Atlanta Motor Speedway: A Local’s Guide to Racing, Events, and Visiting from Atlanta

If you’ve heard people around the metro area talk about the Atlanta Speedway, they’re almost always referring to Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS)—a major racing and entertainment hub located just south of the city. Whether you live in Atlanta, are planning a visit, or just want to understand what happens there, this guide will walk you through how the speedway fits into Atlanta life and how to make the most of a trip.

Where Is “Atlanta Speedway” and What Is It?

Although it carries the Atlanta name, Atlanta Motor Speedway is actually in Hampton, Georgia, about 25–35 miles south of downtown Atlanta, depending on your route and traffic.

Basic info:

• Name: Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Address: 1500 Tara Place, Hampton, GA 30228
• General Phone: Often listed on the track’s main contact line or ticket office
• Approx. drive from Atlanta: 35–60 minutes from downtown, longer in race traffic

The speedway is a 1.5-mile oval race track best known for NASCAR Cup Series races, but it also hosts:

• Car shows and driving experiences
• Concerts and festivals
• Local and regional racing events
• Community and charity events
• Large-scale special events like RV shows and trade shows

For people in and around Atlanta, AMS is a major regional attraction—especially for motorsports fans, campers, and families looking for a big event day trip.

Major Events at Atlanta Motor Speedway

NASCAR Races

The biggest draw to Atlanta Motor Speedway is NASCAR. The track typically hosts:

• A NASCAR Cup Series race weekend
• Supporting races like Xfinity Series and Truck Series events

Race weekends are multi-day events, often including:

• Practice and qualifying sessions
• Multiple race series
• Fan zones and interactive displays
• Driver appearances and autograph sessions

If you’re in Atlanta, race weekends are when you’ll notice:

• Heavier traffic on I-75 southbound and surrounding roads
• More visitors in local hotels from the airport area down through Henry and Clayton counties

Other Racing and Motorsports Events

Beyond NASCAR, the speedway may host:

• Short-track and regional racing
• Driving schools and racing experiences
• Drifting or car club events
• Track days and amateur events

If you’re into cars or motorsports and live in Atlanta, AMS is one of the closest major facilities where you can watch or sometimes even participate in motorsports-related activities.

Non-Racing Events

Atlanta Motor Speedway is also used for non-racing events, which can be helpful to know even if you aren’t a racing fan:

• Concerts and music festivals
• Holiday light displays and seasonal attractions
• RV, boat, or outdoor shows
• Charity walks, runs, or fundraising events
• Auto shows and swap meets

Residents in Atlanta sometimes visit AMG for these events even if they never attend a race.

Getting from Atlanta to Atlanta Motor Speedway

Driving Routes from Atlanta

Most people in Atlanta travel to AMS by car. Common options:

• From Downtown/Midtown Atlanta:
  • Take I-75 South, then follow signs through the Hampton/Griffin area to the track.
• From the Airport Area:
  • Many visitors arrive at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and drive south via I-75.

Allow extra time on event days, especially for NASCAR weekends, when traffic can be slow near exits and local roads.

Parking and Traffic Tips

On major event days, parking is typically organized into large fields and lots around the speedway.

Helpful tips:

• Arrive early. For big races, many Atlanta-area regulars try to arrive in the morning, even if the race is in the afternoon.
• Check parking maps. There are usually different lots for general parking, RVs, and premium parking.
• Have cash/card handy. Some lots can be paid, others may be free depending on the event.
• Plan your exit route. After big events, local sheriff’s offices and law enforcement often direct traffic; it can take time to get back to I-75.

If you’re not attending but live nearby (Stockbridge, McDonough, Jonesboro, Fayetteville), consider adjusting local travel on race days, as traffic can back up.

Ticketing and Seating: What Atlanta Visitors Should Know

Types of Tickets

For major races and concerts, you’ll typically find:

• Grandstand seats (main spectator areas)
• Club or premium seating (with added amenities)
• Infield or trackside access (for certain events)
• Camping passes for RVs and tents

Prices and seat locations vary by event and how early you buy. Many Atlanta residents buy single-day tickets for a main race, while dedicated fans may purchase weekend packages.

