Drive a Stock Car

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to drive a real Sprint Cup stock car? Experience the adrenaline rush as you race around at top speeds in the Drive a Stock Car experience at the Thompson International Speedway!

After a short classroom session where you'll learn about vehicle dynamics, racing lines, and safety instructions, you'll head out to the track to find your 500 horsepower Sprint Cup stock car waiting.

A crew member will buckle you in and check your radio, and then it's time to race! Put the pedal to the metal as you speed away under the waving green flag. You will be able to drive at your own pace, passing slower cars as you catch them. Experience side-by-side racing, passing, pit stops, and more!

Choose from a variety of lap options, but don't be surprised if you leave wanting more! This is the perfect bucket-list experience for the racing enthusiast!

Add a Ride Along
Select one of our options that includes a 4-lap ride along and let a professional driver show you the full potential of these amazing racecars as he take you on the ride of your life! The perfect addition for any driving package!

About the Thompson International Speedway
The Thompson International Speedway is the crown jewel of short track racing in the northeast. It is a 5/8-mile, high banked, oval track that was once known as the Indianapolis of the East. It was the first asphalt-paved oval racing track in the United States. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this track for yourself!

Essential Information

Duration

Maximum Participants

Spectators

Weather Dependent

What To Wear

Booking Information

Cancellation Policy

Experience ID

1. What is a typical day like?
   This driving experience begins with a 45-minute driver's meeting starting with a narrated van ride around the track and ending in the classroom. In the classroom you will receive an 8-page handout and cover vehicle dynamics, racing lines and safety instruction. Next, you'll head over to pit road for a racing suit and helmet. Be assigned a racecar, get buckled in and wait for the command to fire up your engine. Proceed to the track for a warm-up session of 1-3 laps covering radio contact, passing, proper lines, braking and acceleration points. Scrub the tires and start building speed before you finally receive the command to start!
2. What is the track like?
   The crown jewel of short track racing in the northeast, Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is a 5/8-mile high banked asphalt oval track that was once known as the Indianapolis of the East. It was the first asphalt-paved oval racing track in the United States and plays host to several major events each year. Length: 5/8 mile, Banking: 26 degrees, Track Shape: High banked oval
3. Is there an age requirement?
   All drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license.
4. Are there other requirements?
   Yes, drivers must be between 5'5" and 6'7" tall, weigh at least 100 pounds and have a waist size no larger than 50 inches. The doors on the cars do not open, so the participant must be able to fit into a standard size car window (15" high x 30" wide and 36" off the ground). If you're near the limits of the size requirements, please call prior to purchasing. There will be no refund due to a student's inability to fit in a race car.
5. What type of cars are used?
   All of the cars are race cars previously used in NASCAR Nextel Cup, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, NASCAR Busch Series or Dodge Weekly Racing Series.
6. Do I need to know how to drive a stick?
   No, you do not need to know how to drive a manual transmission. Our experience provider is able to accommodate drivers who have never driven manual before.
7. Can I choose the car that I will drive?
   Although all of the cars are the same, the seats are different sizes to fit different body types. The Crew Chief will assign students to cars based on size.
8. Are they real race cars?
   You bet! Each car has been raced in competition (including one that sat on the front row at Daytona!) One of the late models was raced last fall at Thompson and climbed from 24th place to an 8th-place finish.
9. What if it rains?
   In the event your session is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be provided a rain check good for 1 year. Refunds will not be offered.
10. Can I bring guests?
    Spectators are always allowed and encouraged! They are more than welcome to bring cameras and video cameras, as well as food and non-alcoholic beverages. Spectators are only allowed in the grandstands and behind the wall on pit road. Due to insurance regulations they are not allowed on the actual pit road.
11. Do I need a reservation?
    Yes, it is recommended to submit a request at least 30 days in advance for this particular track to ensure that you get your preferred date. The dates tend to fill up quickly.
12. Do I have to follow a pace car?
    No, you will not be required to follow a pace car. You will start behind a lead car for a few laps and then be waved by to race on your own.
13. Do I need to bring anything?
    Just your driver's license and a camera is highly recommended!
14. Do you offer photography or video of my experience?
    Yes, in-car video and professional digital photography are available for an additional cost. In-Car DVD package starts at $40.
15. Do I need to purchase insurance?
    An insurance policy is available for $70.00 for damage to the racecar, subject to a $1,500.00 deductible. Damage is rare due to the quality of training and the racecars. You are responsible for your own health insurance in the event that it is needed.