About Sonoma Raceway
Sonoma Raceway is a world-class road racing and drag racing complex set in Sonoma County’s vineyards. The original 2.52-mile “Carousel” road course (2.0 miles with the NASCAR “Chute” shortcut) was built in 1968 as Sears Point Raceway (www.racingcircuits.info). Over the years it has been renamed Infineon Raceway and, since 2012, Sonoma Raceway (www.racingcircuits.info). Today Sonoma is the largest motorsports facility in Northern California (www.sonomaraceway.com), sprawling over 1,600 acres with both a road course and an NHRA ¼-mile drag strip. It draws hundreds of thousands of fans (roughly 500,000 annually (www.sonomaraceway.com)) for racing, driving schools and events. The track’s unique wine-country setting and 160-foot elevation change – the greatest of any NASCAR circuit (www.sonomaraceway.com) – give it a dramatic, scenic character. In fact, nearly 4,000 sheep graze the property as a natural landscaping solution (www.sonomaraceway.com). Sonoma’s centerpiece events include major NASCAR and NHRA races, but the venue also hosts vintage car festivals, driving programs, and small-club road races (www.pressdemocrat.com) (www.racingcircuits.info).
Events and Programming
Major motorsport series headline Sonoma’s calendar. Each summer the track holds a NASCAR weekend – the Toyota/Save Mart 350 (NASCAR Cup Series) on Sunday and the Sonoma 250 (NASCAR Xfinity Series) on Saturday (www.sonomaraceway.com). NASCAR Camping World Truck races are often on the same bill. In July, Sonoma usually hosts the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals drag meet (Nitro Funny Cars, Top Fuel, Pro Stock, etc.). Other annual or recurring events include sports car series (like GT World Challenge America and Trans Am in spring), the Ferrari Challenge race, and charity/endurance events (such as the 24 Hours of Lemons in winter). Driving schools, go-kart leagues and amateur club races (SCCA, NASA and others) run year-round on weekdays and off-season. (Sonoma also hosted IndyCar road races from 2012–2018, and there have been occasional vintage car festivals.)
- NASCAR Cup & Xfinity Series: The headline event is the Toyota/Save Mart 350 Cup race each June (www.sonomaraceway.com), supported by the Xfinity (Sonoma 250) and Truck Series. This is Sonoma’s biggest annual draw, and the only major NASCAR road race in Northern California.
- NHRA Drag Racing: The DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals (at the quarter-mile drag strip) typically runs mid-summer. Top Fuel, Funny Car and other national-class drag races entertain fans.
- Sports Car & Club Races: Sonoma attracts GT/endurance events (GT World Challenge, Pirelli GT, Trans Am, etc.) plus regional series like Porsche and Ferrari one-make races. Vintage car and historic race festivals have also been featured.
- Specialty Events: Youth STEM and eco-racing competitions (e.g. Shell Eco-marathon), plus local track days and car shows, round out the schedule. (Note: planned rock concerts and festivals were proposed in the mid-2010s but ultimately dropped; Sonoma remains focused on motorsports.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Sonoma Raceway events are sold through the official Sonoma Raceway website or box office (and authorized outlets) – there is no box-office queue selling general tickets on race day. Major events like the NASCAR weekend often sell out, so it’s best to buy early when tickets are released (often several months ahead). Ticket prices vary by event and seating tier, but for NASCAR events typical single-day reserved seat prices range roughly from around $100 up (premium seating goes higher). Sonoma Raceway offers several pricing tiers and discounts: for example, NASCAR Cup Series tickets are just $10 for kids 12 & under (www.sonomaraceway.com), and Saturday tickets are often free for kids. College students and military/first responders also get special rates, and group tickets can be arranged.
For big events, Sonoma sells single-day and multi-day (weekend) passes. In addition, separate camping/RV passes must be purchased for on-site camping (these are “all-inclusive” 4-day campground passes (www.sonomaraceway.com)). Tickets are digital/electronic only – you will download them via the official Sonoma Raceway app or website on your smartphone (www.sonomaraceway.com). Sonoma Raceway’s refund policy follows Speedway Motorsports’ rules: tickets are nonrefundable (www.sonomaraceway.com), but if a race is postponed by weather your ticket remains valid for the rescheduled date (SMI’s Weather Guarantee provides credit toward a future race if you cannot attend) (www.sonomaraceway.com).
