Brainerd International Raceway: The Heart of Minnesota Motorsports

Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) isn’t just another track—it’s one of the Midwest’s premier motorsports destinations and a cornerstone of Brainerd Lakes tourism. With a history dating back to 1968, BIR has grown into a nationally recognized venue that hosts world-class racing events and offers an atmosphere you can feel from the moment the engines fire up.

What Makes BIR Iconic

As one of the largest racetracks in the Midwest, BIR is designed for serious competition and unforgettable spectator experiences. Its expansive layout features a world-class dragstrip, a highly technical road course, and versatile space for major events. On peak weekends, the facility comes alive with thousands of fans, high-speed action, and a level of excitement that sets it apart from any other entertainment venue in the region.

Events People Drive Hours For

BIR hosts an impressive lineup of events every season, ranging from grassroots racing to nationally sanctioned competitions. Highlights include:

• Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, where the world’s fastest dragsters reach speeds over 330 mph
• CRA Superbike Racing, bringing elite motorcycle competitors to the North Course
• Muscle Car Shootouts, a favorite for classic car enthusiasts and drag racers
• Bracket Drag Racing Series, one of the largest and most competitive series in the region

Whether you’re a lifelong motorsports fan or a casual visitor looking for an unforgettable weekend, BIR delivers high-energy entertainment from spring through fall.

The Campground Experience — and Why Some Fans Still Opt for a Vacation Rental

One of the things that sets Brainerd International Raceway apart is its legendary onsite campground. For many fans, camping is part of the tradition: the constant buzz of engines in the background, meeting fellow race lovers, late-night campfires, and waking up just steps from the track. The atmosphere shifts throughout the season—from family-friendly weekends to full-throttle social energy during major events like the NHRA Nationals.

Even with that iconic culture, some visitors look for a different race-week rhythm. Long event weekends can mean early mornings, late nights, and full days on your feet, so others choose a nearby vacation rental to balance the adrenaline with comfort and privacy. It’s not about replacing the BIR campground feel—it’s simply another way fans make the most of their trip.

A rental can offer things the campground can’t: quieter evenings, real beds, a place to cook meals, and room to regroup between race sessions. But for many, it’s all about convenience—having space for a group, keeping gear organized, or enjoying the lake before heading back to the track.

Keeping You Close to the Action

BIR draws fans from all over the country, and its location puts you right in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes region. That means when you’re not trackside watching dragsters, drifting, or road racing, you’re minutes from:

• Restaurants and breweries
• Lakeside relaxation
• Local events and entertainment
• Trails, biking routes, and year-round recreation

It’s a destination where racing culture and outdoor adventure naturally collide.

Stay Near BIR With SkyRun Brainerd Lakes (Short + Supportive)

SkyRun offers vacation rentals close to the raceway so fans can experience the best of both worlds—full days at BIR and comfortable evenings nearby. From modern homes to classic cabin stays, our properties put you within easy driving distance of the track, Nisswa, Gull Lake, and everything Brainerd Lakes is known for.

Browse options: https://skyrun.com/brainerd-lakes

The Full Brainerd International Raceway Experience

At BIR, it’s more than just watching races—it’s living the motorsports lifestyle for a weekend. Whether you’re there for the NHRA Nationals, Powercruise, road racing, drifting events, or bracket racing, each visit brings its own atmosphere and community.

Pair that energy with a stay that fits your travel style, and your race weekend becomes a full Brainerd experience, from roaring engines to lake-level calm.