone, which features interactive exhibits, driver meet-and-greets, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to walk the pit lane on certain days—this is a rare opportunity to see race cars up close. If you’re attending a race, find your seat early to enjoy pre-race ceremonies, driver intros, and the iconic “Start Your Engines” countdown.

Step 7: Departure Strategy

Leaving the speedway can be just as challenging as arriving. After the checkered flag, traffic exits are staggered by grandstand section to prevent gridlock. Wait for announcements over the PA system or check the app for exit instructions. Avoid the temptation to leave immediately—wait 15–30 minutes after the race ends to avoid the worst congestion. If you parked in an overflow lot, shuttle buses are often provided. Keep your keys and phone handy. If you’re heading back to downtown Fort Worth, consider taking US-377 South to I-820 West, then I-30 East for a smoother return route.

Best Practices

Timing Is Everything

One of the most overlooked best practices is timing your departure. Avoid leaving Fort Worth between 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on weekdays, as this overlaps with rush hour traffic on I-35W. For event days, aim to leave by 10:00 a.m. for a 2:00 p.m. race. This gives you ample time to park, walk to your seat, grab food, and soak in the pre-race atmosphere. If you’re visiting on a non-event day, mid-morning or early afternoon is ideal—parking is easier, and the speedway offers guided tours that run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dress for the Elements

Texas weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even on cool mornings, temperatures can soar past 95°F by midday. Wear breathable, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen with SPF 50+ every two hours. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker for evening events, as temperatures can drop rapidly after sunset. Closed-toe shoes are recommended—concrete and asphalt surfaces get extremely hot, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Bring Cash and Cards

While most vendors accept credit cards, some smaller food trucks and souvenir stands operate on a cash-only basis. Carry at least $50 in small bills for concessions, parking tips (if applicable), or unexpected purchases. ATMs are available inside the speedway, but they often have long lines and service fees. Pre-loading a reloadable debit card with funds for the day is a smart alternative.

Stay Hydrated and Fuelled

Dehydration is a real risk during long days in the Texas sun. Bring a reusable water bottle—you can refill it at designated hydration stations throughout the facility. Many attendees bring insulated coolers with snacks and drinks, which are permitted in most seating areas. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol before the race; they can increase dehydration and make it harder to navigate crowds.

Respect the Environment and Community

Texas Motor Speedway is located in a residential area near North Richland Hills and Haltom City. Avoid littering, especially in parking lots. Use designated trash and recycling bins. Keep noise levels reasonable when exiting your vehicle, especially early in the morning. Many locals live within walking distance of the speedway, and community goodwill matters. Leave your parking spot cleaner than you found it.

Use Technology Wisely

Download the Texas Motor Speedway app before you leave home. It provides live race updates, interactive maps, real-time traffic alerts, and mobile ordering for food and merchandise. Enable location services for the most accurate navigation. Use offline maps as a backup in case cellular service is spotty near the track. Consider creating a shared Google Maps pin with your group so everyone can track each other’s location once inside the facility.

Plan for Emergencies

Know the location of the nearest first-aid stations—there are multiple throughout the speedway, typically near major concourses and restrooms. Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone, and ensure at least one member of your group has a fully charged power bank. If you’re traveling with elderly individuals or children, assign a meeting point in case you get separated. The Guest Services booth near Gate 1 is a reliable point of contact.

Tools and Resources

Official Texas Motor Speedway Website

The primary resource for all things related to the speedway is texasmotorspeedway.com. Here, you can purchase tickets, view event calendars, download maps, check weather forecasts for race day, and sign up for email alerts about schedule changes. The site also features a virtual tour of the facility, which is invaluable for first-time visitors trying to understand the layout.

Google Maps and Waze

Both apps offer live traffic updates, estimated arrival times, and alternate route suggestions. Waze is particularly useful during events because it aggregates real-time reports from other drivers—such as accidents, speed traps, or parking lot closures. Set your destination as “Texas Motor Speedway” and enable traffic layer. Save the location as a favorite for quick access on future trips.

