Atlanta, known as the “Capital of the South,” is a popular tourist destination. Not only does the city have a full roster of professional sports teams (Falcons, Hawks, Thrashers and Braves), but the city has also played host to major sporting events including the Super Bowl and the Olympics. Additionally, Atlanta also hosts the SEC Championship game and the Peach Bowl each year.

Former NASCAR champion Bill Elliott, a Georgia native, is part of the committee lobbying NASCAR to place the Hall of Fame in his home state. The state of Georgia is also home to several large NASCAR sponsors whom are actively involved in funding and supporting this project. The list includes Coke, The Home Depot, UPS and SunTrust.

* - Metro population numbers based on 2000 census