Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) | Fort Worth

Information

Landmark: Texas Motor Speedway (TMS)
City: Fort Worth
Country: USA Texas
Continent: North America

Texas Motor Speedway (TMS), Fort Worth, USA Texas, North America

Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) is a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) superspeedway located in Fort Worth, Texas, USA.

It hosts multiple NASCAR and IndyCar Series events annually.

Visual Characteristics

The speedway features a D-shaped oval track constructed from asphalt and concrete. The seating capacity is 112,000, with additional infield viewing areas. The grandstands are primarily gray concrete, with red and white seating sections. The track's banking varies from 24 degrees in the turns to 5 degrees on the frontstretch and 3 degrees on the backstretch. The infield includes a lake and various support facilities.

Location & Access Logistics

TMS is situated approximately 15 miles (24 km) north of downtown Fort Worth. Access is primarily via Interstate 35W (I-35W) North. Exit 60 (US-287 North/Fort Worth Bypass) provides direct access. Ample parking is available on-site, with designated areas for general admission and premium ticket holders. Public transport options are limited; shuttle services may operate on event days from designated park-and-ride locations in Fort Worth and Dallas, but these are not consistently available year-round.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Texas Motor Speedway began in 1995, and it opened in 1997. It was designed by H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler and built by Speedway Motorsports, LLC. The original purpose was to host major professional stock car racing and open-wheel racing events, establishing a significant motorsports venue in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The site was previously undeveloped land.

Key Highlights & Activities

Attend NASCAR Cup Series races, Xfinity Series races, or IndyCar Series events. Participate in track tours, which may include access to the pit road and winner's circle (availability varies by event schedule). Drive your own vehicle on the track during specific "track days" or "driving experiences" offered by third-party vendors (pre-registration and fees apply). Explore the infield museum and fan zone areas during major race weekends.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located throughout the grandstands and concourse areas. Shade is available in covered seating sections and designated fan zones. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available, though can be congested during large events. Food and beverage vendors are present within the speedway complex, offering a range of concessions. Limited retail shops selling merchandise are also on-site.

Best Time to Visit

The primary events occur in late spring (April/May) and fall (October/November). For optimal lighting for photography of the track itself, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended, particularly during non-event days when access might be more flexible. Weather in Texas can be extreme; spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures compared to the summer heat.

Facts & Legends

The speedway is nicknamed "The Great American Speedway" due to its large scale and capacity. A unique feature is the 5.7-acre (2.3 ha) lake located in the infield, which is used for water features and sometimes as a backdrop for victory lane celebrations.