It’s almost summer and that means racing season is upon us. Thank goodness you’ve planned on road tripping through Kansas during that time. Those rolling plains of the Sunflower State are home to some of the wildest races and coolest tracks in the Midwest.
When it comes to knowing where to go and how to get there, there’s no one better than CarRentals.com. That’s why we’ve partnered with them to present the best racetracks in Kansas. Whether you’re a fan of straight-lining drag races or a classic 400-mile NASCAR race, your hair will be blown back either way.
Thunder Hill Speedway – Mayetta, Kansas
Normally, dust clouds and gas fumes would send most people clambering for the nearest exit, but not at Thunder Hill. Those two things go together as naturally as peanut butter and jelly. And you’re going to love it. The season begins at the end of April and runs every Saturday until the leaves change color in early September. Bring the kids—if they’re under the age of 12 they get in free—and spend a summer’s evening watching cars zip around a dirt track at top speeds.
Kansas Speedway – Kansas City, Kansas
The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series comes to the Kansas Speedway on May 12th and you need to be there. This tri-oval piece of asphalt will play host to some of the fastest automobiles on the planet. But that’s not all there is to do at this monument to auto racing. The new Ignition Garage offers fans like yourself a chance to tour the garage area. Oh, and one more thing; if you want to go for the ride of your life, book a race day NASCAR ride along with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. You’ll have adrenaline dripping out of your ears.
Kansas International Dragway – Maize, Kansas
If you only bring one thing to this racetrack make sure it’s a solid set of earplugs because this place can get loud. Not only because of the raging crowds, but the dragsters that fly down the asphalt like a SpaceX rocket. The race schedule starts in early March and doesn’t come up for a breather until the first weekend of November. Everything from motorcycle and funny car to hot rod drag races are in the cards.
Heartland Motorsports Park – Topeka, Kansas
The Heartland Motorsports Park is like a beautiful buffet for race fans: NHRA Drag Strip, dirt track oval, road course, autocross, and a motocross track. All you have to do is point your finger at the schedule and you can see the NHRA Nationals on the weekend of May 18th. Or you could join the raucous crowds on Thursday, June 28th for epic road racing on the road course. Take your pick and enjoy.
Dodge City Raceway Park – Dodge City, Kansas
This classic cow town has come a long way since the days when quick draw duels were used to settle bar tabs. Now, it’s a bustling tourist destination with an awesome racetrack. After spending the day taking in all the racing you can handle, head back to town and take in some of the sights like the Boot Hill Museum. Finish everything up with a steak at Casey’s Cowtown Club and you’ll be set.
Well, we’ve said all there is to say. The rest—the actual journey—is up to you. Pack that car full of all your road trip essentials and hit the road this summer like you’re behind the wheel of a funny car. And be sure to stop at one or two, or all five of these can’t-miss racetracks in Kansas.