Tailgating: Atlanta

Atlanta Motor Speedway is one of the most fan-friendly tracks on the circuit, has great tailgating, features plenty of three-wide racing -- and there's not a bad seat in the house. What more could you ask for?

Getting there

From the north: Take I-75 South to Exit 218 and continue on Highway 20 West for 10 miles. Or take Exit 235 and continue on U.S. Highway 19/41 for 15 miles.

From the south: Travel I-75 North to Exit 205. Take GA 16 West into Griffin, then U.S. Highway 19/41 North to the speedway. Or take Exit 212. Hampton-Locust Grove Road West to GA 20. Then take GA 20 to the speedway.

The city of Atlanta is legendary for a lot of things, and one of them is traffic! Bring a map that shows U.S. highways and state roads. There are back roads that can take you to the interstate while bypassing the city of Atlanta. Take note of where you park at AMS and what direction you came from.

Parking and camping

Atlanta Motor Speedway has more than 870 acres of free parking for race fans. There are also parking passes available for the paved lots located directly behind the Champions Grandstand. For more information, contact the ticket office at (770) 946-4211.

RAGU Reserved Camping (Turn 1), East Turn Reserved Camping (behind Petty and Elliott), Legends Reserved Camping (right on Hwy19/41 some have hookups) and the Mid-State RV Center Family Campground (on the left coming in Gate C) are the reserved lots with prices that range from $100 to $150.

50-plus acres of unreserved camping are located on the north side of Speedway Blvd. The price is $60.

Private camping and parking: Free parking is available on all speedway property. Many of the areas on the side of the road have enough room to tailgate next to your car. Oak Street (directly across from the main entrance) is a good choice for parking, as you can get out of dodge quickly. Remember to turn your car around and park on the side of the road facing in the direction from which you will be leaving.

What to bring

• Coolers made of any material are allowed, as long as they are 14 inches or smaller on all sides. No glass is allowed.

• Bags: Backpacks, scanner bags, camera bags, etc.

• Allow extra time if you are carrying a cooler or bag, as all bags are subject to search.

• Tailgating items: A grill, food, chairs and games.