Editorial Note: Nearly every year Road America makes enhancements to its historic facility, and here are a few new things awaiting fans in 2023.
Road America has worked to improve the experience since 1955
The overall vision of Road America grew out of the dreams of Clif Tufte, a highway engineer, who chose 525 acres of Wisconsin farmland outside the Village of Elkhart Lake for the track. The natural topography of the glacial Kettle Moraine area was utilized for the track and for fan viewing areas, sweeping around rolling hills and plunging through ravines. While countless facility improvements have been made over the years, the 4.048-mile, 14-turn road course itself is virtually the same today as it was when it was first laid out. Now in 2023, an entirely new surface stands ready for racers and enthusiasts alike. You can read more about the repaving of America’s National Park of Speed here.
New facility improvements to experience during the 2023 season
In addition to the new racing surface, there are numerous new facility improvements to check out when you visit Road America this season. From Wood Carvings to Paddock lighting to the Carousel Viewing Trail, there is no shortage of exciting new features to explore.
One of the most striking additions to Road America is the wood carvings located throughout the property. These beautiful pieces of art are the work of artist Ben Buschke, from Manawa, Wisconsin, who has been creating wood carvings for many years. From bears to eagles to wolves, Ben’s carvings capture the spirit of the Wisconsin wilderness and add a unique and memorable touch to the Road America experience.
Another exciting improvement to Road America is the paddock lighting provided by Wisconsin Lighting Lab. This innovative lighting system illuminates the pit lane and the paddock area, providing a safe and inviting environment for drivers, teams, and fans alike. With its bright and energy-efficient LED lights, the paddock lighting system is a testament to Road America’s commitment to sustainability and safety.
But perhaps the most exciting new addition to Road America is the Carousel Trail. This walking path (also golf cart accessible) circumnavigates turns nine and ten, providing fans with an unparalleled view of the action. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a fun and unique way to experience the beauty of Road America, the Carousel Trail is not to be missed.
Lastly, the newest and most popular attraction is “The Beach,” a casual and relaxed sandy escape located near Turn 11. With its comfortable grandstand seating, palm trees, and excellent vantage point, The Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and experience the thrill of the race.
