Places Every Car Enthusiast Should Visit

car enthusiast vacation

 

Are you a car enthusiast fueled by the need for speed? Well, there are dozens of places where you can create a unique experience that matches your passion. You can explore pro-level race tracks, pursue self-driving safaris, navigate icy roads, and anything else that can give an adrenaline rush.

 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

This is arguably the greatest racecourse in the world. It’s located a few minutes from downtown Indianapolis and caters to the need of car enthusiasts who want the thrills of motor racing. The speedway was constructed in 1909 and has museums that feature the largest car collections (formula one, midget cars, NASCAR, and Indy cars). IMS should be part of your bucket list destination.

Daytona International Speedway (Florida)

Daytona International Speedway (Florida)

Since opening in 1959, the speedway has become a host to some of the biggest races in the world. The track has multiple layouts, including a sports car course, high-speed trio oval, motorcycle course, and a flat track. And between races, the speedway offers visitors an opportunity to experience the tracks. You can arrange for an all-access tour or take advantage of the VIP options. You can be sure you’ll get the best-in-class experience.

You can ask the instructors to take you around the track – just be ready to clock speeds of up to 160mph.

 

National Automobile Museum (Nevada)

The national automobile museum has a `wow’ factor that you won’t find in any other museum. You can explore the large collection of eye-popping cars that feature authentic street scenes. The museum also boasts of exhibits, galleries, and presentations that can meet the needs of every car enthusiast. Also, the museum hosts special events that can accommodate about 1200 guests. Some of the exhibits available include:

  • Celebrity autos
  • Art and collectibles
  • Race cars
  • Bill Harrah legendary collector
  • Off-road motorsports

Some of the celebrity-cars you’ll find here include John Wayne’s 1953 Corvette, 1973 Cadillac Eldorado (Elvis Presley’s), and John Kennedy’s 1962 Lincoln Continental.

Mercedes Benz Museum, Stuttgart Germany

Mercedes Benz Museum, Stuttgart Germany

A true car enthusiast wants to learn about the history of Mercedes Benz. This information is available at The Mercedes Benz Museum. You’ll find hundreds of exhibits that take about 16000 square feet of space.

This exhibition not only gives the fascinating story of the iconic cars but also gives illuminating insights into the future. At the top level, the visitor can see exhibits that date back to 1886. Several legend rooms give the history of the brand. You’ll also get a glimpse of the day-to-day work of Mercedes Benz.

Each vehicle here is presented by documents, photos, pictures, and additional exhibits. Other things car enthusiasts will learn are:

  • The invention of the automobile
  • Birth of Mercedes
  • Times of change – diesel and supercharger
  • The road to emission and free mobility
  • Races and records

Peterson Automotive Museum

Peterson Automotive Museum features 250 vehicles from around the world. Car lovers can explore the most iconic cars in the world, trucks, and motorcycles.  Some of my favorite vehicles had those banks diesel performance parts installed.  You talk about speed!

Visitors can see:

  • Head of state cars
  • American classics
  • Cars that have pushed the boundaries of innovation
  • Award-winning hot rods
  • Cars that belong to Hollywood legends

Pagani Factory and museum

Pagani Factory and museum

Pagani hypercars are without a doubt the most expensive in the world. They are built by hand and customized with fiber. And every model is unique. The two models that will impress any car enthusiast is Huarya and Zonda. Another model that has been added to the lineup is Zonda Barchetta.

Pagani Museum highlights the history of Horatio Pagani. You will also get highlights from the philosophy of Horatio Pagani. Even today, his unique craftsman skills apply in every creative process.

North American Auto Show

The North American Auto Show is one of the biggest events in Detroit. Each year, manufacturers unveil new models and concept cars. This is an opportunity to learn new concepts about the American auto show. Most notably, you can find similar car shows in Florida and New York.

 

Tesla factory Fremont, CA

Tesla factory, Fremont, California

This is the world’s most advanced car factory with over 370 acres of land. The engineers aim for the highest level of craftsmanship. Some of the high-end cars that will wow any car enthusiast are Model 3, Model X, and Model S. While most of the tours are designed for these three models, there’s a program to allow for more viewing. If you’re one of the lucky few, you should make your reservations 1-2 weeks in advance.

 

Patagonia Jeep Tour with Quasar Expeditions

Have you ever thought of traversing the wilderness of the world? Quasar expeditions accommodate the needs of every jeep enthusiast. Guests can choose a guided tour or guide themselves. But to ensure they don’t get lost in the vast wilderness, a GPS is attached at the rear of the car.

Generally, the tours are available for adventurers and naturalists. The naturalists enjoy the beautiful scenery while the adventurers like to go hiking. And after a long day of exploring the wilderness, you can relax at the high-end hotels.

One of the cars that are sought by real car enthusiasts is the jeep wrangler. It’s known for its ruggedness and adventurous spirit. A satellite phone is included as the cost of the trip.

Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi

Whether you are craving a world-class roller coaster or you want a go-kart race, you can be sure of endless fun for everyone. Car enthusiasts can experience thrilling rides. You can also enjoy the elegance of bringing Ferrari to life. Don’t forget to leave without your piece of Ferrari – you can pick a souvenir from the impressive collection.

Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway Utah

Car enthusiasts from around the world travel to this pristine landscape to make their speed records. In 1914, the official speed was set at 141mph. And since then, the 630 mph barrier has been broken. The 12-mile stretch occupies 300,000 acres and has a salt crust that forms a perfectly flat race track.

Every year, the speedway hosts several events. If you’re going for sights, you should be mindful of the occasional afternoon rainstorms and high temperatures. For those looking for overnight accommodations, Wendover can be a great place.

