Events at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, Wampum

About Pittsburgh International Race Complex

Pittsburgh International Race Complex (often called “Pitt Race”) is a 400+ acre motorsports facility north of Pittsburgh in Wampum, PA (pvgp.org). It features a 2.78-mile road course (19 turns with significant elevation changes), a fast .83-mile Wilson Circuit kart track, and a 6-acre skid-pad/Vehicle Dynamics Area for driver training (pvgp.org) (pvgp.org). The complex was originally built as Beaverun Motorsports Park (opening in 2002 with the 1.6-mile North Track) and rebranded “Pitt Race” after being acquired by driving enthusiasts Jim and Kathy Stout in 2011 (www.pittrace.com) (www.motoamerica.com). Under the Stouts, the track was expanded and enhanced – notably adding a 1.2-mile South Track in 2015 to create the full 2.78-mile circuit, completely repaving the course and installing a new timing/scoring tower in 2017 (www.motoamerica.com) (pvgp.org). Today Pitt Race is recognized as the premier racing destination in the Ohio Valley, bringing amateur and professional racers as well as fans together for year-round events (www.sccaproracing.com).

The circuit’s design (by noted track architect Alan Wilson) exploits the rolling hills of the reclaimed mining land, with blind crests and swooping elevation changes that make it both scenic and challenging (pvgp.org). The older North Track (2002) and the newer South Track (2015) can be run separately or combined into the full course (pvgp.org) (www.motoamerica.com). Facilities include wide paved paddocks, electrical hookups for RVs, and eight rentable garage bays in the paddock (pvgp.org) (www.pittrace.com). Despite its rural setting (Wampum is about a 50-minute drive up the Turnpike from downtown Pittsburgh (pvgp.org)), Pitt Race’s world-class amenities – from a corporate event center to a pro-grade fueling station – make it a unique motorsports hub. The venue quickly drew interest when it opened (with major club racing soon on the calendar) and its revival under the Stouts added millions in infrastructure, solidifying its importance to the region’s auto-racing culture (www.roadracingworld.com) (www.sccaproracing.com).

Events and Programming

Pitt Race hosts a **wide variety of motorsports events** and driving programs throughout the year. It is primarily known for auto and motorcycle racing rather than concert or theatrical performances. Typical events include club sports-car and motorcycle races (SCCA, NASA and other series), high-performance driving schools (PCA, BMWCCA, Skip Barber, etc.), go-kart grand prix and drifting events. It also welcomes national pro series: for example, Pitt Race has been a stop on the MotoAmerica superbike championship since 2017 (www.motoamerica.com), and multi-class events like the Keystone Speedfest have featured series such as the Trans Am, F4 U.S., F3 Americas, F1600, F2000 and Atlantic championships (www.sccaproracing.com). The track is also home to the annual Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix “Historics” race (a vintage/vintage-flagship weekend dating back to 2004), which draws classic Mustangs, Corvettes, MGs, Jaguars, Porsches and other historic racers each July (pvgp.org) (pvgp.org). Other notable gatherings include GridLife (a three-day car and drift festival held in October) and endurance or specialty driving events (e.g. 24-hour rallies or manufacturer track days).

Most events run on weekends (spring through fall) and follow festival-style schedules with multiple on-track sessions per day. Many races offer general admission passes, often with single-day or weekend options. For example, a recent PVGP vintage racing weekend sold single-day spectator tickets for about $25 in advance ($30 at the gate) with children 12 and under free (pvgp.org). Prices for other events vary by promoter – club races are often $10–$30 per day, while professional racing weekends may be $30–$60+ for a multi-day pass. Track days and driving schools typically charge only for drivers (spectators often attend free), and limited VIP or paddock passes may be available at extra cost. Tickets are usually sold through official event channels (race organizers or Pitt Race’s site) and often go on sale weeks to months ahead of the event. Popular events like national-championship races can sell out early, so advance purchase is recommended. (www.sccaproracing.com) (pvgp.org)

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Pitt Race events are generally available online via the race or event organizers (often on Premiere Timing/motorsportreg, the track’s website, or the promoter’s site) and at the gate. There is usually no central box office at the track except on race weekends. For major weekends it’s wise to book early: for example, a three-day championship race may offer discounted advance pricing or full-weekend passes. Single-day gate prices typically range from about $20–$35 for adults (varying by event), with children commonly admitted free or at reduced price (pvgp.org). Some ticket tiers include paddock access or reserved viewing areas, but most general admission is lawn/seated-only. Pay attention to each event’s rules – for instance, the PVGP Historics charges $25 per person per day in advance (pvgp.org), and the track often runs open-test or practice days separately (those may not require spectator tickets at all). Early registration and “early bird” deals can secure better rates, while last-minute or on-site purchases may cost more. For driving schools or track rentals, book directly through the Pitt Race website or affiliated driving clubs (note fees for coaches, fuel, etc.).

