About I-80 Speedway
I-80 Speedway was a 4/10-mile semi-banked dirt oval located just off Interstate 80 in Greenwood, Nebraska . Completed in 1994 , it became one of the region’s best-known race tracks. The facility was promoted for two decades by the Kosiski family (longtime Nebraska racing drivers). In its inaugural season the track ran sprint cars (including 410 sprints) and multiple stock car classes on weekend nights . The speedway even hosted Nebraska’s only ARCA stock-car race in 1995 , and later drew national dirt tours such as the UMP Summer Nationals, ASCS and World of Outlaws sprints, and many others . Its signature crown-jewel event was the Imperial Tile Silver Dollar Nationals (Lucas Oil Late Models and US Modifieds), which featured multi-day racing and high purse payouts .
Over the years the property evolved. It was briefly renamed “Nebraska Raceway Park” in the early 2000s under new ownership , and a 1/8-mile go-kart track (Little Sunset Speedway) was added behind the grandstand in 2004 . In 2005 the main oval’s name reverted to I-80 Speedway . The track continued weekly NASCAR Whelen All-American Series events through the 2010s . However, in early 2023 the land was sold and the speedway closed . By 2024 the old race grounds were redeveloped into a large insurance auto-auction complex . In short, I-80 Speedway was a longtime local landmark for dirt-track fans, known for exciting races and big events, from 1994 until its closing in 2022.
Events and Programming
The racing season at I-80 Speedway typically ran from spring through early fall. Nearly every weekend featured action-filled programs, often starting with warm-up heats and culminating in feature races. Weekly classes included Super Late Models, Modifieds, Sport Mods, Stock Cars and Hobby Stocks, each racing multiple heats and a feature event. The schedule also included specialty shows. Its crown-jewel was the annual Silver Dollar Nationals in July – a multi-day late-model race co-sanctioned by the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series and US Modified Touring Series with a top prize on the order of $50,000 . Other marquee events included spring and fall specials such as the Midwest Fall Brawl, Cornhusker Classic and Show-Me 100, plus high-profile sprint car nights (for example, a World of Outlaws Sprint Car event in October). These shows often featured national touring teams and drew large crowds. Between big events, the track ran its weekly NASCAR-sanctioned races (Whelen All-American Series) on Friday or Saturday nights . In the final year of operation (2022), I-80 completed a full schedule that culminated in its 12th Silver Dollar Nationals (July 20–23) and last season finales in early October . (After 2022 no more races took place, as the track closed in early 2023 .)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for I-80 Speedway events were sold directly by the track. Fans could purchase race-day tickets or passes at the speedway’s office or at the gates. In early seasons special offers were available – for example, in 2022 the track sold a season pass for $350 (covering nearly every race except two specials) . Major events had advance ticketing: the Silver Dollar Nationals offered pre-sold of multi-day grandstand packages and pit passes (seat renewals typically opened each March) . Otherwise, day-of tickets were available at the box office. Prices were generally modest: typical weekly races charged a low admission (adults often around $10–$15), while big weekend shows were higher. Families often had child or youth discounts for regular nights. Arriving early helped avoid long lines (season-pass holders could skip the gates ). Note that since 2023 no new tickets are being sold – all racing has ceased.
Seating and Layout
The track’s lodging featured open-air bleacher grandstands along the front straightaway (and turning into the adjacent corners). These aluminum benches provided tiered views of the entire 0.4-mile dirt oval . There were no private suites – seating was essentially general-admission. Pit and service areas occupied the infield side opposite the stands, separated by catch fencing. Behind the main grandstand sat the Little Sunset kart track (a small oval for go-karts), and a motocross track once lay beyond one end. Track lighting (Musco floodlights) illuminated night races around the circuit . The stands were semi-steep, giving good sightlines, but they had no roof cover – shade was minimal. Wheelchair-accessible spaces were mostly front-row breaks and aisles near the main gate ramps. Many fans brought seat cushions or lawn chairs for comfort, and could also watch from the fenced-pitside areas if permitted. (*For the Silver Dollar, pre-reserved numbered seats occasionally were sold in the front rows by package.) As a reminder, these seating details applied when the track was operating – the grandstands have since been dismantled after closure.
