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The Daytona International Speedway is the biggest, richest and most prestigious racetrack in America. It is known as the “World Center of Racing,” and hosts big events such as the Rolex 24, Daytona 500 and Daytona Supercross (just to name a few). So what makes this track the “World Center of Racing,” other than its vast size and wealth of events? Here are a few things you may not have known about this Daytona Beach NASCAR venue:

10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Daytona International Speedway

1. The entire facility sits on 480 acres
2. The main track is 2.5 miles long and only 40 feet wide
3. Richard Petty has had the most victories at Daytona International Speedway
4. Jeff Gordon set the record for youngest winner in 1997, at 25 years, 6 months and 12 days
5. Fastest average speed on record = 177.6 mph by Buddy Baker (1980)
6. Slowest average speed on record = 124.7 mph by Junior Johnson (1960)
7. Fastest qualifying speed ever recorded = 210.364 mph by Bill Elliot (1987)
8. 10 NASCAR drivers, including Dale Earnhardt, died in crashes at Daytona International Speedway
9. Chevrolet is the most successful car here, with 18 wins in the 500
10. The turns are on a 31-degree embankment

This kick-off point for the NASCAR Sprint Cup series hosts events throughout the entire year. Other than the many NASCAR events that occupy the attention of nearly 200,000 screaming fans on certain weekends, there are two weeks of intense motorcycle racing during the Daytona 200 week in March and the end of fall, Biketoberfest. Other civic and social gatherings are held here when the tacks are not being used.

You can even tour the tracks, and get behind-the-scenes looks at the Speedway. These tours are fun and interesting for both avid NASCAR fans and novices to the sport, thanks to the variety of things to see.

The Daytona International Speedway is close to Daytona Seabreeze, making it an excellent choice for a day’s entertainment. Touring the track may even give you new items to add to the list of random facts about Daytona International Speedway!