Texas Motor Speedway Mobile App

Available on iOS and Android, the official app is indispensable. It includes:

• Interactive seating and parking maps
• Live race timing and leaderboards
• Mobile food ordering with pickup locations
• Push notifications for weather delays or schedule changes
• Driver bios and race stats

Download it 24–48 hours before your visit to ensure all features are synced and updated.

Weather.com and National Weather Service

Check the forecast for the Fort Worth area at least 48 hours in advance. Thunderstorms are common in spring and summer, and races have been postponed or delayed due to lightning. The National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office provides detailed radar and storm tracking. If rain is predicted, bring a lightweight rain poncho—umbrellas are not permitted in the grandstands.

GasBuddy and AAA Fuel Price Finder

Gas prices fluctuate significantly near major event venues. Use GasBuddy to locate the cheapest fuel within a 5-mile radius of your starting point. Stations like Shell, Chevron, and 7-Eleven along I-35W and US-377 often have competitive pricing. Avoid filling up at the speedway’s own gas stations unless absolutely necessary—they charge 20–40% more.

Local Transit and Ride-Sharing Options

While most visitors drive, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate regularly to and from the speedway. Designated drop-off and pickup zones are clearly marked. If you’re staying in downtown Fort Worth, consider using the T-REX transit service on event days—it connects the Fort Worth Convention Center to the speedway via shuttle bus. Check the T-REX schedule on the city’s transit website for updated routes.

Driving Safety Apps

Apps like DriveSafe.ly and Life360 help monitor your driving behavior and alert you to speed limits, red-light cameras, and nearby hazards. Life360 also allows you to share your location with family members, providing peace of mind during long drives. For those with older vehicles, consider a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner that connects to your phone and alerts you to engine issues before they become critical.

Recommended Reading and Media

For deeper context, read “The Speedway: A History of Texas Motor Speedway” by Jim Utter, available on Amazon. Watch the documentary “Racing the Line” on Netflix, which features behind-the-scenes footage from Texas Motor Speedway. Podcasts like “The Speedway Insider” offer weekly updates on upcoming events and driver interviews.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekend NASCAR Fan

Mark and Lisa, a couple from Arlington, planned their first trip to Texas Motor Speedway for the Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race in August. They left their home at 8:30 a.m., avoiding rush hour, and took I-35W North. Using Waze, they avoided a minor accident near the I-820 interchange and arrived at the speedway by 9:45 a.m. They parked in Lot D (general admission) and walked to Section 124, Row 22. They used the speedway app to order nachos and a soda, picking them up at Concession Stand 7 without waiting in line. During the race, they watched the pit stops from their seats and took photos of the fireworks after the checkered flag. They left 20 minutes after the race ended, using US-377 South to I-820 West to bypass the worst of the outbound traffic. Their total trip time, including parking and event duration, was 8 hours. They returned home by 6:30 p.m., exhausted but thrilled.

Example 2: The Solo Tourist

Jamal, a high school history teacher from Denton, visited the speedway on a Tuesday in April for a guided tour. He left his home at 10:00 a.m. via US-287 North, enjoying the open road and minimal traffic. He arrived at 10:40 a.m., parked in the visitor lot, and joined the 11:00 a.m. tour. The guide explained the track’s 1.5-mile oval design, the banking angles, and the technology behind the SAFER barriers. Jamal took photos of the garage area and the NASCAR haulers parked in the infield. He bought a souvenir hat and a track map. He left at 1:30 p.m., taking the same route back, and arrived home by 2:15 p.m. His trip cost under $30 in gas and $25 for the tour. He later used the experience as a lesson in American engineering for his students.