Getting There and Parking
I-80 Speedway was located at 13909 238th Street, Greenwood, NE . This puts it just north of I-80 at Exit 420 (one exit west of Mahoney State Park). Drivers from Lincoln or Omaha would take the Interstate to Greenwood and follow signage to the track (on the north side of the freeway) . There was no local public transit; virtually all spectators arrived by car. On-site parking was ample: a free gravel lot sat adjacent to the ticket gate, with dedicated handicapped spaces right at the front . General car parking was free, while a limited number of “VIP” parking spaces (near the gate) and an RV/camping area could be rented for a fee . Because large events could fill the lot, organizers advised arriving early. (Rideshare pickups typically had to occur on the road outside, since Greenwood had no official shuttle service.)
Inside the Venue
After entering through the main gate, spectators found a lively pit-and-paddock atmosphere. Gear checks (for bags) were minimal compared to larger stadiums. Directly behind the grandstands ran the concession concourse. Vendors here sold classic race-track fare – cheeseburgers, hot dogs, pizza, fries, hot pretzels, popcorn and similar – along with soft drinks and beer for adults. Outside food wasn’t widely advertised, so most fans bought on-site snacks. Permanent restrooms (plus some portable toilets) were located at each end of the grandstand. The speedway also had a merchandise outlet; for example, in the final season it sold “Finale” T-shirts and hoodies commemorating the track’s last year . A small playground area existed behind the stands for children . There was no fan Wi-Fi, and cellphone service could be spotty, so public announcements kept fans informed of lineup changes. Visitors needed to bring cash or cards for food – (an on-site ATM might be available but lines could be long). Because it was an outdoor arena, one should dress for the elements: bring sunscreen, hats or a jacket for cooler nights.
Nearby Amenities
Greenwood itself is a very small town with only basic services: a gas station/convenience store (with a quick-serve food counter) and a couple of local eateries. For more options one goes to nearby towns. The village of Ashland – just a 10-minute drive east on I-80 – offers several chain motels (such as Super 8, Comfort Inn, etc.) and restaurants (steak houses, diners, and bars). It also has groceries and shops. Lincoln is about 20 minutes north via Highway 77 and I-80. As a city of 300,000+, Lincoln provides a full range of hotels, fast-food outlets, steakhouses, pizza places, breweries, and nightlife. Many fans would drive into Lincoln for pre-race dinner or stay overnight there (especially for major weekends). Late-night rideshares (Uber/Lyft) work in Lincoln if you need a lift back, but keep in mind the racetrack muster ended around 10–11pm, by which time odds of finding a ride increase farther out.
What Makes This Venue Special
For dirt-track enthusiasts, I-80 Speedway had a unique blend of small-town charm and big-race excitement. The oval’s history and location were distinctive. It was one of Nebraska’s premier dirt ovals – hosting everything from backyard hobby stock races to nationally-sanctioned late-model tours. Fans remember it for exciting, multi-class race cards and a friendly community vibe. The Silver Dollar Nationals alone gave it a special status – a prime summer show with a five-figure winner’s prize that drew drivers from across the Midwest. Equally notable was the Kosiski family’s role: owners Steve and Joe Kosiski (legendary local drivers) promoted the track for decades, making it a family-style operation. Cape Elizabeth I-80 Speedway’s events even drew media attention when it closed, reflecting its impact: local news outlets ran stories on the iconic facility’s 2022 farewell . In short, I-80’s significance lay in its long tradition and community roots – it brought high-level dirt racing to southeast Nebraska and became a beloved piece of local motorsports history.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The first few rows of the grandstand were wheelchair-accessible, with ramps from the parking lot. The speedway had designated handicapped parking in front . Facilities supported ADA needs in the seating area and restrooms. If you require assistance, arriving early or contacting track staff on race day helped secure an appropriate spot.
What to Bring: Prepare for an outdoor event. Wear ear protection (racing engines are loud) and bring sunscreen or hats for daytime heat. Pack a light jacket or hoodie for the evening chill. Since the seating was bench-style, many fans brought seat cushions or a small lawn chair. Families often brought binoculars to see distant track action. A cash wallet is handy for buying food, since the track’s concession booths accepted cash and cards. (Sometimes an ATM was on site, but lines could be long.) If you need bottled water or snacks, you could bring them – only large coolers and glass bottles were restricted.
Venue Rules: Standard rules applied, similar to other racing venues. Prohibited items included outside alcohol, fireworks, weapons, and large backpacks or coolers. Smoking generally was permitted only in designated outside areas (not in the stands). Photography and video recording from the seats were fine for personal use (hundreds of fans took photos each week). Re-entry policy depended on the night (ask at entry); often you could exit and re-enter with your ticket stub. Pets (other than service animals) were not allowed on the grounds.
