Events at Road America, Plymouth

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2018 MotoAmerica: Dunlop Championship at Road America

Fri, 01 Jun - Sun, 03 Jun 2018

Jun

01 - 03

Road America

Plymouth

About Road America

Road America is a legendary motorsports complex in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. It features a 14-turn, 4.048-mile (6.514 km) permanent road course laid out on 640 park-like acres . Often called “America’s National Park of Speed,” the scenic circuit remains essentially unchanged from its 1955 layout . Clif Tufte designed the track in 1954 to keep sports car racing in the area, and the first races were held on September 10–11, 1955 (won by Phil Hill) . Road America’s length and open expanses — grass hills and wooded ridges – give fans a free-roaming experience. Bobby Rahal, a racing legend, famously calls the track “four miles of the greatest track in North America” . There is no bad seat here: spectators can walk the property and settle anywhere along the course . In fact, the facility advertises that there is “no assigned grandstand seating” and fans may bring chairs or blankets to find their own viewing spot . Road America has deep history in American racing culture. It still hosts the SCCA June Sprints – the oldest continuously run club race in the U.S. – which began in 1956 with Carroll Shelby winning that first event . Over the decades the track has seen Formula One’s U.S. Grand Prix (1956), the annual four- or six-hour sports car endurance race (the “Road America 500”), legendary drivers like Augie Pabst and Jim Hall, and countless vintage and club events . In 2021 it finally reclaimed a NASCAR Cup Series date (the first since 1956) – a “coup” for the venue . Today it bills itself as a world-class, multi-purpose motorsports park – complete with a 1-mile karting Motorplex in the infield – attracting thousands of fans every year .

Events and Programming

Road America’s calendar is packed with diverse racing weekends from spring through fall. Major professional series alternate multiple-car and motorcycle events almost every summer weekend. Typical headliners are the NTT IndyCar Series (a June Grand Prix weekend) and NASCAR (Xfinity Series, and now the Cup Series on Independence Day weekend). The schedule also includes the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in August, the MotoAmerica superbike series, the Trans-Am “Cheese Capital Cup” vintage muscle car races, and the Fanatec GT World Challenge . Club and grassroots racing also draw crowds – for example, the SCCA June Sprints in late June and various SVRA vintage races in May and September attract enthusiasts. Newer events like the GRIDLIFE Summer Apex Festival (late July) blend motorsports with live music and on-track driving experiences . Between big weekends, driving schools, kart racing, ice races and other private track rentals happen regularly. Road America mottos that its 2023 season is “loaded with weekends full of cars and motorcycles from vintage to state-of-the-art,” and in fact the 2023 calendar included MotoAmerica, IndyCar, NASCAR Xfinity, and IMSA SportsCar series races, plus GT Challenge, SCCA competitions, and multiple vintage festivals . Notably, the entire 4-mile track was resurfaced in 2023, so recent events have taken place on fresh pavement . Schedules vary year to year, but fans can generally expect a headliner weekend every 3–4 weeks in summer, often in 3-day formats (Friday practice/qualifying through Sunday main events). Practice and qualifying on Fridays are usually open to spectators with a ticket. Big events draw campers and tailgaters who make multi-day weekends of it, booking sites well ahead of time.

Tickets and Booking

Road America tickets are sold primarily through the official venue box office (online or on-site) and release in advance of each event. Season passes are popular – they cover all major race weekends and are usually offered at a discounted advance rate (often about $500–$600) before prices rise as the season approaches . Advance purchase is encouraged: Road America notes that tickets bought before the deadline (generally a week or more prior to an event) are cheaper, since gate or “day-of” prices apply once the advance deadline passes . All tickets (single-day or weekend) include access to the paddock area (cross the start/finish line into pit road walk) and free general parking on the grounds . Children 16 and under are admitted free with a paying adult at all events , making family outings affordable. Student discounts at the gate are occasionally available (be sure to ask on race weekends). Because Road America’s grounds are so large, admission tickets never officially “sell out” ; there is virtually no reserved seating capacity limit. In practice, this means even popular events remain open for general admission sales (though premium reserved grandstand seats near the finish line may sell out). Standard payment methods (cash, credit up to Visa/MC/Discover/Amex) are accepted at the track’s ticket windows . Note that all sales are final: Road America has a strict no-refund, no-exchange policy on tickets . Print-at-home tickets or mobile downloads are available to avoid shipping delays.

