Dover International Speedway Tailgate

Overview

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Fast facts

Year Opened: 1969

Capacity: 95500

City / State: Dover / Delaware

Biggest Event: Gander RV 400

All time Champion: Jimmie Johnson

Recent Winner: Martin Truex Jr.

Last 5 Winners

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2019

Martin Truex Jr. takes the win in the 2019 Gander RV 400 with a time of 3:08:37. He was able to best Alex Bowman (2nd) and Kyle Larson (3rd).

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2018

Kevin Harvick won the 2018 AAA 400 Drive for Autism (former name of Gander RV 400 in 2018) with a time of 3:28:37. He was able to beat Clitn Bowyer who got 2nd place, and Daniel Suarez who ended up in 3rd.

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2017

Jimmie Johnson won the 2017 AAA 400 Drive for Autism (former name of Gander RV 400 in 2017) with a time of 3:52:06. He was able to beat Kyle Larson who got 2nd place, and Martin Truex, Jr. who ended up in 3rd. The race extended due to a NASCAR Overtime finish.

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2016

Matt Kenseth won the 2016 AAA 400 Drive for Autism (former name of Gander RV 400 in 2016) with a time of 3:39:29. He was able to beat Kyle Larson who got 2nd place, and Chase Elliott who ended up in 3rd.

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2015

Jimmie Johnson won the 2015 FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks (former name of Gander RV 400
from 2011 to 2015) with a time of 3:23:16. He was able to beat Kevin Harvick who got 2nd place, and Kyle Larson who ended up in 3rd. The race extended due to a NASCAR Overtime finish.

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Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

If you like NASCAR, camping, and tailgating, then you’ll love taking a trip to Dover International Speedway. At Dover International Speedway, you’ll find plenty of all three to keep you entertained for the weekend as well as a wide variety of other entertainment options making a trip to Dover a must.

Dover International Speedway offers a wide selection of camping options including the brand new Glamping at the Retreat. Those of you who want a luxury camping experience will without a doubt want to try Glamping at the Retreat as it includes everything you could want in a camping experience including an air-conditioned tent and a queen-size bed. Don’t worry though if you’d rather bring your RV or rough it in a more traditional tent as there are lots of-of other camping options here.

If camping isn’t your thing, you’ll be in luck as traditional tailgating is quite popular at Dover International Speedway as well. The fans here go all out to put on some of the best tailgate displays you’ll find anywhere, and the racetrack doesn’t just support tailgating it encourages it. Just make sure to be respectful and follow the rules, and you’ll have a great time tailgating in Dover.

In addition to camping and tailgating, Dover International Speedway offers a lot of other entertainment options at their FanZone. The FanZone is home to a slew of activities that will keep you entertained up until the race starts including live music, driving simulators and much more. There is even a kids area known as Monster Mile Youth Nation that is home to a wide variety of kids activities, so no matter what your age you’ll find something for you at the FanZone.

The Dover International Speedway offers a fun packed tailgating experience that any racing fan will love, so pack up the grill, cooler, tent, and more and head to Dover for either the Gander RV 400 or the Drydene 400.

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Traditions

Monster Mile Youth Dover International Speedway

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Monster Mile Youth Nation

If you’re bringing the kids to the race, then make sure to stop by the Monster Mile Youth Nation. Here you’ll find a wide variety of activities to keep the kids entertained throughout the day making it the perfect place for kids to hang out before the race.

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Monster Monument at Victory Plaza

Snap a picture of yourself with the Monster Monument at Victory Plaza. The massive statue is 46 feet tall and is a can’t miss for anyone visiting the Dover International Speedway. Stop by and check it out as it presents a fantastic photo op.

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FanZone

Located outside of Turn 4 the FanZone at the Dover International Speedway is the place to hang out before the race. The FanZone is home to all kinds of activities including concerts, driving simulators, a rock climbing wall, and much more. If you’re going to a race at the Dover International Speedway, then make sure to check out the FanZone.