In summary, secure your walk-up ticket either online via the promoter or at the event entrance. Keep an eye on Pitt Race’s official schedule (on pittrace.com or the respective racing series sites) and sign up quickly for high-demand events to avoid disappointment.

Seating and Layout

Pitt Race is a **mostly outdoor, general-admission venue**. It does not have a large permanent grandstand like a stadium; instead, spectators watch from paved areas and grassy hillsides. The most famous viewing area is “Spectator Hill” – a raised grass bank overlooking about 70% of the course (pvgp.org). From Spectator Hill you can see several turns plus a long straight, and it provides panoramic views (the PVGP calls it “the perfect perch for watching great racing” (pvgp.org)). Another popular spot is near the turn under the water tower on the backstretch, which offers a clear view of the fast turn-in and exit (this area is often used as a “car corral” parking/viewing zone by event organizers (pvgp.org)). Other corners have small bleachers or standing zones, and fans often bring folding chairs or blankets for the hillside. The start/finish straight and pit area have modest seating and standing room; many viewers spread out on the grass beyond the pits.

The full Pitt Race circuit is 2.78 miles long (North 1.6 miles + South 1.2 miles when combined) (pvgp.org). It runs through wooded and hilly terrain, and parts of the course are obscured from view by turns and trees. The track has 19 turns with a reported 85-foot elevation drop between two key segments (pvgp.org), so viewing locations tend to be elevated to see through the undulations. Note that at many areas the spectators are on grass - there are limited paved grandstands. If you plan to sit on the hill, bring low chairs or blankets (and sunscreen or rain gear as needed). Children and wheelchairs may find some vantage areas difficult to reach due to the slope. Overall, the experience at Pitt Race is more relaxed than a formal arena: families often picnic and tailgate on the hills, and there’s a “festival” vibe in the paddocks, but be prepared for open-air conditions (mud/dust when the ground is wet or dry).

Getting There and Parking

The track’s address is 201 Penndale Road, Wampum, PA 16157 (pghevents.net). It’s about 45–50 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). Take the Turnpike west to Exit 13 (Beaver Valley/Big Beaver/Beaver Falls), then go north on PA-18 for roughly 3 miles and turn left onto Penndale Road (pvgp.org). You can also approach from the north via U.S. 422 through New Castle and Route 18 south, which is faster if coming from Erie/Youngstown. (There is ample signage for “PittRace” at the gate area.)

**Parking:** Free on-site parking is available in the paddock and spectator lots (pghevents.net). For day-race events, additional parking is allowed on Spectator Hill (top of the hill) and near the water tower, often organized by event staff. For example, the PVGP Historics offers an optional “Spectator Hill” car corral ($30/day) and a water-tower parking vista ($10/day) (pvgp.org). These paid spots let you tailgate directly overlooking the track. Otherwise, park in the main lots by the paddock; volunteers or staff usually direct cars. Lots fill up early for big races, so plan to arrive before gates open if you want a close spot. The terrain is hilly, so accessible parking will be closest to the entrance and pit area. (Note: The complex expressly prohibits overnight camping on Spectator Hill, but allows tent/RV camping in designated areas for a fee (www.pittrace.com).)

**Public Transit / Rideshare:** There is no public transit to the track. The nearest small town (Ellwood City) is 5 miles away and not served by regional buses from Pittsburgh. If relying on rideshare, plan for pickup/drop-off at the main entrance (Penndale Road). Cell reception is usually good along Route 18, but coverage can be spotty on parts of the track – in an emergency, dialing 911 from your phone is still the best option.

Inside the Venue

Upon entry, expect a casual but safety-conscious atmosphere. There is likely a single ticket gate for spectators; during major events expect bag checks for prohibited items. The track enforces standard safety rules (no smoking near fuel, no reckless behavior, etc.). You’ll hear race announcements over a PA, but note that the roaring engines are the main soundtrack – earplugs or earmuffs are recommended, especially for children. You can bring cameras and phones (non-commercial photography is allowed) (www.pittrace.com), so capturing on-track action is fine as long as you stay in spectator areas.