Seating and Layout
Sonoma Raceway’s seating is a mix of reserved grandstands, premium suites, and open general-admission areas. The main grandstand along pit road faces the start/finish line, giving views of the frontstretch and pit action. There are large bleachers at Turn 3 and concrete terraces at other corners (Turns 2, 3, 7, 9) where a seat cushion is recommended (www.sonomaraceway.com). Notably, the “Real. Strong. Humboldt Sawmill Redwood Deck” is a new covered grandstand above Turn 2 – a 135-foot long redwood deck with 148 seats that offers panoramic views of the track and valley (www.sonomaraceway.com). Premium ticket holders can enjoy the Turn 1 Club and Turn 3 Club suites (with indoor/outdoor lounges, catering and private restrooms) (www.sonomaraceway.com) (www.sonomaraceway.com). General admission fans may sit on grassy hillsides, especially around Turns 2–3, for a more relaxed picnic atmosphere. (The course used by NASCAR is the 1.99-mile “Chute” configuration; sports cars and motorcycles typically run the full 2.52-mile layout.)
Getting There and Parking
Sonoma Raceway is located at 29355 Arnold Drive, just off State Highway 121 in Sonoma (about 6 miles southeast of Santa Rosa) (www.sonomaraceway.com). The two main entrances (Gate 1 and Gate 7) are both on Arnold Drive. For major events, Gate 1 handles paid parking pass holders while Gate 7 leads to the large free general-admission parking area (www.sonomaraceway.com) . On weekends, plenty of parking is available in the open lots and hillside turn lots. RVs and campers should pull into the designated campground area (advance reservation required).
Most fans drive in: major approach routes include Hwy 101 from the south or north, then east on Hwy 37 or Hwy 121. Ridesharing is allowed, with a designated drop-off/pick-up zone at Gate 6 on Hwy 121 near the track. Public transit options are limited – Sonoma County Transit local buses and regional shuttles can get you as close as nearby Parkville, but the final leg will require a taxi or rideshare. (Some fans use charter buses or Golden Gate Transit to Novato plus taxi to reach Sonoma.) Expect heavy traffic and long lines entering/exiting during big events, so arriving 1–2 hours before start is wise.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, expect standard security screening. Sonoma Raceway has multiple ticket gates and entry lanes (your e-ticket in the app will be scanned). All transactions inside are cashless (debit/credit only) (www.sonomaraceway.com), though most concession stands accept cards. Throughout the 1,600-acre facility you’ll find numerous food and drink outlets – from stadium-style concession stands (serving burgers, hot dogs, beer and wine) to specialty vendors in the fan zones. Note that while coolers of food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed (soft-sided only, see below), alcohol cannot be carried into seating areas (it is sold at stands and allowed in campground areas only). Permanent restrooms (with ADA-accessible stalls) and portable toilets are located near every grandstand and lot.
Sonoma Raceway also has a fan zone area outside the main stands with sponsor displays, live music and kids’ activities during major events. Team merchandise trailers and the Sonoma Raceway gift shop line the midway, so you can buy hats, shirts and memorabilia for your favorite series. Cell phone service may be spotty in the grandstands due to crowding, so plan ahead (the SonomaRaceway mobile app provides maps, schedules and parking info). Finally, remember the raceway’s environment: it can be chilly and breezy in the morning, warming to strong sun by afternoon. Bring sunscreen, a hat and ear protection (engines are loud) – many long-time fans even recommend earmuffs for kids. A portable folding cushion is handy for the hard concrete terrace seats (www.sonomaraceway.com).
