Start your engines and explore these unique car and race attractions in Florida, perfect for racing fans:
While Florida’s Daytona Beach is renowned as “The Birthplace of Speed” and a hub for NASCAR, there are several other attractions in Florida for racing enthusiasts to indulge their passion for speed, including Disney World. If you’re a racing fan or traveling with one, consider these remarkable destinations during your next Florida visit.
1. Daytona International Speedway
The “Birthplace of Speed” has rightfully earned the title of the “World Center of Racing.” This iconic venue hosts numerous popular NASCAR events, drawing thousands of fans to experience thrilling speed weeks featuring world-class stock car, motorcycle, sports car, and go-kart racing.
Moreover, you can participate in the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Daytona International Speedway, which allows you to drive or enjoy a ride-along in a 600 HP NASCAR.
2. Disney’s “Cars” Characters at Disney World
Disney World offers numerous opportunities to meet beloved “Cars” characters, including Lightning McQueen, Mater, and the latest addition, Cruz Ramirez. From Hollywood Studios to Epcot, as well as a dedicated wing of the Art and Animation Resort, there are ample spots to indulge your passion for “Cars.”
3. St. Petersburg’s Firestone Grand Prix
Every March, downtown St. Petersburg transforms into a 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary racecourse alongside the bay front. This event showcases races from both the IndyCar Series and the American Le Mans Series. The street course features high fences, tight turns, and roaring race cars, making it a family-friendly affair with engaging activities for all ages, such as racing simulators, face painting, and rock climbing activities held off the raceway.
4. Daytona Beach’s Cruise Cafe
The Cruisin’ Cafe receives outstanding reviews from nearly everyone who visits! Conveniently located across from the Daytona Beach Pier, each table here is named after a Daytona 500 winner—from Lee Petty, the 1959 winner, to Jamie McMurray, the 2010 champion. Choose your favorite driver’s table to enhance your dining experience with a memorable lunch or dinner.
In addition to healthy options, Cruisin’ Cafe is famous for serving some of the best burgers in Florida. For a hearty challenge, take on the Cruisin Cup Challenge by ordering the Cruisin Cup Burger, featuring an impressive two pounds of all-beef patties topped with American, Swiss, Provolone, and Cheddar cheese, alongside lettuce, tomato, onion, and a pound of delicious French fries. Successfully finishing this challenge earns you a spot on their website, a t-shirt, and your name added to the Cup Burger trophy!
5. Sarasota’s Classic Car Museum
This destination is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the United States. The Sarasota Classic Car Museum boasts a rotating collection of one-of-a-kind classic cars. Here you can delve into the history of automobiles while admiring an extraordinary assortment of celebrity-owned classics and muscle cars, as well as rare vintage automobiles.
6. Ocala’s Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
Discover the remarkable collection of classic cars and extensive drag racing memorabilia at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, located just south of Ocala off I-75. Featuring over 90 drag racing cars alongside an additional 50 antique cars, this museum is a must-see for diehard drag racing aficionados.
