3 Ways to Experience Watkins Glen International Raceway
The Finger Lakes are filled with unique experiences. One of our area’s finest attractions is just a short drive from the town of Hammondsport in Watkins Glen, NY. This town is home to Watkins Glen International Raceway, which is a must for your Finger Lakes itinerary! During the season, the raceway hosts numerous sanctioned and club races. They also host the Finger Lakes Wine Festival and the Finger Lakes Beer Festival each year. There is a grandstand that’s open to the public daily with free access (except during spectator events) where you can watch small club racing and track days seven days a week. You can even drive your own personal vehicles around the track by participating in their “Drive The Glen” program that is open most every day! Read on for more information on the best ways to experience this world-famous road racing course.
When you’re ready to start planning your trip, request our free Hammondsport Destination Guide. This planning tool is filled with suggestions on things to do in Hammondsport and the surrounding area including Keuka Lake and Watkins Glen!
Top 3 Things to Do at Watkins Glen International Raceway
1. Attend a Race
Watkins Glen International hosts several professional races each year. One of the best ways to experience all that this attraction has to offer is to attend a race at the Glen. From Grand P–style to stock car racing, you can plan to visit for a variety of exciting events.
Professional stock car racing is one of the most popular events at the raceway drawing more than 100,000 fans. Visit Watkins Glen International during the first weekend in August to watch this 90-lap race that’s part of a professional cup series, as well as three other thrilling races!
2. Drive the Glen
Can’t visit for a race weekend? Get an adrenaline rush with the Drive the Glen program. This way, you can drive your own vehicle (except for motorcycles, RVs, and motorcoaches) around the full 3.1-mile track just like the pros do. Blackout dates apply. Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to purchase your ticket ahead of time!
3. Finger Lakes Wine Festival
Watkins Glen International is also the site of the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, which is the largest event of its kind in New York State! This event takes place each July, and showcases nearly 100 Finger Lakes wineries as well as artisans, musicians, and more. It’s an absolute blast!
Stay at the Hammondsport Hotel
Stay just a short scenic drive away from Watkins Glen International Raceway at the Hammondsport Hotel. Our hotel in Hammondsport, NY, is the perfect venue for a peaceful retreat while staying near all the area’s best attractions. After a day of watching, racing, or tasting at the Glen, head back to your accommodation at the Hammondsport Hotel.
We offer Standard 2 Queen Rooms, 2 Queen Suites, Standard King Rooms, and King Suites. Our overnight guests can also enjoy our complimentary hotel amenities like daily breakfast, a 24/7 exercise facility, an indoor heated pool, and more!
Check our availability to start planning your adrenaline-packed getaway!