Seating and Layout

Road America’s viewing areas are largely open and on grass. Apart from some fixed bleachers near the main straight, there are no permanent reserved seats. The main grandstand sits beside the finish line for start/finish and pit action, but most fans stand or sit on the grassy hills. As Road America’s rules state, “Road America does not have reserved seating” – everything is first-come, first-served . Spectators stake out spots with lawn chairs, pop-up umbrellas or small portable bleachers. The venue reminds visitors that “no bad seat in the house” exists thanks to its 640-acre layout . Sightlines are excellent from hills over every corner: popular vantage points include the slopes at Turns 5–7 (the “Kettle” series of corners) and Turn 8 (the Karousel), as well as the hillside above Turn 12 leading onto the front straight. Frontstretch bleacher seats (near Turn 14) and the VIP Tower plaza provide views of the main straight, while smaller bleachers are placed near pit lane. However, most grandstands and sponsor suites are reserved for hospitality or sanction bodies. Fans are advised to bring binoculars if needed, since the track is long and wide. To help fans follow the action, large video boards have been installed at key points. Jumbo screens near the Road America Center (in the paddock) and at Turns 1, 3, 5, 7 and 12 continuously show live timing and race coverage . The track headquarters (Race Control and timing tower) overlooks the start line and has electric timing signage. A historic stone “Pagoda” tower along the front straight is used as a TV tower and VIP area. Overall, Road America has a very “outdoor rally” feel: parking holds or tailgate parties surround the circuit, and fans freely wander from one viewing area to another . Important things to note: glass containers and alcohol carry-ins are prohibited at concession areas , and large or unsecured tents may be disassembled by security if left overnight . Otherwise, seating is casual — just pick a spot and enjoy the 2.5–3 hour races with a picnic atmosphere.

Getting There and Parking

Road America’s address is **N7390 State Highway 67, Plymouth, WI 53073** (many maps still list “Elkhart Lake” as the locale). It lies roughly halfway between Milwaukee and Green Bay in the Town of Plymouth. The track is about 60 miles north of Milwaukee (1–1.5 hours by car) and about 55 miles south of Green Bay (also ~1–1.5 hours), with Milwaukee’s General Mitchell Airport and Green Bay’s Austin Straubel Airport both within day-trip distance. Appleton’s airport is slightly closer by distance (about 45–60 minutes), while Chicago O’Hare is roughly 2.5–3 hours south by I-94. No commuter rail or city bus reaches Road America; there is no fixed-route public transit to the circuit . Rideshare/taxi is an option from nearby towns (Sheboygan, Elkhart Lake or Plymouth: see below), but most visitors drive. General parking is ample and free with your event ticket . Grass lots surround the track. You may park in any open grassy area outside the paddock (except camping zones, vendor or hospitality fields) . Preferred (“VIP”) parking is offered for sale at big events – usually close to the VIP Tower near Turn 1 – for a fee (roughly $25 per day in recent years). If preferred parking is available, it can be reserved online or at the gate in advance. The official policy notes that Road America “still has general parking free outside of the paddock on open grass,” and that “preferred parking is available for purchase” . Don’t bring spectator trailers or oversized vehicles; these are generally not permitted . Drop-off/pick-up zones are at the main gate and at Gate 3; multiple entrances (Gate 3, Gate 4, etc.) allow entry around the track. During very large events, shuttle buses may run from selected overflow lots (check race-specific info in advance). No commercial bus service runs here. Taxi or Uber/Lyft is possible from Sheboygan (about 20 minutes away on I-43) or from the villages of Plymouth and Elkhart Lake (10–15 minutes). The track’s security notes that taxis from those towns are available for fans. For trips from farther, note that rideshare prices will be high – renting a car is usually best if flying in. Lastly, remember that local roads can be busy on race weekends; trailers and heavy traffic frequently slow Routes 23, 67 and county highways J/K. It’s wise to arrive early or arrive on Thursday/Friday for big weekend crowds. For large events the track may arrange off-site parking or lot attendants, but generally plan to use on-site parking and walk in.