If you plan to go to Bonneville, you should visit during summer – sunscreen is a must-have. During winter, the temperatures can go to sub-zero. If you’re renting a car, you should pay attention to the seasonal closures as salt can corrode the car.

Because the salt flats are perfect for photography, car lovers can bring their cameras. Some of the travel tips include when getting to the flats include:

  • Don’t go in the direction where signage prohibits
  • There are no vendors nearby, so you should buy food elsewhere
  • No overnight camping
  • Use the restroom before you get to the flats

There are many reasons car enthusiasts love this place. Just be prepared, and you won’t ever forget it.

Nurburgring Nordschleife track

Nurburgring Nordschleife

The Nurburgring Nordschleife is referred to by many as the `green hell’. This title came from Jackie Stewart, a Formula 1 driver. He described the wilderness that surrounds the track as `deep complexity’. If you’re a car enthusiast, you shouldn’t be afraid of the title. You’ll be thrilled to clock the 160MPH – at least once in a lifetime.

Nurburgring has been the go-to place for car developers who want to test their machines after completion. Here, you’ll find both new and renowned car manufacturers trying their best to set a new lap record. Some of the cars that have set the fastest laps are:

  • Mercedes AMG Black Series
  • Lamborghini Aventador SJV
  • Porsche 911 GT2 RS
  • Lamborghini Huracan Performante
  • Porsche 918 Spider

Whether you’re coming to the Nurburgring as a professional driver or co-pilot, you can be sure you’ll have lots of driving fun. Being one of the challenging race tracks in the world, any car enthusiast should expect an unforgettable experience.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Located in Uptown Charlotte, the NASCAR Hall of Fame spans 150,000 feet. It honors the history of NASCAR drivers and crew members who have shown exceptional skills over the years. The high-tech venue hosts car enthusiasts who want to get entertained. Some of the features that will keep you thrilled include:

  • Buffalo Wild Wings RestaurantHall of Honor
  • 278-person State-of-the-art Theater

If a driver wants to be part of Hall of Fame nominations, he must be active in NASCAR for 10 years.

MONACO Grand Prix vacation

MONACO

Any car enthusiast will see Monaco as a haven for supercars. Monaco is associated with exotic racing cars and formula 1 (both appeals to car lovers).

The small city is situated in France, but that should not bother you. Whether you like racing or you just love cars, this place will meet and exceed your expectation.

Monaco is not just your usual city. You can rarely walk down the stress without spotting a Lamborghini Aventador or Ferrari 458 Spider.

 

Havana, Cuba

If you’re a classic car enthusiast, you should visit Havana, Cuba. They host the largest car shows from the 1950s. This is home for cars like Fords, Dodges, Pontiacs, Chevrolets, etc. Today, Cuba is a living museum for classic cars. Even the old American autos are well maintained, so it’s uncommon to find something beautiful that dates back to the 1950s.

Experts estimate that there are around 60,000 classic cars in Havana. About 30% hail from the 1930s and are often heirlooms that are passed from one generation to another.

From the collection, you’ll find Russian-made Ladas. The Nissans have also entered the scene. Another common brand is Chinese Greely’s. Due to their minimalistic design, you’ll find tourists driving them around Havana.

There are also nicer cars meant for doctors and other professionals. And because Cubans are permitted to sell cars freely, you’ll find some sports cars. However, the government has set tight controls on new cars in the market, so the locals pay high prices. You’ll be surprised to find a new Peugeot going for as high as $250,000.

Since there are no replacement parts for cars, you’ll find some mechanics extremely craft in repairs. They can even use imperfect parts just to keep things running.

If you’re a true car lover, you can take a ride in touristy areas like Varadero and Havana Vieja.

Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas

Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas

This is an off-road attraction that features graffiti-covered Cadillacs. With the nose buried to the ground, you’ll find classics that date back to 1948.

The Cadillac Ranch is located on route 66 of Amarillo. For decades, car enthusiasts have been stopping around the highway to view the cars. Some of the cars have on the ground for a decade and feature battered frames that are barely recognizable as frames.

And despite the being located in an empty field, car enthusiasts are always welcome in the field. You can even bring your paint. But whatever you create will only last for a few hours before someone creates something over.

 

Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo has been home to the most prestigious races in the world. It boasts of circuits that run through the city. Over the years, the narrow course has undergone several changes, especially on the tight corners. The race track hosts some of the best championships.

What makes this place iconic for any car enthusiast is the narrow circuit. It’s nearly a challenge for all drivers who want to put their skills to the line. It gets harder when overtaking on the streets. If you just like watching, you can stand at the apartment blocks or Grandstand B that overlooks Casino Square.

Carhenge, Alliance

Carhenge, Alliance

Carhenge is formed from the American Automobile that is covered by gray spray paint. The unique quirky icon is open all-year-round, and can’t be found anywhere else in the world. In addition to that, various art sculptures appeal to many car enthusiasts.

 

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This is an automotive charitable event that occurs in Pebble Beach, California. Being the world’s premier celebration for car lovers, this is a non-miss event. You’ll have a chance to see the historic Porsche 719, ISO RIVORTA, and other iconic cars from 1953.

The dinosaur diamond Pre-historic highway Utah

The dinosaur diamond Pre-historic highway

If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy driving on the highway. It stretches 480 miles, from Colorado to eastern Utah. Also, the entire route is covered with canyons and rocky formations. And as you travel the route, you’ll see some incredible natural wonders.

If you’re a true car enthusiast, you may want to explore the above places. Whether you like racing or you just love cars in general, they won’t disappoint you.