Virginia Motorsports Park, located in Dinwiddie, just south of Richmond, is a serious drag racing destination. As an NHRA-sanctioned track, it hosts major national events like the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals, bringing in top drivers and teams. Spectators can expect a full weekend of high-octane action, with various classes of dragsters competing and plenty of opportunities to see the pits and meet the racers. Beyond the big events, VMP regularly holds local and regional races, making it a hub for the East Coast drag racing community. While primarily known for drag racing, Virginia Motorsports Park also offers opportunities for corporate events and private track rentals. The facility is well-maintained and designed for both racers and fans, with ample grandstand seating and vendor areas. If you're into drag racing, whether as a competitor or a spectator, VMP is a must-visit venue. Its proximity to Richmond makes it accessible, and the strong regional support ensures a lively and engaging atmosphere for most events.
Watch: Virginia 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.