Dover International Speedway Can Fulfill Your Need For Speed
Twice a year, the Doubletree Hotel in downtown Wilmington caters to the thousands of fans headed to Dover International Speedway with the need for speed. Located just one hour from the track, the property offers a convenient and comfortable place to stay during either race weekend.
The speedway opened in 1969 as a unique facility designed to present motorsports events as well as horse races. The first stock car race took place during Independence Day weekend and was won by the legendary driver and seven time racing champion Richard Petty.
Crashed cars are a common site during Dover events and this led to the track being nicknamed the Monster Mile. Only the most skillful of drivers are successful on this tricky track and every race is an exciting experience for the fans in the stands.
In 2008, speedway officials dedicated the Monster Monument. Towering 46 feet tall in Victory Plaza, the glowing red eyes of Miles the Monster can be seen by passing motorists on Route 1. He strikes a menacing pose just outside Turn 4 with a full size stock car clutched in his raised hand. Miles greets visitors to the FanZone, a race fan paradise that sprawls over nearly eight acres. Here is where fans can get total immersion in the stock car racing experience with interactive attractions, sponsor sampling booths and souvenir haulers.
The property has undergone many changes over the years with the addition of Dover Downs Slots in 1995, the same year the track surface was converted to concrete. By 2001, grandstand expansions saw the seating capacity at 135,000, a number that surpassed any other mid-Atlantic region sports facility.
Lucky race fans saw their viewing experience elevated to the next level in 2004 with the introduction of the Monster Bridge. This glass structure hangs over Turn 3 and offers unobstructed views of the cars as they race by on track far below. The bridge definitely lives up to its hype as the most exciting seat in all of sports.
After an exciting day at the races, guests can return to the Doubletree Hotel and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat or enjoy a drink with friends in the lounge. The property includes a heated indoor pool and fitness center. High speed Internet access is available at no extra charge. Race fans will find everything they need for a memorable race weekend getaway.
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