History and heritage fill the Eastern South Carolina region. You can experience anything from Civil War re-enactments to some of the best BBQ in the area! Every small town in the area has something unique or special about it, and the little town of Darlington distinguishes itself from the rest of the state as the capital of stock car racing in South Carolina. Guests can experience the thrill of professional racing at one of the two annual Darlington Raceway events! So, get ready to experience burning rubber, speed, and excitement at one of the most storied racetracks in the country! If you’re venturing in from out of town, make sure you request your free copy of our I-95 Travel Guide! The pages of restaurants, attractions, and activities can help you turn your tedious road trip into a memorable adventure!
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The Top 2 Darlington Raceway Events
Darlington Raceway 500
This major Darlington Raceway event traditionally takes place on Labor Day weekend and packs in 500 miles of prime racing in the highest series of professional stock car racing. Big names such as Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Denny Hamlin are just a few of the famous drivers that compete at this event every year. More than 45,000 fans pack into one of the oldest stock car racetracks in the country for the oldest 500-mile race dating back to 1950, before the Dayton 500 began. Race weekend at Darlington is full of tradition, and that’s a big reason why it continues to be one of the most popular races in the country! You won’t want to miss it.
Darlington Raceway 200
While it may not garner the same publicity and attention as its older brother, the 200-mile race event at Darlington Raceway is a great option for those wanting to experience a day at the racetrack. Most professional stock car races that are 400 and 500 miles long can take a while for fans who are just getting into the sport, so this “abridged” event held in August is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the sport.
Other Darlington Raceway Events Things to Do
Speed and Feed
Racing fans and car enthusiasts will love this Darlington Raceway event that is full of food, live entertainment, and of course—cars! Speed and Feed takes place in November and includes a BBQ cookoff and tasting as well as a car show in the infield of the racetrack.
Darlington Raceway Museum
The Darlington Raceway Museum gives visitors an in-depth history of one of the most famous racetracks in professional racing history. Retired racer Harold Brasington designed and built the course in 1950. Fans and drivers nicknamed raceway “The Track Too Tough to Tame” because of the high corners resulting from the egg shape of the course. You’ll find out more about why Brasington designed the course this way and see memorabilia from past races in the museum!
Stay at Abingdon Manor!
So, you’re a racing fan who loves the roar of 40 cars zipping around Darlington Raceway, but you want a luxurious and peaceful place to rest your head at the end of the day. Historic Abingdon Manor is the perfect place to call home during your weekend racing trip. Our Inn is only a 30-minute drive from the track and offers a warm and friendly touch that you won’t get at most hotels in the area. A delicious dinner at The Dining Room at Abingdon Manor followed by a walk through the Latta’s charming village and neighborhoods is an elegant and relaxing way to cap off the evening. If you need an extra special touch to help soothe you and your significant other after a day at Darlington, you can indulge in one of our special amenities like a massage service or champagne in your room.
Start planning your weekend away at our Country Inn by booking your room today! We look forward to meeting you!
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