Tailgating: Kansas

For one weekend each year, the Nextel Cup Series really is in Kansas. Kansas Speedway is still a new track, and it was built with fans in mind -- complete with a Fan Walk!

Getting there

Kansas Speedway is at the intersection of I-435 and I-70 in Wyandotte County(Bonner Springs), about 15 miles west of downtown Kansas City, Kan.

From KCI airport: Take I-29 North to I-435 West to I-70 West, exit at 110th Street (No. 410).

From the East: Take I-70 West. Pass I-435 and exit at 110th Street (No. 410). Turn right to enter the speedway.

From the North and South: Take I-435 and exit at State Avenue west and turn right. Kansas Speedway is 0.5 miles ahead.

What to bring

Fans entering the grandstands at Kansas are allowed to bring with them:

• Binoculars, scanners, headsets, cell phones and cameras clipped on belts or worn around necks.

• One soft-sided, 6 x 6 x 12-inch bag.

Outside food or drinks, ice, coolers of any type and drink containers are not permitted through the grandstand gates.

All bags are subject to search. Only hand-held, battery-powered fans no larger than six inches are allowed through the gates. Spray fans that hold liquids are not permitted.

Since the track advises getting there before 8 a.m., I suggest bringing a grill, food, chairs and and some games to pass the time while you are tailgating.

Parking and camping

Parking is free at Kansas Speedway, but overnight camping is not permitted in parking areas. All lots open at 6 a.m. Grandstand gates open at 8 a.m.

All camping spots at Kansas Speedway are on a reserved basis and are approximately 20 x 45-foot spaces. Only self-contained recreational vehicles are permitted to camp. Tents are not permitted.

To the north of the speedway are commercial lots -- Cabalas, Nebraska Furniture Mart, eating establishments, hotels, etc. -- that allow parking for fans. There are many campgrounds within a short drive of the speedway, some providing shuttle service.