Fans' Guide: Chicagoland

When NASCAR fans filter into to Chicagoland Speedway, they will have plenty of options to explore.

Of course, the top three attractions include Saturday's Busch Grand National Series event -- the Tropicana Twister 300 -- and the third race of the International Race of Champions Series.

On Sunday, the Winston Cup drivers take to the 1.5-mile D-shaped tri-oval for the Tropicana 400.

NASCAR makes its second visit to Chicagoland Speedway this weekend. Credit: ASP

"We are extremely excited to be able to host Busch, IROC and Winston Cup events for our fans in one weekend, especially since this is only our second season," said Brian Crichton, Chicagoland Speedway's director of public relations.

The entertainment slate begins Thursday night from 5 to 9 p.m. CT with the Race Fest in downtown Joilet, Ill., on Chicago Street, three miles from the track.

Race Fest, which is free to the public, offers a slice of heaven for NASCAR fans.

The agenda includes Joliet Center Cruise Night. The City of Joliet holds a classic car Cruise Night every Thursday night during the summer. This Thursday it will have the addition of NASCAR drivers, show cars and other displays. The Car Cruise is expected to draw over 200 classic cars.

Also on Thursday is Race Night at the Rialto. The Rialto is located across from Van Buren Plaza off of Chicago Street, in Downtown Joliet.

At the Rialto Theatre, Hank Parker Jr., (5:30-6:15 p.m.), Shane Hmiel and Steadman Marlin (7:15-8 p.m.), Stacey Compton and Tim Sauter (8:15-9 p.m.) will be signing autographs. Fans can also try racing simulators there.

Meanwhile, at the Harrah's FanFest Corner, located at Chicago & Clinton in the Joliet Library Parking lot there will be more for spectators to see.

The No. 14 Harrah's Busch Series Monte Carlo will be on display, the Harrah's Girls will be attendance and Robbie Gordon, Larry Foyt, Compton and Hmiel will be signing autographs at yet-to-be announced times.

Actually, racing is not the only thing on the fan's menu at Chicagoland either.

Right outside the main gates of the Speedway sits Expo Village, which offers a little bit of everything for spectators.

There are Pepsi stages with live music and Dodge City, where futuristic and current Dodge cars will be on display.

Then, fans that want to try their hands in the pits can get a group of buddies together and enter the Mountain Dew Pit Crew Challenge.

What's more, admission to the Expo Village is free, as is parking.

As for T-shirts and souvenirs, spectators can venture to the Merchandise Midway, adjacent to the Expo Village, and find what they are looking for.

Prior to the start of the Cup race Sunday from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. CT, fans will be treated to a concert from country music artist Jo Dee Messina.