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Where to tailgate

Glamping at the RetreatIf you’re looking for a luxurious camping experience, then make sure to check out Glamping at the Retreat. Glamping at the Retreat supplies you with everything you need for a premium camping experience including a 20 ft. Glamping dome, a queen bed, air conditioning, electric service, and more.
The Frontstretch - Lot 7Those of you who have an RV will want to set up shop at The Frontstretch-Lot 7. Here you’ll be only steps away from the action making it the perfect place to set up your RV for the race.
Champion’s GateThe Champions Gate Super Premium RV Parking is the best place to camp in your RV. Located near the Turn 1 grandstands, the Champion’s Gate puts you right at the heart of the action on race day.
Tent CampingNo RV? No problem, just bring the tent along and take advantage of Dover International Speedway’s tent camping.
Dover International Speedway Parking LotsParking at the Speedway is only $10, and even better the Speedway encourages tailgating making for an excellent day of tailgating. Just set up the grill, tent, and coolers and you’ll be in for some tailgating fun.

Stadium Guide

In Game

Dover International Speedway is an excellent place to take in a race and is home to two major NASCAR races during the season. The Gander RV 400 is a fun summer race that will allow you to see all of your favorite NASCAR drivers in the beautiful Delaware summer weather and the Drydene 400 is one of the all-important NASCAR Cup Series playoff races. No matter which race you see at the Dover International Speedway, you’ll have an excellent time cheering on your favorite driver.

At the Dover International Speedway, you’ll find several incredible ways to take in a race including the Velocity Suite as well as other suite options and the Winner’s Circle. The Velocity Suite is the be all and end all of the suites at the Dover International Speedway as you’ll get not only all you can eat food and an incredible view of the track, but you’ll also be treated to celebrity appearances and garage tours. If you’re looking for something more high octane, then the Monster Bridge is the thing for you. The Monster Bridge allows you to take in the action from a bridge above Turn 3 and is one of the most exciting ways to take in a race anywhere. The one drawback is that tickets for the Monster Bridge are in such high demand that the only way to get them is through contests and promotions, so look for your chance to win these seats leading up to the race.

Even if you’re not attending a major race at the Dover International Speedway, you can still have a fantastic time here as there is a lot to see and do. The track tour is a fantastic way to learn more about the track and to see what goes on behind the scenes. You’ll also be able to see the Monster Monument no matter when you go, and the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino provides the perfect place to stay for anyone visiting Dover.

A trip to the Dover International Speedway is an exciting experience for any racing fan, so start planning your trip today.

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Things to check out

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Velocity Suite

Those of you who are looking to watch the race in style will without a doubt want to check out the Velocity Suite. The Velocity Suite offers everything you need to watch all the weekend racing events in style including garage tours, an incredible view of the track, celebrity appearances, unlimited food and drinks, and much more.

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Fan Suites and Winner’s Circle

The Fan Suites and Winner’s Circle are two of the best ways to experience a race at the Dover International Speedway. The suites here provide you with a full bar, lunch, breakfast, and air-conditioned accommodations making them a must for anyone looking to beat the heat on race day.

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Dover Downs Hotel and Casino

The Dover Downs Hotel and Casino is the perfect place for anyone looking for somewhere to stay during their trip to the Dover International Speedway. The hotel is located right next to the speedway and offers a casino providing you with a complete weekend destination.

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Monster Monument at Victory Plaza

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Monster Bridge

The Monster Bridge offers one of the most thrilling ways to take in a race in all of NASCAR. The bridge sits 29 feet above the third turn and lets you watch the cars as they rush past you. The one downside to the Monster Bridge is that there are only 56 seats and you can only get a spot here if you win it in a contest.