Families: Children were welcome. On most race nights, young kids (often under 12) were admitted free or at a reduced price with a paying adult. The atmosphere was casual and family-friendly. A playground behind the grandstand entertained kids between races , and a “kid zone” or autograph session was occasionally offered at major events. That said, keep an eye on children around safety fences and the pit area, as race cars and equipment move through those zones. Always supervise young children in the grandstands, since they are open benches.
Other Tips: Try to arrive at least one hour before the first race. This gives time to park, buy tickets or passes, and find seats (or see hot laps). Watch the track PA for any schedule changes (races usually ran rain-or-shine, but heavy rain could postpone an event). After the final race, fan traffic can back up onto I-80; patience is key, or wait after the crowds leave. Cell phone coverage can be spotty, so if meeting friends, pick a clear landmark (like the entrance or concession stand) as a rendezvous. Above all, come with an appetite for racing – get close to the action, enjoy the racecars up loud, and you’ll grasp why I-80 Speedway earned its place in local racing lore.
What is the address of I-80 Speedway and how do I get there?
I-80 Speedway’s address is 13909 238th Street, Greenwood, NE 68366 . It’s just north of Interstate 80 at Exit 420 (one exit west of Mahoney State Park) . To reach it, take I-80 to Greenwood and follow the signs to the dirt oval (north side of the freeway). Visitors generally arrive by car, as no direct public bus goes to the track.
Is there parking available at I-80 Speedway, and was it free?
Yes – the speedway had a large on-site parking area near the main gate. General spectator parking was free . ADA parking spaces were marked in front for disabled patrons . Paid parking was only for a few “VIP” or RV spots, which were available for a fee. On busy nights the lot could fill up, so arriving early was recommended.
Is public transportation or rideshare available to reach the speedway?
No (direct transit). Greenwood is rural, so there is no public bus or train to the speedway. The closest city with transit is Lincoln (about 15 miles north). Even rideshare apps (Uber/Lyft) typically do not serve the Greenwood area, especially late at night. In practice, everyone drove or carpooled in. If you do request a rideshare, you’d likely be picked up/dropped off at an on-highway location near the exit ramp rather than inside the track grounds.
How much do tickets cost for events at I-80 Speedway?
Ticket prices varied by event but were generally affordable. Regular weekly race nights charged a low admission fee (often around $10–$15 for adults). Major events were higher: for example, the annual Silver Dollar Nationals had a larger price and multi-day pass packages. In 2022 a season pass (covering nearly all events) went for $350 , which illustrates that individual race tickets were significantly cheaper. Families with kids could usually expect reduced child pricing or special promotions for smaller shows.
Where and how can I buy tickets or season passes for I-80 Speedway events?
All ticket sales were handled directly by the I-80 Speedway office. There was no external box office system. You could purchase advance tickets or season passes by calling or visiting the speedway office, or simply buy at the gate on race day. For example, in 2022 the full-season pass was sold only through the office before the season . Special event tickets (like multi-day Silver Dollar packages) were also available via the track office or at the gate upon availability. On busy nights, having a season pass let you skip the main ticket line .
Did I-80 Speedway have any reserved or VIP seating areas?
The seating was almost entirely bleacher-style general admission. There were no luxury suites or covered VIP boxes. However, “reserved” spots existed in practice: for big events, fans could buy reserved seats (with numbered rows) in the grandstand or purchase pit passes to get closer to the action. Also, the track sold a small number of premium parking spaces near the entrance (VIP parking) for an extra fee . In short, if by VIP you mean better seats, those were just the front rows or early-arrival seating rather than a separate lounge.
Where are the best seats or viewing spots at I-80 Speedway?
The grandstands on the front straightaway gave a full view of the oval, so any row along there was good. Generally, middle rows provided a balanced view of all turns. The very front rows (near the fence) offer the closest view of the cars – many fans preferred tagging a front-row seat or standing by the fence for an immersive experience. Some fans also sat on the grass berm behind the stands for a more relaxed view. For reserved events (like Silver Dollar Nationals), specific numbered seats could be pre-booked at the table. In any case, arriving early guaranteed the best choice of seats.
Did I-80 Speedway offer accessible seating and facilities?
Yes. The speedway provided ADA-accessible seating in the front rows of the grandstand and ramp access from the handicap parking area . There were also wheelchair-friendly restrooms on site. If you needed assistance, arriving a bit early or asking a staff member would help secure a suitable spot. The racing cha... Note: after closure, these facilities are no longer in use at the speedway.
