Canada has established a prestigious Motorsport Hall of Fame to honor exceptional drivers from across the country. Ontario, in particular, has a strong connection to motorsports, boasting numerous speedways. Among them, ten stand out as favorites among racing enthusiasts.
Toronto Motorsports Park is a must-mention when discussing Canadian speedways. This extraordinary venue features both a drag strip and a 3 km track, making it a dream come true for racing fans. People from all corners of the globe flock to this speedway, where they can either bring their own cars or rent one to put their skills to the test. Before hitting the track, a mandatory test ensures that only those with ample knowledge can experience the thrill of racing on one of Ontario’s top speedways.
Kawartha Downs, in 1999, added a speedway to its racing venue, quickly capturing the hearts of Canadian race fans. In 2007, this 3/8-mile track hosted the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series finale, solidifying its status as a beloved location. What sets Kawartha apart is its versatility, offering a wide range of racing options. From horseracing to soap box cars, every type of racing enthusiast can find something to enjoy at Kawartha.
Merrittville Speedway, which opened its doors in 1952, holds the distinction of being Canada’s longest-running race track. Located near Niagara Falls, this speedway is renowned for its sprint car, stock car, and modified races. The track itself is a 3/8-mile dirt short track and frequently hosts events from the Super DIRTcar Series. Fans of smaller-scale racing will delight in visiting Merrittville on Tuesday nights, when the weekly karting series takes place.
Sauble Speedway, situated in Hepworth, Ontario, is a 1/4-mile short track. During the summer, it becomes a haven for beachgoers who also have a passion for racing. Spend the day at Sauble Beach, and as the sun sets, head to the track for an exhilarating night of stock car racing. Originally a dirt track when it opened in 1969, Sauble Speedway was later paved. NASCAR fans should definitely include this track on their must-visit list, as it received official sanctioning from the group in 2018.
For an unforgettable racing experience, make your way to Brighton, Ontario, and immerse yourself in the excitement of Brighton Speedway. This dirt track offers over 20 nights of racing throughout the summer, ensuring ample opportunities for racing enthusiasts to indulge in their passion. If you’re feeling lucky, consider placing a bet on a race, adding an extra thrill to your experience. With pit admission, you can get up close to the racers and their cars, allowing you to make the most informed wager possible.
Glenn Styres, a Canadian NASCAR driver, constructed Ohsweken Speedway on his family’s property within the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation Reserve in 1994. The venue immediately achieved success and has steadily expanded each year. Ohsweken can accommodate over 8,000 spectators who gather to witness racers compete on its 3/8-mile dirt track.
In Ontario, longer racetracks are not as prevalent, but Calabogie Motorsports Park stands as an exception. This relatively new 5.05 km road circuit debuted in 2006 and swiftly gained popularity among both racers and fans. Additionally, Calabogie serves as a testing ground for Ford and Harley-Davidson outside of its sporting events.
Sunset Speedway in Innisfil, Ontario hosts NASCAR’s Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, but it offers more than just that. Located less than an hour north of Toronto, this venue provides weekly Saturday night races during the summer season. Furthermore, Sunset features special events such as NASCAR Pinty’s Series, Hot Rods, and OSCAAR Modifieds, making it a compelling destination for racing enthusiasts.
Grand Bend Motorplex, a versatile facility in Ontario, hosts drag racing’s longest-running event. This venue encompasses a 1/4-mile track that has witnessed races from the IHRA Championship, along with motocross tracks. Beyond racing, Grand Bend Motorplex offers a campground, a kid’s play area, and serves as a venue for concerts and other festival events.
Although Canadian Tire Motorsport Park has undergone name changes over the years, it remains a remarkable destination among the speedways on this list. What sets Canadian Tire apart are the additional features it offers beyond the racetrack, such as a race driver training facility and a skid pad.
Regardless of your preference for motorsports, Ontario offers a variety of venues where you can indulge in the excitement of a race. If you have been inspired by racing movies and wish to experience the thrill firsthand, there are even opportunities to learn the intricacies of the sport. Whether you are a resident of Ontario or a visitor, be sure to include one of these speedways on your itinerary!