Tucked into the rural outskirts of Martin, Michigan, U.S. 131 Motorsports Park sits just off the highway that gives it its name, making it a convenient stop for motorsports fans traveling through the western Lower Peninsula. This no-frills drag strip is a staple for grassroots racing, centered around a well-maintained 1/4-mile asphalt track where weekend racers and seasoned locals test their reflexes and machines. The facility operates with a straightforward focus—on-track action—and supports a full season of events, from test-and-tune nights to bracket racing and special themed drag meets that draw competitors from across West Michigan. What sets U.S. 131 Motorsports Park apart is its accessibility and built-in conveniences for fans who want to stay a while. Spectators can park close to the grandstand, and the on-site camping makes it easy to turn a race day into a weekend outing—especially popular during summer events when the track runs into the evening. Basic concessions and clean restrooms are maintained on-site, minimizing the need to leave between rounds. The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, typical of community-driven tracks where crew members know each other by name and beginners are welcome as long as they follow safety rules. It’s a solid pick for local enthusiasts, amateur racers, or families looking to experience drag racing up close without the crowds or cost of a major speedway.
Watch: U.S. 131 Motorsports Park
Know Before You Go
- Test & tune nights
- Most strips run open 'test and tune' or 'run what ya brung' sessions for $20-40 entry. Make as many passes as time allows — perfect for street cars and bracket prep.
- Required gear
- A helmet is required once you run faster than 13.99 in the quarter-mile (or 9.99 in the eighth). Anything quicker than 11.49 typically requires a roll bar and SFI gear.
- Tech inspection
- Cars go through a basic safety check: battery hold-down, throttle return, seatbelt condition, tire condition. Faster cars need NHRA tech and current chassis cert.
- Bracket racing
- Saturday-night bracket programs pit dial-in handicap races. You declare your ET, race against a 'pro tree,' and closer to your dial without going under wins.
- Timeslip souvenir
- Most tracks print your ET, trap speed, reaction time, and 60-foot on a timeslip after each pass — a fun keepsake even if you're just there to mess around.