Nestled in the rolling hills of Bedford, Pennsylvania, Bedford Speedway is a classic half-mile dirt oval that's been a Friday night tradition for racing fans in the region for years. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of grandstand seating for taking in the action. The track's dirt surface provides a unique challenge for drivers, leading to exciting races and plenty of slide jobs as they battle for position. You'll find standard concessions offering typical track fare, so come hungry and ready for an evening under the lights. Bedford Speedway is a great option for those looking for affordable, local entertainment. It's particularly well-suited for families and die-hard dirt track racing enthusiasts. While the venue isn't overly fancy, it offers an authentic racing experience that's hard to find elsewhere. The track's location just outside of Bedford makes it easily accessible, and you can typically count on a good turnout from the local community eager to cheer on their favorite drivers.
Watch: Bedford Speedway
Know Before You Go
- Race nights
- Most short tracks run Friday or Saturday night events from April through October. Always check the season calendar — many venues take rain dates or holiday breaks.
- Ticket pricing
- General admission is typically $15-40 for adults, pit passes $50-100. Children are often free or half-price. Bigger sanctioned events (touring series) cost more.
- What's racing
- Local oval classes commonly include late models, modifieds, sprint cars, hobby stock, and street stock. Bigger ovals also host NASCAR Weekly Series feature races.
- Bring earplugs
- Open-exhaust race cars push 130-145 dB at the fence — well above the threshold for hearing damage. Bring foam plugs or over-ear protection for kids.
- Schedule rhythm
- Race nights follow a consistent flow: hot laps and qualifying, heat races, then feature events. Plan for a 4-5 hour evening from gates open to checkered flag.