Are you a fan of dirt-track racing? If you are, chances are that you already know about the iconic Williams Grove Speedway in Mechanicsburg. If not, read on to find the top three reasons you should visit this summer.
Williams Grove Speedway is a Unique Experience
Built in 1939, Williams Grove Speedway is one of the oldest tracks in the country. Measuring in at a 1/2 mile, this clay track has one of the longest straightaways in the country, allowing drivers to navigate through the turns at high speeds. How fast do the sprint cars go at Williams Grove? During the races, you'll see speeds of 150 mph or more. Now famous for sprint car racing, they were one of the first tracks to open to this class.
The track is also unique as it has remained true to its heritage, maintaining many of the historic buildings and a unique steel bridge taking bystanders over the track to the infield. Being so close to these roaring vehicles is truly an experience! For an even closer and personal experience, pit passes can be purchased at any event.
Races occur on Friday nights, beginning at 7:30 pm, from mid-March through early October. Warm-ups take place 30 minutes before the starting time. Can't make it to the race but are interested in the results? Discover the winner at Williams Grove Speedway.
Watch Seasoned Professionals and Famous Faces
Higher than-average payouts to the winners mean the track is full of talent. During the largest and highest-paid race of the season, the National Open at the beginning of October, the winner takes home $75,000. For the 2023 season, sprint car purses remain the same or boast an even larger payout than last year. With this type of incentive, it's no wonder Williams Grove hosts such talented drivers!
Perhaps the biggest rivalry at The Grove each summer is the World of Outlaws. Known as the best sprint car drivers in the country, this traveling group typically wins wherever they race—except in Pennsylvania. Locals, known as the PA Posse, show great talent and often beat the Outlaws.
From the 1940s to the 1960s, the Indy Tour came to Williams Grove, and famous drivers like AJ Foyt and Mario Andretti joined it. Although there are no longer Indy car races at The Grove, NASCAR drivers such as Kasey Kahne, Kyle Larson, Dave Blaney, and Tony Stewart have been stopped for surprise visits in the past.
If you are interested in racing and automotive history, visit the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing in nearby York Springs or the Rolls Royce Foundation & Museum in Mechanicsburg.
Racing is Fun for the Whole Family
You don't have to be a race fan to enjoy a night of dirt track racing. Throughout the season, several shows include a fireworks display that the kids will love. Going to the races is also an affordable family activity, as children 12 and under are free, and discounted youth tickets are available for teens and young adults ages 13-20. General admission tickets for Williams Grove Speedway can only be purchased at the gates around the speedway on the race day. Parking is free. While concession stands are available, fans are welcome to bring small coolers. TIP: Williams Grove is a cash-only facility. There is an ATM on site.
2025 Season at Williams Grove Speedway
Each night is different at Williams Grove Speedway. A glance at the track schedule shows a variety of classes, including 358 and 410 Sprint Cars, Super Sportsman, Late Models, and Street Stock. The 2025 season includes World of Outlaws events on May 9 and 10, the Summer Nationals on July 25 and 26, and the 63rd annual National Open on October 3 and 4.
Due to forecasted bad weather, Williams Grove Speedway moved the opening of the 2025 racing season from March 16 to Friday, March 21, at 7:30 pm. Two Fan Appreciation Nights will be hosted in 2025 -- May 30 for the 410 sprints and August 1 for 358 sprint cars. Kids Night is scheduled for June 13. Bring the whole family out for a night at the track. Come early to play games and enter to win many prizes in the infield. A driver autograph session will also take place in the infield prior to hot laps.
Weekend Getaway
For a unique experience, general camping at Williams Grove Speedway is located on the right side of the lot off Williams Grove Road and outside turn 3 off Speedway Drive. Only dry camping is available. The site opens at 12 pm on the day of the race and will close the day after the race at 1 pm. Small, contained campfires are allowed.
Cumberland Valley's hotels are the perfect fit if you want a few more amenities. Hotels near Williams Grove Speedway include the Wingate Mechanicsburg/Harrisburg West, Country Inn & Suites Harrisburg West, Courtyard by Marriott Harrisburg West/Mechanicsburg, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Harrisburg West. Check out rates and make your hotel reservation today!
Looking for dining, shopping, and things to do after race night? Check out our suggestions to plan a fun-filled Cumberland Valley adventure.
