Capitol City Speedway, just south of Topeka, has been a fixture in the Kansas racing scene since 1954. This 0.25-mile paved oval is all about short track action, drawing racers and fans from across the region for its weekly programs. Expect a classic, grassroots racing atmosphere—it's not a massive stadium, but a place where you can get close to the action and feel the rumble of the engines. Sprint cars are a big draw, along with modifieds and late models, offering a mix of racing styles that keeps things interesting. Check their website for the specific schedule, as different classes run on different nights. If you're a seasoned race fan, you'll appreciate the Speedway's dedication to pure oval racing and the competitive spirit of the local drivers. But it's also a great place to introduce someone to the sport. The smaller size makes it easier to follow the races, and the affordability of short track racing makes it accessible. Spectator events are common, and club racing adds another layer to the schedule, so there's usually something happening. Located near Topeka, it's an easy drive for anyone in northeast Kansas looking for a dose of high-speed excitement.
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.