Michigan International Speedway Advance
When watching the NASCAR races from Michigan International Speedway the commentators make it seem like the MI speedway is right next to Detroit where the big three automakers are located. It is not. In fact it is about 1 1/2 hours south west. It is the closest NASCAR track to Detroit, so they are not totally wrong. In reality it is also about an hour from Ann Arbor and a little over that from Toledo OH. The Michigan International Speedway is actually located out in the sprawling countryside in southern Michigan. An area of MI called “The Irish Hills”.
The Irish Hills of MI is also a place to visit in and of itself for the picturesque terrain. The speedway is kind of off the beaten path. When you go to the speedway the drive in from all directions highlights this out in the country feel. On race weekends one will see many yard sales and typical country living. The nearest town is Brooklyn which is directly north of the track. This town looks like many country towns. This weekend on Friday and Saturday they will be having an Art Fair. Many of the businesses in and around town will also be having special events for race fans.
When you are near the track if you go even further off the beaten path you will find many lakes for fishing and boating. This is where the real Irish Hills are. One of these lakes will host a fishing tournament. The “Fish Your Bass Off” fishing Tournament will be on Thursday night for MIS Cares at Jerry’s Pub & Restaurant on Wamplers Lake.
The Michigan International Speedway is one of those tracks on the NASCAR circuit where camping is a must. Since there is a long drive to conventional housing, camping is a highlight and there are more opportunities for camping there than most any other speedway. This is the place to camp with family and friends. The weekend long tailgating atmosphere is awesome. NASCAR fans are the best sports fans and will be more than willing to share recipes, stories or simply many of the tailgating games while waiting for the track action to begin.
Camping and tickets are still available so come on out and enjoy the area and the races. Come early or stay late and get even further off the beaten path to enjoy all the “Irish Hills” has to offer.
Brian Berg Jr. is the Lead NASCAR writer for www.RantSports.com.
Follow him on Twitter @brian_jr1 during the race and throughout the week for more NASCAR news and commentary. On Facebook at NASCAR News and Commentary
