Speedway

The Walt Disney World Speedway is home to the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Like it’s twin at the Daytona International Speedway about 75 minutes northeast, this experience is the type we refer to as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. The track is a one mile tri-oval track. The Speedway is located at the back end (south end) of the Magic Kingdom parking lot. It is immediately visible to the left as you pass the Magic Kingdom ticket gates. There are a number of professional races held here each year. When those are not going on, visitors can pay for the opportunity to learn how to drive and then drive a NASCAR style car. There are four specific experiences from which you can choose.

Ride-Along

Ride shotgun in a two-seat car as a professional instructor takes you on a simulated Cup Qualifying Run. The price is $109 plus state sales tax. You must be at least 16 years old to ride and proof of age is required.

Rookie Experience

You’re the driver for eight laps around the Speedway. This is a three hour program. Price is between $399 and $449 plus state sales tax. You must be at least 18 years old to drive and proof of age is required.

King’s Experience

You drive two sessions for a total of eighteen laps at high speed. In between you are given extra instruction. The price is between $799 and $849 plus state sales tax. You must be at least 18 years old to drive and proof of age is required.

Experience Of A Lifetime

You drive a total of thirty laps, broken into three sessions. Each break allows analysis of your driving line and and other factors, usually allowing you to increase your speed as you go. This may be the greatest thrill in Walt Disney World. It’s certainly near the top of the list. The price is between $1249 and $1299 plus state sales tax. You must be at least 18 years of age and proof of age is required.

NOTE: The prices vary based on season. The seasons run along the same lines as attendance and hotel rates. This is a partially separate entity from the Walt Disney World Resort, so some benefits, like charging fees to room keys, do not apply. Spectators are welcome at no charge.