Are food and drink provided inside, and can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Yes, I-80 Speedway had concession stands behind the grandstands selling typical race-day food: hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, pizza, popcorn and similar items. Cold drinks and beer were available as well. Outside food wasn’t really encouraged – the policy was to allow small personal snacks and water, but large coolers or outside alcohol were prohibited. In short, plan to purchase from the on-site vendors for meals and beverages (they also had soda and ice cream). If you have dietary needs, it’s safest to eat beforehand or bring minimal supplies that fit under a seat.
What items are prohibited for entry at I-80 Speedway?
The speedway enforced common safety rules. Prohibited items included: outside alcohol, weapons of any kind, fireworks or sparklers, and large backpacks or coolers. Glass bottles and laser pointers were not allowed either. Generally anything that could disrupt safety or other fans was blocked. Small bags, cameras and personal items like baby strollers were fine. All bags could be searched on entry. If in doubt, leave large cloth bags and stationary items at home.
Can I take photographs or videos from the stands at I-80 Speedway?
Yes – casual photography and videography for personal use were allowed (and common). Fans regularly used cameras and phones to capture the racing action from the stands. There were no hard bans on taking pictures or short videos of the race. (However, professional camera equipment or filming intended for broadcast would require special permission.)
Was smoking permitted inside the speedway?
Smoking was not allowed in the seating sections. As in most venues, smoking (including e-cigarettes) was restricted to designated outdoor areas behind the stands. If you smoked, you would need to step away from the audience area, usually past the ticket gate or in a marked zone by the concession stands. Always follow any posted no-smoking signs when at the track.
Are children allowed at I-80 Speedway, and did they get in free?
Absolutely – I-80 was family-friendly and children were allowed. Typically, the track offered free or discounted admission for younger kids on most nights. For example, children under a certain age (often around 12) often did not need a full-price ticket when accompanied by an adult, though policies varied by event. Races were a popular outing for families, and there was even a playground behind the stands for kids . Parents should just supervise kids around the pits and fences for safety.
Can I bring my pet to I-80 Speedway?
No. Except for trained service animals, pets (dogs, cats, etc.) were not allowed at I-80 Speedway. The racing environment is loud and crowded, so judges did not permit animals. Make arrangements for your pet at home. If you have a service animal, check in at the gate so staff can guide you to a suitable seating area.
What types of racing events were held at I-80 Speedway?
I-80 Speedway was a multi-class dirt track. Its weekly shows included Super Late Models, Modifieds, Stock Cars and Sport Mods racing in feature events. It also hosted a variety of special series: for example, its marquee Silver Dollar Nationals used Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt cars and US Modifieds. Sprint car tours (such as ASCS and World of Outlaws) rolled in for big shows, and 360 Sprint cars (Malvern Bank series) were common on the schedule. In short, fans could see everything from hobby-stock beaters up to national-level late-model and sprint-car competition.
When was the racing season at I-80 Speedway?
Racedays were held from late spring through early fall. Typically the season kicked off around April or May and ran into September or October (weather permitting). The peak of the season was summer, when special events like the Silver Dollar Nationals (in July) were scheduled. The speedway did not run in winter since snow, cold and rain would halt dirt racing. Note that since 2023 the speedway has stopped all racing (it operated from 1994–2022).
Is I-80 Speedway still open and holding races?
No. I-80 Speedway closed after the 2022 racing season. The owners announced that 2022 would be the final year of racing , and the land was sold in early 2023 . All track equipment and stands were auctioned, and the facility has been converted into a vehicle auction complex. In other words, there are currently no racing events scheduled at the old I-80 Speedway site.
What is the Silver Dollar Nationals?
The Silver Dollar Nationals was I-80 Speedway’s premier annual race weekend. Held in late July each year, it was a multi-night Super Late Model event with national touring sanction. It drew the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series and US Modified Touring Series together in one big show. The “Crown Jewel” status meant a very large prize – in recent years the winner’s purse was on the order of $50,000 . Fans could buy weekend admissions, camping and multi-day grandstand seats exclusively for Silver Dollar. It was the highlight of the season and why some fans traveled long distances to watch.
Why was it called I-80 Speedway?
The name comes from the track’s location right off Interstate 80. Greenwood’s speedway sat adjacent to I-80 (Exit 420), so the I-80 designation was a convenient geographic reference. In fact, the road sign on I-80 pointed to the track. The venue’s official name briefly changed to “Nebraska Raceway Park” in the early 2000s under different ownership , but in 2005 it reclaimed the I-80 Speedway name to reflect the interstate frontage. In short, it’s called I-80 Speedway because you reach it directly from the highway.