Inside the Venue

Expect a festival-like atmosphere inside Road America. Standard stadium security applies: all spectators enter through screened gates with bag checks and metal detectors . No weapons, fireworks or drones are allowed. In particular, aerial photography with drones or kites is strictly prohibited . Pets (even on leash) are discouraged for safety; only certified service animals are permitted . Smoking is confined to designated areas (never on the pit lane or in bleachers). Once inside, merchants offer plenty of amenities. Permanent restrooms and air-conditioned offices are located in the main paddock buildings; additional portable toilets and shower trucks are distributed around the property. In fact, during major events five permanent restroom/shower complexes (with hot water) are open plus dozens of portables, and showers are free to camping guests . A merchandise/gear store (“Paddock Shop”) is located in the paddock area. It sells official Road America apparel (hats, T-shirts, jackets), as well as race essentials like ice, rain gear, hats and souvenirs . Yes, if the summer sun catches you, grab a souvenir cap and sunscreen – the Wisconsin sun can be bright even in the woods. The track also has an official mobile app (Road America App) that lets fans stream live PA commentary, timing and driver interviews on their smartphones during races . (This helps overcome occasional cell-signal crowded situations in the woods.) Wi-Fi is not generally available except perhaps in VIP areas, so plan to use data or the app for live information. Food and drink abound. The track boasts “the best quality food” among race venues, with 11 permanent concession stands and many roaming food trucks . Wisconsin staples are on every menu. For example, it’s traditional to enjoy a grilled bratwurst on a Sheboygan hard roll , cheese curds or mac ‘n’ cheese (the “Oink Mac” with brat bits is famous), and steamed corn on the cob . Local barbecue is big here: Parker John’s smoking brisket and pulled pork famously draws crowds (you can smell the hickory from a distance) . Many stands feature Wisconsin cheeses, butter burgers, RGP fries (big “Really Good Potatoes” seasoned russets) and lakeshore craft beers like New Glarus’ Spotted Cow – often the only place in the country you’ll find it on tap . Even the concession rules reinforce local ties: track policy requires that cheese be Wisconsin-made (Sargento) and ice cream from Cedar Crest (Manitowoc) . In short, expect plenty of bratwurst stands, cheese-curd fritters, funnel cakes and clamshacks around the parking field. Importantly, attendees may not bring alcohol into concession areas (open containers are banned there) , but you are free to bring a cooler to your camp or tailgate area. Tickets are laminated wristbands. Staff or volunteers are stationed at each gate and many viewing areas. They can help direct you to restrooms, first aid, lost-and-found, and other services. Lost children are usually taken to the nearest gate office (on-site phone numbers are posted). A small first aid tent with trained EMTs is typically set up in the paddock for emergencies. Race fans often bring binoculars and wear ear protection for the particularly loud corners (standing near turn 1 or in the paddock can reach 100+ dB) for safety. Beyond that, comfort is key: expect to walk several miles if you want to see multiple parts of the track. Flat-soled walking shoes or sneakers are recommended. If you plan to wander the infield, note that bicycles must be walked and personal scooters or carts are forbidden . Golf carts are available to rent (with a permit) if you need assistance getting around, but personal golf carts are not allowed except for season-pass holders with proper decals .

