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Sonoma Raceway: A Thrill Ride Through Wine Country

Experience the thrill of motorsports in California's wine country at Sonoma Raceway, home to NASCAR, IndyCar, and NHRA events.

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Nestled in the Sonoma Mountains, Sonoma Raceway has been a premier motorsports destination since 1968. This challenging road course and dragstrip hosts major NASCAR, IndyCar, and NHRA events, offering fans a unique blend of high-speed action and scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Sonoma Raceway

Local tips

  • Arrive early for major events to navigate traffic and find parking.
  • Bring ear protection, especially for races with loud engines.
  • Check the raceway's website for event schedules, ticket availability, and camping options.
  • Consider bringing a seat cushion, as some seating areas have concrete terraces.
  • Explore the nearby city of Sonoma for dining, lodging, and historical attractions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Sonoma Raceway is located off Highway 121, north of the intersection with Highway 37. From San Francisco, take US 101 north to Highway 37 east, then Highway 121 north. Expect traffic delays during major events. General parking is free. Reserved parking is available for purchase.

  • Public Transport

    Limited public transportation options are available. Golden Gate Transit Bus 101 runs from San Francisco to the DeLong Ave Bus Pad in Novato. From there, take a taxi or rideshare to the raceway; this will cost approximately $40-$60. Rally offers bus services to Sonoma Raceway from various Bay Area locations for major events.

  • Rideshare

    Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available, with a designated pickup/drop-off area at Gate 6 off Highway 121. Expect surge pricing and delays after major events due to high demand. Walking a short distance from the venue may make pickup easier.

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Discover more about Sonoma Raceway

Sonoma Raceway, located in the heart of California's wine country, has been a cornerstone of motorsports since its opening in 1968. Originally known as Sears Point Raceway, the track was built on 720 acres and has evolved into a versatile complex that hosts a wide array of racing events. The road course is a challenging 2.52-mile circuit with 12 turns and 160 feet of elevation change. This layout tests drivers with its technical corners and elevation shifts, making it a favorite among racers and spectators alike. Sonoma Raceway is one of the few tracks to host a NASCAR Cup Series race on a road course, adding to its distinctive appeal. In addition to the road course, Sonoma Raceway features a 440-yard dragstrip that hosts NHRA events. This dragstrip has been a staple since 1987, drawing some of the biggest names in drag racing. The facility has a seating capacity of 47,000, providing ample space for fans to witness the thrilling action. Throughout the year, Sonoma Raceway hosts various events, including the NASCAR Cup Series, the IndyCar Series, drag racing, and motorcycle races. The raceway also hosts amateur racing events and car club gatherings. Over the years, Sonoma Raceway has undergone several transformations. In 1969, it was sold to Filmways Corp. and later experienced a period of closure before being leased and eventually sold again. Speedway Motorsports, Inc. acquired the track in 1996 and began a series of renovations and upgrades, including the addition of "The Chute," an 890-foot high-speed stretch used for NASCAR events. The track was renamed Infineon Raceway in 2002 before returning to Sonoma Raceway in 2012. Today, Sonoma Raceway is a year-round motorsports complex, hosting events almost daily. Its location near the city of Sonoma offers visitors the chance to explore the region's rich history and attractions.

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