Get Ready for The Daytona 500 - Here's What You Need to Know About 2018 Daytona 500
The Daytona 500 gets closer every day. If you’re planning to visit Florida to see the 60th annual race, then there are likely a few things you’re wondering. We’re here today to answer some of those frequently asked questions so you can move forward with your planning?
When exactly is the 2018 Daytona 500?
The 60th year of the Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, February 18th, 2018. From 1968 through to 2011 it was always held on President’s Day weekend but from 2012 – 2017 it was held on different weekends. The 60th anniversary race will be once again moved back to President’s Day. This makes it an opportune time to check out Orlando hotels – or even Disney vacation packages – to turn a racing trip into a family reunion.
What should we expect from the Daytona International Freeway?
Anyone who follows racing has likely heard about the massive improvements to the Daytona International Freeway. In fact, they put more than $400 million into the progress and it shows. It’s famously been referred to as “The World of Racing,” but today is proud to be referred to as the first true motorsports stadium anywhere in the world.
The improvements are pretty massive and include changes to the seats that make them both wider and more comfortable, five new entrances that are larger and designed to get people in and out more easily, 40 escalators, and additional upgraded amenities. Essentially, these upgrades were designed to ensure that visitors enjoy the space even more and have easier access to all the spots they want to see.
The upgrades have so far gotten good reviews. In fact, the Sports Business Award gave them the Sports Facility of the Year Award. There are going to be some really interesting events at Daytona International Freeway too, like a massive country music festival, a bunch of car shows, and the Ferrari World Finals – just to name a few.
When do tickets for the 2018 Daytona 500 go on sale?
Tickets went on sale in June. As is true of all Daytona 500 events, there are many different types of tickets to buy, including hospitality tickets, premium seat packages, and lounge packages that let you sit back and enjoy the race in style.
Is Daytona 500 a good option for kids?
Families that are considering making Speedweek into a Disney vacation package may wonder if there’s anything to do with the kids, or how much it will cost to take the kids to events. The good news is that all Speedweek events in addition to Daytona 500 are just $10 for kids 12 years old or younger if you choose reserved stadium seating. On the other hand, if you want general admission tickets, or to hang out in the UNOH Fanzone, it will cost $0 for the kids. That’s right, kids are free in those areas.
Where’s the best place to stay during the Daytona 500?
If you try to stay in Daytona itself, you’re going to spend three to four times what you’d spend on a typical weekend. On the other hand, Orlando hotels and Orlando vacation home rentals will be affordable. You can then add a Disney vacation package and make an epic trip out of it. This is the best recommendation we have, as Daytona is just an hour or so away and the savings are well worth it.
When should we book our lodging for Daytona 500?
Right now. There’s actually quite a lot to plan. First, you’ll want to choose your Orlando hotels. If your group is more than four people – or you simply want extra privacy – then Orlando vacation home rentals may be a better option. Either way, the sooner you book them, the more likely you will be to get exactly the space you want.
After you decide on your lodgings, you’ll want to plan out the rest of your trip. This includes how to get to and from Daytona International Speedway, when to visit Disney World or Universal Orlando, and what delicious restaurants to take advantage of.