Nearby Amenities

The surrounding area offers a taste of rural Wisconsin hospitality. The nearest town is Plymouth (population ~8,000), about 6 miles north of the track. Plymouth dubs itself the “Cheese Capital of the World” , and downtown Mill Street has diners, pubs and taverns where you can sample local brews and grilled cheese sandwiches. If you need pre- or post-race dining, Plymouth and tiny Elkhart Lake (just a few miles, famous for its lakefront) have casual eateries: try the local supper clubs, cow-themed diners, or breweries serving Wisconsin cheese curds and sandwiches. For example, one venue noted that “cheese must be Sargento” (headquartered in Plymouth) and ice cream “must be Cedar Crest” in all food stands – a nod to area producers. Hotels and lodging range from camping to resort. Many fans stay right on the property in the picnic-style campgrounds. The track supports over 1,000 drive-right-to-your-site campsites (RV and tent) with water pump-out, and has five shower/restroom complexes on-site . Advanced camping reservations for race weekends are wise, as the best sites sell out fast. If you prefer a room, there are several motels and inns in Plymouth (a 5- to 10-minute drive) – for example, a Baymont or AmericInn by the interstate (with easy track access) . For fancier stays, Elkhart Lake has two resort hotels: The Osthoff Resort & Spa and the historic Blue Waters (recently rebranded Lake Lawn Inn) on the lakefront, about 3–5 miles from the track. ConcertHotels notes that even cabins at Plymouth Rock Camping (0.9 miles away) are available for Those seeking a roof . In Sheboygan (15–20 min south on I-43), larger hotels and shops are available if you need broader restaurant or shopping options. Within walking distance of the track, there are a few basic service stops (gas stations, farm stores) but not much else. The Road America paddock shop does sell snacks, and the nearby village of Elkhart Lake has a grocery/sandwich shop. For serious supplies (groceries, pharmacies), your best bet is Plymouth or Sheboygan. If you arrive by air, the closest major airport is Green Bay’s Austin Straubel (about 60–70 minutes away) ; Milwaukee’s Mitchell Field is about the same distance to the south. From any airport, renting a car is strongly recommended unless you are staying in Sheboygan or attractions shuttle bus (rare) is running.

What Makes This Venue Special

Road America’s unique character comes from its blend of history, scenery and scale. It remains one of the last great “old-school” road courses in North America. Unlike short ovals or stadium circuits, RA’s four-mile length and 14 diverse turns allow high speeds on long straights and dramatic elevation changes (the downhill Kettle section from Turns 5 to 7 is particularly famous). The layout has never been fundamentally altered since 1955 – no chicanes were added, no loops removed – so it retains the spirit of classic road racing . The natural Kettle Moraine surroundings (wooded hills, meadows) give it a park-like ambiance that’s often cited by drivers as calming and beautiful. In fact, Road America bills itself as “the world-renowned motorsports facility in Sheboygan County” and has become synonymous with Wisconsin racing tradition . Many legendary racing moments have happened here. IndyCar and Formula cars have roared around the Karousel in true American road-race style. NASCAR stars, after decades of waiting, finally made their mark in 2021 – Bubba Wallace’s win there became the first NASCAR Cup season opener on road course in history. IMSA’s field of prototype and GT cars is a marquee August event, giving fans a sports-car festival atmosphere. Notably, nearly every major American road racer has competed here: Roger Penske, Guy Smith, Brian Redman, Dario Franchitti, and countless others have won at RA. Even racing-curious locals love the place: there’s a genuine sense of community pride. A 2023 economic study emphasized that road racers and festivalgoers from around the country pour roughly $254 million a year into Sheboygan County’s economy – the track is not just a sports venue but a tourism engine. Locals remember that Road America started because racing on rural county roads brought crowds: its legacy is woven into the local culture. The “Cheese Capital Cup” name gifted to a recent Trans-Am event was a light-hearted tribute – Plymouth’s motto is the “Cheese Capital of the World” , after all. On an individual level, fans often rave about the experience. It’s not uncommon to see families tailgating in parking fields, campers set up campfires at night, and children racing toy cars in the grass. The concession scene is legendary (goat rides or racing simulators at Rywire?) – no, actually it’s the artisanal brats and cheese curds. Bringing food and refreshments from home is possible in the parking lots and camping areas (non-alcoholic drink coolers are fine), but many prefer to sample the local treats on-site. Finally, one easy way to feel the track’s vibe: check out the official slogan. As one AP writer noted, Road America “owns a reputation as one of the nation’s foremost road courses,” and even calls itself “America’s national park for speed” . It’s a place that even racers describe as “fabulous” to visit . These qualities – storied past, natural beauty, big crowds on a warm Midwest weekend – combine to make Road America much more than just a racetrack.