Example 3: The Family Road Trip

The Rodriguez family from Euless drove to Texas Motor Speedway for their daughter’s 10th birthday. They packed snacks, a portable speaker, and a Bluetooth-connected GPS device for their minivan. They left at 7:00 a.m. and took US-377 North, stopping at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for a quick breakfast and photo op. They arrived at 8:15 a.m., parked in Lot B, and explored the Fan Zone where their daughter met a retired NASCAR driver. They watched the race from the grandstands and later toured the Victory Lane exhibit. They left at 5:00 p.m. and ate dinner at a local Tex-Mex restaurant on the way home. The trip became a cherished family memory, documented in a photo album and shared on social media.

Example 4: The Photography Enthusiast

Chloe, a freelance photographer from Dallas, visited the speedway on a non-event day to capture sunrise over the track. She arrived at 5:30 a.m. and parked in the media lot (with prior permission). She shot the empty grandstands, the towering flagpole, and the early morning mist over the asphalt. She captured images of the maintenance crew preparing the track and the sunrise reflecting off the driver’s helmets in the garage. She spent four hours there and left at 9:30 a.m. Her photos were later featured in a national motorsport magazine. She credits her success to arriving before the crowds and knowing exactly where to position herself for the best lighting.

FAQs

Is Texas Motor Speedway really in Fort Worth?

Yes. While the mailing address is Fort Worth, the speedway sits on the northeastern edge of the city, near the border with North Richland Hills. It is officially part of the Fort Worth city limits and is managed by the city’s economic development office.

How long does it take to drive from downtown Fort Worth to Texas Motor Speedway?

Under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes 20–25 minutes via I-35W North. During peak traffic or race weekends, allow 40–60 minutes.

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the speedway?

Yes, non-alcoholic beverages in factory-sealed plastic bottles and small snacks in clear, soft-sided bags are permitted. Coolers are allowed but must be no larger than 14” x 14” x 14”. Glass containers, alcohol, and large coolers are prohibited.

Are there wheelchair-accessible parking and seating options?

Yes. Texas Motor Speedway provides ADA-compliant parking, restrooms, and seating throughout the facility. Accessible entrances are clearly marked. Contact the Guest Services team in advance to reserve accessible seating or request assistance.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and the most frequent racing events. Summer is hot but exciting, with night races and fireworks. Winter months have fewer events, making it ideal for quiet tours.

Can I bring my pet to Texas Motor Speedway?

Only service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted inside the facility. Emotional support animals are not allowed. Pets must remain in your vehicle if you’re parked in the lot.

Is there free Wi-Fi at the speedway?

Yes. The “TMS_FreeWiFi” network is available throughout the grandstands and concourses. You’ll need to accept terms of service upon connection. Signal strength may vary during large events due to high usage.

What should I do if I lose something at the speedway?

Visit the Guest Services booth near Gate 1 or call the lost and found line at (817) 215-8888. Items are held for 30 days. Keep your ticket stub—it often helps identify your seating area.

Are there hotels near Texas Motor Speedway?

Yes. Popular options include the Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Worth North, the Hyatt House Fort Worth North, and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Many offer shuttle services on race weekends. Book early—rooms fill up months in advance for major events.

Can I tour the speedway without attending a race?

Yes. Guided tours are available Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on non-event days. The tour includes the garage area, victory lane, and the media center. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for children.

Conclusion

A road trip from Fort Worth to Texas Motor Speedway is more than a commute—it’s a cultural journey into the soul of American motorsports. Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a first-time visitor, or a curious traveler, the experience is enriched by thoughtful preparation, smart navigation, and an appreciation for the details that make this destination unique. From choosing the right route to understanding parking logistics, from dressing for the Texas sun to capturing the electric energy of a live race, every step of this journey matters. Use the tools, follow the best practices, and learn from real examples to make your visit not just successful, but unforgettable. Texas Motor Speedway isn’t just a racetrack—it’s a landmark of speed, engineering, and community. When you drive there from Fort Worth, you’re not just going to a race. You’re becoming part of a legacy. Plan well, drive safely, and enjoy the ride.