Disney Memories #3

In this series, we'll highlight some of our memories of Disney past. We hope you enjoy reliving old attractions, shows, and experiences with us!

As today is the big race in Daytona, I thought today's memory would focus on the Walt Disney World Speedway. My family was lucky to actually get to see a race at the speedway back in 1996. 

Look how young we are!

The Walt Disney World Speedway is built adjacent to the Transportation and Ticket Center parking lot and hosted its inaugural race on January 27, 1996. It was the home of the Indy 200 race from 1996 to 2000. It also hosted the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Chevy Trucks Challenge in 1997 and 1998. Unfortunately, series officials and Disney were not able to come to an agreement for the race date in 2001, marking the end of professional racing at the track. 

 Fun Fact: There was actually no permanent seating, restrooms or concessions built for the track. It was all brought in every year for the race, starting in November!

  
Even though there are no more races at the track, it is still used today. The Walt Disney World Speedway is now home to the Richard Petty Driving Experience, Indy Racing Experience, and Exotic Driving Experience.  My dad has experienced the RPDE, while my brother and I have done the ride-along! It was fun to go back to the race track we visited many years prior and experience it from a different angle! 

Getting ready to go!

Look how we've grown! But still love racing :)

 We would love to some day be able to experience a race at the track again but until then the driving experiences offered are great opportunities to visit the Walt Disney World Speedway! 

Have you visited the Speedway before? Share below!

Missed Disney Memory #2? Check it out here!