Nearby Amenities
The Sonoma Valley offers plenty to do before or after race events. The town of Sonoma (about 10 minutes east) has a charming historic plaza lined with restaurants and tasting rooms. Notable nearby dining includes the Michelin-recognized El Dorado Kitchen and The Girl & The Fig, or casual wine-country grills and cafés. For breweries and burgers, Santa Rosa (7 miles north) and Rohnert Park (2 miles south) have chain hotels and family eateries. Camping and RV parks fill up for race weekends – options like Rohnert Park’s golf course resorts or the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn allow recovery after late-night races. If you’re staying local, allow extra travel time: highways 101 and 121 can back up around showtime, and late-night rideshare or taxi availability is limited. Staying near the track (even an air BnB or campground) can save a long drive home.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sonoma Raceway’s blend of high-octane racing and wine-country charm sets it apart. The hilly, scenic layout was carved out of old Sonoma farmland, and even today the iconic champion’s trophy is a handcrafted wine goblet (www.sonomaraceway.com) – a nod to the region’s vineyard heritage missed at any other speedway. The track’s big elevation swings (160 feet between crest and valley (www.sonomaraceway.com)) and forested surroundings make for a visually striking spectator experience. Steak of traditions include the “Redwood Deck” grandstand (built of locally harvested timber) and its flock of sheep keeping the grasses trimmed (www.sonomaraceway.com). Sonoma is also known for innovation: it has solar panels to offset power consumption and continually adds amenities (kid zones, covered VIP boxes, etc.) to stay ahead of fans’ changing tastes. In short, it’s a unique NASCAR road course where the wine-country “good living” lifestyle meets world-class racing.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Sonoma Raceway strives to be ADA-friendly. Guests with handicapped placards should enter through Gate 1; staff will direct you to reserved accessible parking (www.sonomaraceway.com). Accessible seating and restrooms are available in each grandstand and suite area. Service animals (seeing-eye dogs) are allowed throughout; no other pets are permitted except in camping areas (on leash).
What to Bring: Essentials include your digital ticket (ready on the SonomaRaceway app), sunscreen, a hat, and layers (mornings can be cool). The venue allows up to two small bags or backpacks per person (max 18″×18″×14″ each) (www.sonomaraceway.com). Soft-sided coolers (no larger than 14″×14″×14″) filled with food and sealed drinks are welcome (www.sonomaraceway.com) (www.sonomaraceway.com). Pack bottled water, snacks and ear protection – the engines can exceed 100 dB, especially in the grandstands. A portable folding seat pad is highly recommended, as some grandstands are hard concrete (www.sonomaraceway.com). Charging cables, sunscreen reapply, and cashless payment cards are handy.
What Not to Bring: For safety, Sonoma Raceway prohibits weapons, fireworks, drones, glass containers, alcohol, aerosols (aside from sunscreen/bug spray), lawn chairs with legs, large umbrellas, mini-bikes, skateboards, and Confederate flags (www.sonomaraceway.com). Selfie-sticks, tripods and wagons are also banned. Cooling umbrellas can’t be opened in seating areas. If you have items prohibited you can usually return them to your car or surrender them at the gate – take only what’s allowed to avoid delays.
Additional Tips: Gates open early (as early as 6:00 AM for NASCAR weekends) (www.sonomaraceway.com). Arrive with ample time to park and reach your seats before races start. Listening to live TV/radio coverage is possible on a local station or the raceway’s FM broadcast in the stands. Keep an eye on the weather – if rain is forecast, remember your ticket can be used on the rescheduled date (no cash refunds). Finally, be courteous: Sonoma is very family-friendly (most fans are here for a day-long picnic atmosphere), so avoid foul language or rowdy behavior. Treat other spectators as you would want to be treated, and ask staff if you need assistance – Sonoma Raceway officials do their best to make the experience safe and enjoyable for all.
How do I purchase tickets to Sonoma Raceway events?
Buy tickets only through Sonoma Raceway’s official channels – the track’s box office, website or authorized sellers. For big events like NASCAR or NHRA weekends, tickets usually go on sale months in advance. It’s wise to book early for popular dates. Tickets are digital-only and delivered via the Sonoma Raceway app. Beware of unofficial resellers, as Sonoma’s policy is no refunds (www.sonomaraceway.com).
What are ticket prices and are there discounts for kids or groups?
Ticket prices depend on the event and seating level. For example, a general admission or back-stand seat for the NASCAR Cup race is often in the low hundreds. Sonoma Raceway offers deep discounts for children: NASCAR Cup Series tickets are just $10 for kids 12 & under (www.sonomaraceway.com) (and kids get in free on Saturday). College tickets, military/first-responder discounts and group packages are also available – check the Sonoma official site for current offers.