Parse the layout: the START/FINISH straight and pit lane lie next to a cluster of temporary team trailers. Just beyond that is an Event Center / clubhouse (with restrooms and possibly a snack bar during events). Portable toilets are scattered in the paddocks and spectator zones if needed. Vendors or food trucks are typically located near the paddock or midway around the track (the PVGP Historics notes food & drink booths throughout the facility (pvgp.org)). In general, expect typical concessions: burgers, fries, sandwiches, soft drinks and often local beer or lemonade stands. At a PVGP Vintage weekend, even a local craft brewery (Helltown Brewing) set up shop on-site (pvgp.org). Outside food and coolers are not explicitly banned by the rules, but few fans bring them since nearby dining is sparse. If you do pack snacks, be sure to carry out all trash – Pitt Race provides bins for recycling and waste (www.pittrace.com).

For supplies and merchandise: Pitt Race operates a track store in the main building (selling hats, T-shirts, racing gear, and Sunoco fuel products). Additional event-specific merchandise (posters, team shirts) can be found at race registration areas. Cell service (4G LTE) is generally available in the pit and hill areas, so you should be able to check schedules or navigate as needed. There is no public Wi-Fi, so plan on using your phone or a hotspot if you need internet. The venue does not have a coat check or phone charging stations – bring portable chargers for smartphones. The vibe is family-friendly but keep in mind this is a working racetrack: climbing fences, littering, or wandering into active track areas is prohibited for safety.

Nearby Amenities

Food: Wampum has a couple of simple diners. For example, T-Bones Paramount Café (400 Beaver St) serves burgers, sandwiches and hearty American fare, and JS Family Restaurant offers classic diner-style breakfasts and lunches (open weekends) (www.yellowpages.com). Beyond Wampum, the nearest restaurants are in Beaver Falls (about 8–10 miles south on Route 18) and Ellwood City (about 8 miles north). In Beaver Falls you’ll find chains and locals: common stops include fast food (McDonald’s, Subway, Steak ‘n Shake) and local favorites like Sal’s Pizzeria, Zippy’s Pub & Diner, or Red Lobster. Ellwood City has a few pubs (e.g. the Hangar 56 brewery) as well as diners and a Texas Roadhouse. Weekends for races tend to be busy, so don’t expect fine dining near the track – plan casual meals or pack a cooler if you prefer.

Hotels: Because Wampum itself is small, most race fans stay in nearby towns. Beaver Falls (10–15 minutes away) has several budget and mid-range hotels along Route 18: for example, Super 8, Ramada by Wyndham and Microtel by Wyndham are within a 2-3 mile radius of the track (chippewa area). New Castle (15–20 minutes north) offers more chain options (Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, etc.) and a larger downtown. Ellwood City also has an Economy Inn and a few motels on Peckford Road. Make reservations well in advance for big race weekends – these places fill up fast. Note trip times: although Pittsburgh is under an hour away, traffic from the city on Turnpike weekends can add time, so build in extra travel if you’re coming from the metro area.

Other: The track is a bit out in the country, so plan on fueling up and grabbing supplies before you arrive. There is a Sheetz and a Wal-Mart near Exit 13 of the Turnpike (just before you reach the track), which are convenient for snacks, drinks, or gas. Late-night dining or nightlife near Wampum is extremely limited; after a race day, transportation off-site (taxis/rideshare) may be your only way to reach a restaurant or bar in Beaver Falls after 10pm. If you do choose to tailgate or camp on-site (which is allowed in designated areas), the track provides electrical hookups for RVs (for a fee) (www.pittrace.com).

What Makes This Venue Special

Pitt Race is unique because it’s not just “another racetrack” – it’s a multi-use motorsports park with a storied local history. It stands out as Western Pennsylvania’s first purpose-built road racing circuit (formerly site of mining), and it was conceived by local racing enthusiasts to serve the Pittsburgh region (www.racingcircuits.info) (www.sccaproracing.com). The track’s natural scenery and challenging layout are often praised: the course “winds throughout the 427-acre property” with sweeping elevation changes, blind crests and high-speed sections (pvgp.org) (pvgp.org). Many riders and drivers comment that the course feels like a twisty mountain road more than a flat stadium circuit. In 2002, engineers from Bridgestone/Firestone even used Pitt Race for tire testing, highlighting its technical nature (www.racingcircuits.info).