What the Seating Is Like

AMS has large grandstands that give a clear view of most of the track. Common considerations:

• Sun exposure: Races can be hot in spring/summer; bring sunscreen and a hat.
• Noise level: Stock cars are very loud; ear protection is strongly recommended for adults and children.
• Family sections: Some events may offer more family-friendly or alcohol-limited sections; check seat descriptions when you buy.

Camping and RV Options at Atlanta Motor Speedway

One of the unique aspects of the Atlanta Motor Speedway experience is on-site camping. For many fans in Georgia and beyond, race weekend is as much about camp culture as the event itself.

On-Site Camping

The speedway typically offers multiple camping areas, such as:

• Infield camping (inside the track, often more expensive and closer to the action)
• Exterior RV fields around the property
• Tent camping areas

Common features:

• Varied hookup options (full hookups vs. dry camping)
• Quiet hours and rules for generators
• Designated areas for different types of campers

If you live in metro Atlanta, you can treat NASCAR weekend at AMS like a staycation camping trip, driving down with your RV or tent and staying for the entire event.

Nearby Lodging for Non-Campers

If you prefer a hotel instead of camping, typical options are in:

• McDonough
• Stockbridge
• Jonesboro
• Areas near Hartsfield–Jackson Airport

These locations give reasonably quick access to the speedway while still keeping you closer to Atlanta’s restaurants and attractions.

What to Bring (and Not Bring) from Atlanta

Policies can change by event, but many visitors plan around a few common guidelines.

Commonly Useful Items

• Ear protection (earplugs or earmuffs, especially for children)
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Comfortable shoes (you may walk across large lots and up many stairs)
• Small bag or clear bag if permitted by event policy
• Light jacket or poncho if there’s a chance of rain

Many major races allow you to bring certain food, drinks, and coolers with restrictions on size and type (no glass, limited dimensions). Always check the latest rules before packing.

Typical Restrictions

Most large sporting and entertainment venues restrict:

• Weapons or anything that could be considered a weapon
• Glass bottles and containers
• Very large backpacks or hard-sided coolers
• Drones or unauthorized recording equipment

If you’re traveling down from Atlanta by rideshare or carpool, it’s helpful to pack light so you’re not carrying bulky items far from the car to your seat.

Family-Friendly Aspects for Atlanta Residents and Visitors

Despite the loud cars and high energy, Atlanta Motor Speedway can be quite family-friendly, especially during the day.

Potential family attractions:

• Kid-focused zones or activities on race weekends
• Displays from sponsors, often with giveaways or interactive games
• Opportunities for kids to see race cars up close in certain fan areas

Things families from Atlanta often keep in mind:

• Noise: Young children may need over-the-ear protection.
• Heat: Races can be long; sun protection and hydration are important.
• Crowds: Hold hands or use a stroller for smaller children to keep them close in large crowds.

How Atlanta Motor Speedway Fits into the Bigger Atlanta Experience

For someone living in or visiting Atlanta, AMS can:

• Be a day trip: Go down for a race, event, or festival and return the same evening.
• Turn into a weekend getaway: Combine camping or a local hotel with multiple days of events.
• Combine with other Atlanta attractions:
  • Spend a day at the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or Centennial Olympic Park, then head to AMS the next day.
  • Stay near the airport for easy access both to downtown and to the speedway.

Many Atlantans who don’t consider themselves “race fans” still visit AMS once or twice for the experience, especially when friends or family from out of town want something uniquely regional to do.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors

Here’s a simple summary table to help you plan:

If You’re Not Attending but Live in Metro Atlanta

Even if you never plan to visit Atlanta Motor Speedway, it still helps to know:

• Race weekends can affect traffic patterns on I-75 and surface roads around Hampton, McDonough, and nearby areas.
• Some businesses south of Atlanta may be busier than usual with visitors.
• If you’re planning travel from Atlanta to coastal Georgia or Florida on I-75 south, checking the race schedule can help you avoid congestion days.

Understanding “Atlanta Speedway” really means understanding Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton and how it connects to life in and around Atlanta. Whether you’re planning your first NASCAR weekend, taking the family to a festival, or just managing your travel around big events, knowing the basics of the speedway’s location, traffic, and experience will make things smoother and more enjoyable.