Visitor Tips and Information

- BYO Chairs/Blankets: Since there’s no assigned seating, it’s vital to arrive early and claim a good spot. Bring fold-up chairs, blankets or a small pop-up shade (gazebos are allowed if not left overnight) . Pit bleachers fill up quickly at big events, so portable seating is key. - Arrive Early: Gates typically open around 7:00 AM for race weekends . Plan extra time for parking and walking in (even if you’re right at the VIP lot, it’s a few-minute hike to the stands). Morning racing means it can be cool at the start – dress in layers. - Protect Yourself: The Wisconsin sun and racetrack noise can both be intense. Wear a hat and sunscreen for daytime, and consider earplugs or muffs (especially for kids) during loud sessions. Also bring rain gear: summer storms can roll in unexpectedly. - Food and Drink: Outside food is only partially restricted – coolers and snacks are OK in the camping and general admission areas, but can only be consumed away from open concession lines . (Concession areas forbid all outside food or drink for hygiene.) Water (plastic bottles) and snacks are useful for long days. Cash is handy, as some vendors may be slow on cards. - Children: Kids 16 and under get in free with a ticketed adult , which is great. However, there are no daycare or special kid zones. Make sure children stay within sight; crowded areas like spectator berms and paddock have fast-moving vehicles. The paddock (near the garages) is fun for kids to see the grid, but remind them that race cars have right-of-way (and bicycles must be walked there) . Leashed pets are discouraged, so plan pet care ahead or use the family parking areas where pets are less a problem. - Accessibility: Road America caters to wheelchair users and disabled patrons. Handicap parking is available in the VIP Tower lot near turn 1, allowing easier access to the front straight and paddock . Most restrooms are wheelchair-accessible . The venue allows ADA-certified service animals, but no other pets in buildings . Bringing your own mobility aid is fine on the pavements; note, however, that moving about the grass may be difficult if fields are soft. - Rules to Remember: The basics: no weapons, no overnight personal tenting if you’re not in camping with a stop, no drones, and keep fire lanes clear . Smoke detectors check all vehicles. Tailgating in parking areas is allowed, but only with responsibly extinguished charcoal (gas grills are fine) and not directly adjacent to food stands . For any questions on rules, the friendly gate staff and posted signage have details. Familiarize yourself with the track map (available on the website or app) so you know which gate your parking is nearest and where the bathrooms are located. - Contacting Others: Cell phone coverage is decent but not guaranteed everywhere. The track suggests designating a meeting spot (for example, by the tower near finish line) in case phone service is poor during the crowd weekend. An alternative is the Road America app: it not only streams audio but can show your ticket barcode and map on your phone. - Common Pitfalls: Avoid the mistake of dressing only for sun – Lake Michigan summer weather can change. Also, check traffic: during big races the only highway (I-43) often has construction slowdowns. It’s smart to check a navigation app before leaving. Don’t expect nearby restaurants to be open all night or have 24-hour service; plan your meals or reserved dinner spots in advance if the race runs late. Finally, remember that umbrellas are allowed for personal use, but if they block other people's view, staff may ask you to fold them.

What are typical ticket prices for Road America events?

Ticket prices vary by event and day. Advance adult general admission for a single race day might range roughly $40–$60, with a weekend pass $75–$100. Children 16 and under are free with a paying adult . Senior and military discounts may apply at the gate. Season passes (multi-day) cost several hundred dollars in advance. Always check the official event page for updated pricing.

How can I buy Road America tickets and when do they go on sale?

Most tickets are sold online through Road America’s official site or at the track box office. Tickets for major events typically go on sale in the fall for the next racing season. There are often advance deadlines for discounts (usually the week before an event) . You can also buy on-site on race days until the gate closes. Season pass holders get priority access to nearly all races at a set price (often $500–$600 with an early-bird discount ).

Where can I park and how much does it cost?

General parking is free with your event ticket and is spread across the grassy lots outside the paddock . You should expect to walk from your car to the infield or spectator areas. The track also offers “preferred” parking (near the main tower) for a fee at big events. Preferred spots are usually $20–$25 per day. All parking information is event-specific, so check announcements for your race weekend.

Is Road America accessible by public transportation?

No, Road America is in a rural area with no direct bus or train service . The facility is best reached by car. For visitors flying in, rental cars or private shuttles from Green Bay, Milwaukee or Chicago airports are common. On race weekends, the track occasionally runs event shuttles from local lots, but there is no local city transit serving the track. Rideshare or taxi from nearby towns (Sheboygan, Plymouth, Elkhart Lake) is possible if you can arrange it in advance.

What is the seating layout and where are the best viewing spots?

