Kansas Speedway | Kansas City KS

Kansas Speedway is a premier motorsport facility situated in the Village West area of Kansas City, Kansas. Opened in 2001, it quickly became one of the Midwest’s most visited racing destinations. The Speedway was developed by the International Speedway Corporation and played a pivotal role in transforming western Kansas City into a major entertainment hub, surrounded by shopping, dining, and attractions like Legends Outlets and Children’s Mercy Park.

Track Design and Features

The Speedway features a 1.5-mile tri-oval track with progressive banking-17 to 20 degrees in the turns and 5 to 10 degrees on the front and back straightaways. This layout allows for high-speed competition and multiple racing lines, making for thrilling side-by-side action.
The grandstands seat approximately 48,000 fans, with additional space available for infield viewing and hospitality areas. The facility also includes luxury suites, modern garages, and a media center designed to accommodate major national racing events.

Lighting systems allow for night races, and the track’s smooth asphalt surface enables cars to reach speeds over 190 mph. For fans, every seat offers clear views of the entire circuit, creating a close, immersive experience with the race.

Major Events

Kansas Speedway hosts two annual NASCAR Cup Series races, typically held in spring (Busch Light Clash or AdventHealth 400) and fall (Hollywood Casino 400). These are among the most anticipated races in the Midwest, drawing large crowds and top drivers from across the country.

Other major events include:

NASCAR Xfinity Series

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

ARCA Menards Series races

Special motorsport exhibitions and car shows

The Speedway has also hosted music festivals, driving schools, and corporate events, showcasing its versatility beyond professional racing.

Fan Experience

The atmosphere at Kansas Speedway is electric during race weekends. Fans fill the parking lots early for tailgating, grilling, and socializing before the engines even start. The air buzzes with excitement-the thrum of V8 engines reverberating through the grandstands, the smell of fuel and tire rubber mixing with barbecue smoke, and the roar of the crowd rising as cars flash by.

The Speedway’s FanWalk and Infield Experience allow visitors to get close to the pit road, watch crews in action, and even walk across the track before races. The on-site Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway adds another layer of entertainment, offering gaming, restaurants, and hotel accommodations directly overlooking Turn 2.

Surrounding Attractions

Located in the thriving Village West district, the Speedway sits near several popular attractions:

Legends Outlets Kansas City, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Children’s Mercy Park, home of Sporting Kansas City (MLS).

Great Wolf Lodge, a family resort with indoor waterpark.

Kansas City Monarchs Baseball Stadium and Nebraska Furniture Mart nearby.

This concentration of activities makes the Speedway area a full-day or weekend destination for visitors.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: During major NASCAR weekends in spring and fall for the full racing atmosphere.

Parking: Large lots are available, but early arrival is recommended.

Seating: The middle and upper rows near Turns 1 and 4 offer the best panoramic views.

Experience Add-ons: Consider FanWalk or garage passes for behind-the-scenes access.

Conclusion

Kansas Speedway is more than just a racetrack-it’s a celebration of speed, sound, and community. Whether watching the nation’s best drivers duel at 200 mph or soaking in the pre-race excitement among tailgaters and families, the Speedway delivers a powerful mix of adrenaline and Midwest hospitality. Over two decades after its opening, it remains a landmark of Kansas City’s modern identity-where sport, entertainment, and passion meet on the asphalt.