ABOUT KANSAS CITY

Located in America’s heartland, Kansas City blends high-octane NASCAR action with a welcoming Midwestern spirit. Known as the home of Kansas Speedway, this city roars to life twice a year when fans from across the country pack the grandstands for the Hollywood Casino 400 and other major events. The Speedway anchors a growing entertainment district that makes Kansas City one of the best stops on the NASCAR calendar.

Not just racing
While NASCAR is the main attraction for the race fans, Kansas City offers far more than what happens on the track. The nearby Village West district features the Hollywood Casino, Legends Outlets, and plenty of restaurants and bars just steps from the Speedway. A short drive takes you into downtown Kansas City, Missouri, where the Power & Light District offers live music, nightlife, and dining. The city is also world-famous for its barbecue, with legendary restaurants like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant’s drawing food lovers from across the country.

Outdoor adventures
Fans who want to enjoy the outdoors can explore scenic parks and lakes around the metropolitan area. Wyandotte County Lake Park offers hiking, fishing, and picnicking, while Shawnee Mission Park is popular for boating, trails, and nature viewing. Just outside the city, rolling plains and wooded areas provide a classic Midwestern backdrop, especially colorful in the fall.

Culture & entertainment
Kansas City has a proud cultural heritage. The American Jazz Museum and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the historic 18th & Vine District celebrate two of the city’s most important contributions to American culture. Live music is everywhere, from small jazz clubs to big venues like the T-Mobile Center and the outdoor Starlight Theatre. Sports fans can also catch a Kansas City Royals baseball game or a Kansas City Chiefs football game if their schedules line up with race weekend.

Where to stay
Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodations, from campgrounds near Kansas Speedway to hotels and motels throughout the Village West area. Many fans prefer staying close to the track, but downtown Kansas City offers boutique hotels and big-name brands for those who want easy access to nightlife and dining. Booking early is recommended, as race weekends draw large crowds.

Why it belongs on your tri
Whether you come for the roar of stock cars, the smoky flavor of Kansas City barbecue, the energy of live jazz, or the relaxed pace of the Midwest outdoors, Kansas City offers a race weekend experience that goes far beyond the track. NASCAR may be the headline, but the city ensures there’s plenty to enjoy before and after the green flag waves.