The Stouts have invested millions to transform the venue into “world-class” status (www.caferacermag.com) (www.pittrace.com). Under their ownership (since 2011), Pitt Race has hosted marquee events that have never before come to Pittsburgh – for instance, MotoAmerica superbike races and pro car series outings. Locally, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix has called it a home for historic racing since 2004 (pvgp.org). Many local car clubs and corporations also use the track for driver schools and demos, adding to its community impact. Economically, the complex has brought jobs and tourism dollars back to rural Beaver County – early projections when it first opened expected over 100 new jobs and $2.5 million in local hospitality revenue (www.roadracingworld.com). Culturally, it has given the region a year-round venue for automotive culture and “gearhead” events that were lacking before. Fans often say Pitt Race feels like a friendly, grassroots racing festival every time – something you don’t get at every big arena.

For spectators, the combination of easy viewing (the famous hill), family-friendly programs, and one-of-a-kind events (like the car corral and charity rides at the water tower (pvgp.org)) gives the track character. For drivers, the natural terrain design and professional facilities (paved paddocks, Sunoco race fuels on hand, and modern safety barriers) make Pitt Race both fun and safe. In short, this venue matters because it brought world-class road racing to Pittsburgh’s backyard and nurtured a community around the thrill of speed (www.sccaproracing.com) (pvgp.org).

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: Pitt Race is mostly outdoors and spread out over hilly terrain. There is limited paved access beyond the main paddock. Family and ADA parking is up front near the entrance. While general admission areas (like Spectator Hill) involve walking on grass or gravel, some smoother viewing is available near the pit wall and event center. The facility does provide ADA-friendly restrooms in the main building. If you need special assistance, contact the track office before your visit so they can advise.

What to Bring: Dress for outdoor conditions. The elevation can make hilltops quite windy, so bring a jacket or layers, as well as hat/sunglasses for sun protection. Closed-toe shoes are a must (lots of gravel and grass). Folding chairs or blankets are recommended for seating on grassy slopes. Ear protection (especially for children) is strongly advised to handle the loud engines. Binoculars are handy for picking out distant corner action. You may also want sunscreen and rain gear – events are rain-or-shine unless severe weather cancels the schedule.

Prohibited/Allowed Items: The venue’s rules are safety-driven. Pets are allowed (on leash) (www.pittrace.com), and spectators can bring non-commercial cameras (www.pittrace.com). Initially, the track site does not explicitly forbid outside food/drink, but there are on-site vendors. Tyre vendors, infield entertainment areas, and occasional fireworks displays may appear at special events, but always stay behind safety fences. No outside alcohol is mentioned, but drink responsibly with respect to kids and strict no-open-fire policy (www.pittrace.com). There is no formal dress code – casual sportswear is normal. (One tip: if you plan to camp or bring an RV, reserve an electrical hookup in advance; power spots are first-come, first-served on race weekends and incur a small fee (www.pittrace.com).)

Common Mistakes: Many first-time visitors underestimate the walk from parking to viewing spots, or assume there will be large stands everywhere. In reality, you’ll be sitting on grass for much of the day, so pack accordingly. Also, remember that Pitt Race is not just an amusement park – it’s a working racetrack. Stay off the track surface, follow marshals’ guidance, and keep a safe distance from active pits. Finally, check the schedule carefully. If you arrive late, you might miss on-track action – race weekends can feature sessions from morning until late afternoon. Arrive early (often gates open by 7am) to get oriented and find a good viewing spot.

Insider Tips: Many fans like to get a grandstand seat at the start-finish straight for photograph opportunities and announcements, then move to Spectator Hill to catch the majority of racing. The hill overlooks the inner section and gives a sweeping perspective (some say it covers ~70% of the track (pvgp.org)). If you want to tailgate or show off a car, consider the paid Spectator Hill parking/camp area – it’s costly per day ($30 for use of your own car at the top) (pvgp.org) but offers the ultimate up-close view and party atmosphere. Fuel choices are peculiar: Pitt Race stocks high-end race fuels (Sunoco 110, 100, 90 octanes) (pvgp.org), but your everyday car should fill up before the exit. Lastly, try cart racing if available – the Wilson kart track is open to the public for open-lap sessions on some evenings, giving you a chance to race on the same grounds as the pros. Remember to enjoy the community: Pitt Race events often feel like a big tailgate of car lovers, so mingle at the paddocks and enjoy the machinery and people watching!