What is the address of Sonoma Raceway and how do I get there?
Sonoma Raceway’s address is 29355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476 (www.sonomaraceway.com). It’s accessible via Highway 121 (Jimtown Road) just north of Hwy 37. Map apps will recognize the track location. Directions from San Francisco usually take US-101 N and CA-37 E to CA-121 N. From Sacramento, use I-80 W to Highway 37. Allow extra travel time on event days as roads can be congested.
Where can I park at Sonoma Raceway and is there a fee?
Sonoma Raceway has large parking lots around the track. For races, Gate 1 (the main entrance) is used by fans who purchase reserved parking passes, and Gate 7 leads to a free general admission lot (www.sonomaraceway.com) . Most race weekends offer ample free parking in the lots or along the track’s access roads. RVs and campers park in the designated campground area (advance reservation required). Shuttles often run between remote lots and the grandstands on major race days.
Are there shuttles or public transit to the raceway?
Public transit options are limited. Sonoma County Transit buses run nearby but do not drop you at the gates – you would need to transfer to a local taxi or rideshare. During major events (NASCAR weekends, NHRA), the raceway provides free shuttle buses to circulate between parking fields and grandstands. Many fans simply drive. If using Uber/Lyft, head to the dedicated drop-off zone at Gate 6 on Highway 121 for pick-up after the race.
What seating options does Sonoma Raceway have, and where are the best seats?
Sonoma’s seating includes main grandstands on the finish line, bleachers at Turn 3, concrete terraces at other turns, and grassy general-admission areas. Premium seats include the Turn 1 Club and Turn 3 Club (enclosed suites with food and private restrooms) (www.sonomaraceway.com) (www.sonomaraceway.com). The new Turn 2 Redwood Deck (148 seats) offers an open-air covered grandstand with panoramic views (www.sonomaraceway.com). Many fans consider the Turn 3 stands and Redwood Deck to have excellent views of multiple corners, while general-admission hillsides (especially near Turn 2/3) let families spread out and picnic.
Is Sonoma Raceway ADA friendly and accessible?
Yes. Sonoma Raceway provides accessible parking, seating and facilities. Fans displaying a disabled placard should enter through Gate 1 and park in the reserved ADA lots (www.sonomaraceway.com). There are wheelchair-accessible seats in each grandstand. Accessible restrooms and services are available on-site. Only service/assistance animals (no pets) are allowed inside the gates on race days (www.sonomaraceway.com), though pets can be kept in the campground (on leash).
What items are prohibited at Sonoma Raceway?
For safety and comfort, Sonoma Raceway bans weapons, glass containers, fireworks, drones, large umbrellas and large lawn chairs (chairs must be armless or have short legs) (www.sonomaraceway.com). Also prohibited are drugs, polymers (airhorns, lasers, etc.), confederate flags, and unauthorized vendors. Only soft-sided coolers (≤14″ each) and up to two small bags per person are allowed (www.sonomaraceway.com). Pack being prepared by reading the official policy – you can surrender or return banned items at the gate.
Can I bring a cooler or any food into the venue?
Yes, Sonoma Raceway permits small soft coolers (maximum 14″×14″×14″) for food and non-alcoholic drinks (www.sonomaraceway.com). You may bring snacks, sandwiches and bottled water. Hard-sided or large coolers are not allowed. Inside the track, many food stands offer concessions, but bringing your own picnic gear (blanket and reusable containers) is practical for families who want to eat CA-free food while enjoying the races.
Does Sonoma Raceway offer camping or RV parking?
Yes. Sonoma Raceway has an on-site campground for weekend events. You can purchase a multi-day camping pass (RV or tent) directly from the raceway, which covers Thursday–Sunday of race weekends (www.sonomaraceway.com). The campground has water and electric hookup sites (limited) and many dry sites. Quiet hours (typically 11 PM–8 AM) are enforced. This is a popular option, so reserve early for NASCAR or major events.
What should I bring and wear to Sonoma Raceway?
Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing. Mornings can be cool and afternoons sunny, so dress in layers. Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for sun exposure. Good walking shoes are a must on the uneven, hilly terrain. Essential items to bring include ear protection (racing is loud), a small seat cushion for hard benches (www.sonomaraceway.com), and a refillable water bottle (water fountains are available). Your race ticket should already be loaded digitally on your phone. Also, pack snacks or picnic items if you plan to eat your own food.
What is the spectator capacity of Sonoma Raceway?
Fixed seating at Sonoma is on the order of 45,000–50,000, but NASCAR race weekends regularly draw much larger crowds since fans also occupy grassy hillsides. In fact, media estimates for a packed Cup race day range from 70,000 to 95,000 attendees (www.pressdemocrat.com). (During COVID restrictions, limited plans pegged 15,667 as 33% capacity (www.pressdemocrat.com), implying a full capacity around 47,000.) Many fans also car-camp or tailgate on the property.
Are concerts or non-racing events held at Sonoma Raceway?
Sonoma Raceway is primarily a motorsports venue. Although the track looked into staging music festivals around 2014–15, those plans were ultimately abandoned. Today you will mainly find racing events; there are no regular concerts at the raceway. (However, during NASCAR weekends there is often live entertainment in the fan/festival zones and sponsor areas.)
What happens if a race is rained out or delayed?
Sonoma Raceway follows Speedway Motorsports’ rain policies. If a NASCAR race is postponed by weather, your ticket is automatically valid for the new date (no cash refund) (www.sonomaraceway.com). If a rescheduled event still cannot be attended, SMI’s Weather Guarantee allows ticket credit for a future Cup race at any SMI track (www.sonomaraceway.com). Check announcements from Sonoma Raceway after races held in questionable weather for exact details.
Can I bring my cell phone and camera into Sonoma Raceway?
Yes. You may use your smartphone and personal cameras at Sonoma Raceway for personal, non-commercial purposes. There are no general bans on cameras, though professional video recording gear without permission is not allowed. Note that selfie sticks and tripods are prohibited for safety (www.sonomaraceway.com). Cell phone photos and LED flashlights are fine. (We recommend taking plenty of photos of the racing!)
Are kids allowed at Sonoma Raceway events?
Yes – Sonoma Raceway is a family-friendly venue. Children of all ages are welcome to attend races and are often seen in the grandstands or tailgating with families. As noted, kids 12 and under attend major race events very cheaply (around $10) and on some days are free (www.sonomaraceway.com). Just remember: the environment is very loud and crowded, so supervising young children is important, and please consider ear protection if you bring kiddos.
What food and drink options are available inside Sonoma Raceway?
Numerous concession stands are spread around the track, offering typical stadium fare (burgers, hot dogs, nachos) as well as local specialties like barbecue and craft beer or wine. There are also vendor booths and food trucks in the fan zone area with sandwiches, tacos, and more. If you need something, you’ll usually find a stand within a short walk. Note that you may not bring your own alcohol into the seating areas, but plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are sold on-site.
Is smoking allowed at Sonoma Raceway?
Smoking is not allowed in the covered grandstands, suites, or most seating areas during events (as per the Grandstands’ “no smoking” notice). However, there are usually designated smoking areas in the campgrounds and outside spectator zones. (Always look for marked smoking sections or ask staff.)
Does Sonoma Raceway have any dress code or age restrictions?
No strict dress code is enforced at Sonoma Raceway. Fans typically wear casual, comfortable clothing (jeans, shorts, team T-shirts, hats). We recommend layers for temperature changes and sturdy shoes due to hiking around the hills. There are no age restrictions for general events – people of all ages attend races. Some special nightclub events or hospitality suites might have age limits (e.g. 21+ bars), so be aware of those occasions.
Are there any local accommodations near Sonoma Raceway?
Yes. The nearest city is Rohnert Park (2 miles south), which has hotels like Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and standard chains (Marriott, Holiday Inn, etc.) and several restaurants. Santa Rosa (7 miles north) offers a full range of lodging and dining. The town of Sonoma (10 miles east) has boutique inns and renowned restaurants. For race weekends, many fans book early or even camp on-site. Always plan your stay well in advance for major events, as local rooms fill up quickly.