Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma Raceway: A Thrill Ride Through Wine Country
Sonoma Raceway: A Thrilling Hub for Motorsports
Experience the thrill of motorsports at Sonoma Raceway, Northern California's premier racing destination in the heart of wine country.
Sonoma Raceway, nestled in the scenic Sonoma wine country, is a premier motorsports destination. Since 1968, it has hosted a variety of racing events, including NASCAR, NHRA drag racing, and IndyCar, offering fans thrilling experiences with its challenging road course and drag strip.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Sonoma Raceway
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Driving
Sonoma Raceway is located north of the intersection of Highways 37 and 121. From San Francisco, take US-101 north to Highway 37 east, then turn left onto Highway 121 north. The track entrance is one mile on the left. General parking is free. Expect heavier traffic during major events.
Public Transport
From San Francisco, take Golden Gate Transit Bus 101 to the DeLong Ave Bus Pad in Novato. From there, a taxi or rideshare can complete the journey to Sonoma Raceway. Bus fare is approximately $7-10. A taxi from Novato to the raceway will cost approximately $30-$45.
Rideshare
Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available in the area. A ride from the city of Sonoma to Sonoma Raceway will cost $30-$45 and take about 17 minutes. There is a designated rideshare pickup/drop-off area at Gate 6. Expect surge pricing and delays after major events.
Local tips
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Arrive early for major events to navigate traffic and explore pre-race activities.
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Consider bringing ear protection, as racing events can be very loud.
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Take advantage of free general parking, but be prepared for a walk to the entrance.
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Check the raceway's website for a schedule of events and activities.
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Bring a seat cushion for more comfort on the concrete terrace seating.
Discover more about Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma Raceway, located at the gateway to Sonoma Valley wine country, has been a landmark in American motorsports for over 50 years. The raceway was built in 1968 as Sears Point Raceway on 720 acres of onetime farmland. The 2.52-mile road racing course was the brainchild of Marin County attorney Robert Marshall Jr. and land developer Jim Coleman.
The track features a challenging 12-turn layout with 160 feet of elevation change. Sonoma Raceway has evolved from a sleepy road course into one of the busiest motorsport facilities in the USA. It hosts a diverse range of events, including NASCAR, NHRA drag racing, IndyCar, and GT World Challenge America races.
NASCAR first came to Sonoma in 1989, bringing stock car racing to the twisting road course. The track has become known for its dramatic races and close battles. In addition to NASCAR, Sonoma Raceway has been a staple for NHRA drag racing since the 1980s. The raceway also offers opportunities for amateur racers with events like Wednesday Night Drags and amateur drifting events.
Over the years, Sonoma Raceway has undergone several transformations. In June 2002, Infineon Technologies secured a 10-year naming deal, and the track became Infineon Raceway. After the deal concluded, the raceway adopted the name Sonoma Raceway.
A brief summary to Sonoma Raceway
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