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Tour the Monster

No matter when you’re visiting Dover International Speedway, a track tour is an excellent way to learn more about the racetrack. The tour takes you to the garages, pit road, and victory lane. Those of you looking to see what goes on behind the scenes won’t want to miss the opportunity to tour the Dover International Speedway.

Bars & Restaurants

Frazier’s Restaurant

Casual American fare served in a spacious, wood-paneled restaurant with lake views & banquet rooms.

9 E Loockerman St, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-741-2420

Bar website

american - $$
The Golden Fleece Tavern

Cozy watering hole with a patio offering regular drink specials, karaoke & live music nights.

132 Loockerman St, Dover, DE 19904, USA

302-674-1776

Bar website

american - $$
33 West Ale House and Grill

Lively venue featuring an eclectic menu of short-rib burgers, crab cakes & a robust beer selection.

33 Loockerman St, Dover, DE 19904, USA

302-735-9822

Bar website

american - $$
McGlynns Pub & Restaurant

Irish-influenced alehouse for burgers & more with a large beer selection, Sunday brunch & trivia.

800 N State St, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-674-0144

Bar website

european - $$
Grotto Pizza

Family-friendly pizzeria & sports-bar chain offering a broad menu of Italian mainstays.

1159 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-678-3278

Bar website

pizza - $$
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen

Family-friendly chain serving American comfort food with a Texas twist, plus cocktails.

4590 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-698-3270

Bar website

american - $$
The Countries Eatery

Old-fashioned, casual restaurant specializing in breakfast classics & decorated with a farm theme.

950 N State St, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-674-8310

Bar website

american - $$
Hollywood Diner

Serves heartwarming breakfast, filling lunch and satisfying dinners.

123 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-734-7462

Bar website

american - $$$
Roma Italian Restaurant

Long-standing spot for classic Italian food, served in a spacious setting with banquet facilities.

3 President Dr, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-678-1041

Bar website

italian - $$
La Tonalteca Mexican Restaurant

Colorful cantina offering familiar Mexican cuisine such as fajitas & burritos, plus a full bar.

245 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-734-3444

Bar website

mexican - $$$
Restaurant 55

Eclectic gourmet burgers, big bottled beer selection & rotating craft brews on tap in low-key site.

2461 S State St, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-535-8102

Bar website

american - $$
Touchdown Restaurant

Easygoing sports-centric tavern with American staples, plus a pool table, live music & theme nights.

1666 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-674-0975

Bar website

sportsbar - $$
Irish Mike’s Old Town Pub

If you must drink, drink with us, your friends.

107 Loockerman St, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-734-4578

Bar website

european - $$
The Green Stinger Sports Bar

The Green Stinger is more than just a sports bar and grill, we are family.

492 Walnut Shade Rd, Felton, DE 19943, USA

302-698-3300

Bar website

sportsbar - $$
Brown’s Wyoming Tavern

Wyoming Tavern is unique in that it is located in what was once an old hotel for the railway that ran from New Castle County to the southern border of the state

5 N Railroad Ave, Wyoming, DE 19934, USA

Bar website

american - $$
The Celtic Pub

A traditional Irish pub atmosphere, with an amazing menu featuring items from Traditional Irish Cuisine to American classics with a Celtic Pub twist.

699 Jimmy Drive - Suites 6 & 7, Smyrna, DE 19977, United States

302-653-7243

Bar website

european - $$
Sheridan’s Irish Pub

Casual cornerstone with Irish & American eats, plus many beer choices, an outdoor deck & live music.

42 W Commerce St, Smyrna, DE 19977, USA

302-659-5566

Bar website

american - $$
Wolfie’s Bar and Grille

Waitresses in provocative attire plus a standard menu of American food in a biker-themed space

1960 S Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-659-2110

Bar website

american - $$
The Greene Turtle Sports Bar and Grill

Sports-bar chain with a casual menu starring burgers, ribs & a variety of brews, plus plenty of TVs.

391 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, USA

302-264-9612

Bar website

sportsbar - $$