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| - This was my first time ever at PIR and my first-ever NASCAR race as well, so I was very excited about it and my friends I went with were really happy I could go, as they'd been wanting to get me out to a race for quite some time.
I like that parking is free out there. Crazy enough that ANY kind of sporting event is usually over-priced, between food/beverages/souvenirs, so the fact that parking is free is a benefit.
We hit up the souvenir booths and got souvenir shopping done first thing. Each of the vendors were friendly, outgoing, and really having fun talking to the fans and selling items. From there, we took all our goodies back to my friend's car, locked them up, and headed back in for the day's events.
So many awesome things to do and see out there! Many different food and beverage vendors for a variety of options is great, because if you want something outside the norm of everyday food or fast food, this place definitely has it, from Loaded Baked Potatoes, to Turkey Legs. Something to consider, however, is with as big a place as PIR is, you definitely want to be wearing comfortable shoes, preferably tennis shoes, walking shoes, or some kind of sneaker. We saw a lot of females in flip-flops but we also heard a lot complaining that they should have worn actual shoes too.
Also, being that the races are held in spring and fall, consider bringing sunscreen, especially if your seats are out in direct sunlight areas of the grandstands like ours were. Even on an overcast day, you can still come away fried like a lobster from the UV rays that come through overcast and even dark clouds.
If you aren't used to loud noise or have never been around a racetrack before, bring earplugs in case. I lucked out and the noise didn't bother me and my sensitive ears at all. I actually ENJOYED hearing the loud, powerful engines roar by on the track!
And, one more fab tip: There's not a bad seat in the house to sit and enjoy the beautiful mountain views and the races. It's all wide open and visibility is fantastic!
Getting in and out of PIR can be crazy if you aren't used to it, but I do recommend taking in a race and absorbing the whole experience and ambience of Phoenix International Raceway, especially on a gorgeous fall day. Take my word for it :)
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