Pocono is one of the most unique tracks on the NASCAR circuit.
The track features three turns, each with different banking, and three
straightaways of differing lengths, with the front stretch allowing
five-wide racing. The result is ultra-competitive races with
exhilarating finishes.
Pocono is situated in the scenic Pocono mountains, in Long Pond,
Pennsylvania. New York is 98 miles
east, Philadelphia is 107 miles
southeast, and Baltimore is 195 miles
south.
Pocono seats 77,000, with all seats located along the front stretch.
The infield is vast, with plenty of room for tailgating and partying.
The track hosts two NASCAR weekends each year. The Nextel Cup
makes two stops, one each in June and July. Check the
Nextel Cup schedule for
dates.
Tickets are usually available until race day approaches, although the
best seats are sold well in advance. For tickets, call the ticket
office at 800-RACEWAY.
There is plenty of parking around Pocono raceway. However,
traffic in and out of the track is brutal. Many fans choose to
park on the roads leading into the track and walk the rest of the way;
this can help avoid some traffic after the race. Obviously, if
you're going to be tailgating, you'll want to be closer to the track.
In that case, use the main lots.
Hotels are in short supply in the area. There are few cities
nearby, so most hotels are scattered throughout the Poconos. The
nearest city with a significant number of hotels is
Wilkes Barre, 33 miles northwest.
Allentown, 48 miles south, also has plenty of hotels.
