Affordable Family Fun Near Grand Rapids That Kids Will Actually Remember
We’re always on the lookout for fun, affordable things to do with kids around Grand Rapids. Here’s an old-school outing different from the usual summertime playground/beach/zoo rotation.
Berlin Raceway is only 15 minutes from downtown GR in Marne, is West Michigan’s only NASCAR-sanctioned track, and it’s one of our family’s most memorable summer experiences for the past few years.
We’re talkin’ fast-paced, up-close racing sure to speed up your heart rate.
Spending an evening at this action-packed venue is an amazing addition to your West Michigan Things to Do List.
If your kids love monster trucks, Hot Wheels, construction vehicles, or anything loud and fast, there’s a good chance they’ll think this is awesome.
And best of all, you really don’t need to know anything about racing to enjoy the experience.
Read on to find out how to spend a family-friendly day the Berlin Raceway.
Planning Your Night at the Races
On Saturday evenings from mid-April to mid-September, the race track attracts professional drivers, both locally and from across the country, who compete for cash prizes from $50 – $5,000. Special event evenings feature races with even higher stakes and larger payouts.
The gates open two hours before race time and the first 100 kids through the door get a prize!
You’ll find tons of fun activities for kids. We’re talkin’ face painting, balloon animals, air brush tattoos and their hilarious mascot, Bolt the Buck.
For some extra fun after the races, the Pit area is open for anyone to come meet drivers, get autographs & take photos.
Sometimes the action includes kids scooting around the track in go-karts and on other nights you might see modified street cars or stock cars warming up on the race track.
Stay Up Late: Summer Nights They’ll Remember
Want to keep the party going? Stay up late for the live music and fireworks! Bands play until around midnight after every race, and fireworks fly after dark.
Race Night Food Favorites
The downtime between races is your chance to sneak away from the grandstand to find good eats and drinks.
The concession stands offer tasty American fare like burgers and fries, chicken strips, kids meals, and adult beverages.
Food vendors, tucked under the grandstand, offer lemonade, popcorn, and plenty of other tasty goodies.
Gather for a drink at the Left Turn Lounge to enjoy the air conditioning, TVs, and vibe.
For a real treat, visit SipShine’s cute tiki bar and get a moonshine slushie.
Come back after the race for SipShine’s after party featuring live bands under the moon and string lights.
Pro Tip: BYO Food & Drink
If you prefer to nosh on homemade snacks … you’re in luck! Berlin Raceway let’s you bring your own food and drinks!
You’re welcome to bring in a cooler up to 18”, filled with anything except alcohol or glass. The friendly security staff will take a peek inside your cooler when you enter.
Stop by the Hall of Fame & Souvenir Shop
Before your visit is over, be sure to check out the Hall of Fame wall and souvenir shop.
The Berlin Raceway has been impressing fans for over 70 years and this is a neat way to take it in and become a part of this history.
Tips to Help You Maximize Fun
Every seat in the grandstand has a good view of the track, but here are some tips to make your evening even better:
- Bring sunglasses and a hat, and probably some sunscreen too. From the stands, you’ll be looking in the direction of the setting sun on these summer race nights.
- Wear ear protection. Pack ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones, or purchase them near the gate. The cars are very loud!
- Get comfortable. Bring a cushy seat to sit on or a blanket to wrap up in on chilly nights.
Host Group Outings at Berlin Raceway
Consider Berlin Raceway for your next company outing, quadruple date night, birthday party, or corporate event!
There’s a deck you can reserve, tents available for rental, and private suites, too.
The suites offer catering options, air conditioning, and the best view to watch the cars whiz around the track.
Ticket Info
One of the best things about the Berlin Raceway is that all kids 15 and younger are FREE! Plus, the first 100 kids through the gate win a prize!
Adult tickets are $15 if purchased online ahead of time and $20 at the gate.
Location: 2060 Berlin Fair Dr, Marne, MI 49435
FREE Parking
The raceway is connected to fairgrounds, so you’ll be parking in grassy areas instead of asphalt lots. Security staff will direct you to a parking spot when you arrive.
Expect a short walk from your car, through the grass, to reach the grandstand.
Parking is FREE!
Now That You Know, You Have to Go!
Berlin Raceway is west Michigan’s best kept secret for affordable family fun.
Whether it’s for a date night, corporate event, or a family night out, now that you know, you have to go!
Have you been to Berlin Raceway? Share your photos and stories with us!
living in grand haven for most of my life I have never been to the speedway, I love nascar
and I say to myself I should go to a Berlin race, but I haven’t ever been (shame on me)
But I will be their next week.