Road America has mostly general admission viewing (no assigned seats ). The only permanent grandstand is along the front straight. Best views are from grassy hills around key corners. Fans recommend spots above Turn 5–7 (the “Kettle” section) or above Turn 12, where you see cars braking hard and racing up the hill. The official guidance says there is “no bad seat in the house” . The track also provides jumbo TV screens at several turns (1, 3, 5, 7, 12) so you can watch live coverage from many vantage points .

What items are not allowed at Road America?

Basic stadium rules apply. Prohibited items include all weapons or fireworks, glass containers, and large coolers are only allowed outside concession areas. Drones or any unmanned aerial devices are banned by policy . Smoking is allowed only in designated zones. Do not reserve spots overnight with tents or canopies; any large tents left will be removed . Tailgating grills are permitted in camping and parking areas, but must be fully attended (and fires completely extinguished). The track reserves the right to adjust policies for special events, so check the event FAQ for any updates.

What food and drink options are available on site?

Road America is known as much for its food as its racing. Eleven permanent concession stands and many food trucks operate during races . You’ll find Wisconsin specialties everywhere: bratwurst sandwiches, fried cheese curds and macaroni, sweet corn, loaded fries (RGP), fish fries, burgers and creamy custard ice cream . Saint-containing stands feature local BBQ (Parker John’s) and breakfast sandwiches (“Eggers”) . Dozens of craft beers and wines are also sold. (Note: carry-in food is allowed only outside the concession lines; outside alcohol is not permitted in seating areas.) If you want a sit-down meal before or after, nearby towns have casual diners and pubs.

Is camping available at Road America and how do I reserve a site?

Yes. Road America has extensive on-site camping. There are well over 1,000 drive-up campsites (RV and tent) scattered across multiple zones around the track . Sites include trackside spots (some with 50-amp electric), non-electric campsites and overflow fields. To reserve a campsite, you must have the event ticket and camper wristband. Reservations open during the advance ticket sales period, and you can also purchase camping at the track during an event if spaces remain . Campers get full access to restrooms/showers and can tailgate at their site. (Rules like no open fires on the ground and leash requirements for pets apply.)

What accessibility features does the venue have?

Road America provides handicap parking and accessible facilities. A designated handicap parking lot is located near the VIP Tower at Turn 1 . From there, the main areas (paddock, front straight) are wheelchair-friendly. Most permanent restrooms are wheelchair-accessible . The track allows ADA-certified service animals; pets are otherwise not allowed in buildings . Staff and volunteers typically assist patrons and can recommend viewing spots or provide mobility assistance if needed. (For very specific needs, call the track ahead of the event for assistance.)

Are there any age or clothing restrictions at events?

There are no age minimums for admission – kids are welcome (and free under 17). The only legal ID restriction is drink age for on-site alcohol. Dress is casual; most fans wear shorts and T-shirts in summer. However, Wisconsin weather can be cool or rainy even in July – bring layers. Closed-toe shoes are strongly advised since you’ll be walking on gravel and grass. Some years, tracksponsored tech inspections require long pants for pit/exhibit access, but generally there is no formal dress code.

Can I bring my own food and coolers?

Yes—and no. Outside food and drink are allowed in parking and camping areas, so you can bring a picnic or cooler to your campsite or tailgate. Small coolers of snacks and water are fine in general admission areas. However, “carry-ins” are not permitted within the concession stands or seating rows . This means you cannot eat a home-cooked meal or alcoholic beverage in the paddock or at a food stand. Of course, branded sponsor tents and hospitality areas may have their own rules. In practice, most people bring some snacks and refillable drinks to keep costs down between visits to the food vendors.

What should a first-time visitor definitely not miss?

First-timers should see the front straight action from Turn 14 or the grandstand so you can watch the start, pit stops and pit lane parade. Walking up the hill to Turn 8 (the Karousel) is also a highlight — you hear and feel the cars spiral through that corner. Make sure to taste a local bratwurst and cheese curds (it truly is Wisconsin). If you have time, tour the paddock area to see the cars up close. Above all, give yourself extra time on a race day – between parking, walking, and the possibility of traffic, a 9:00am race start essentially means leaving home at 6:30–7:00 AM on a busy weekend.

Events at Road America, Plymouth

2018 MotoAmerica: Dunlop Championship at Road America

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