
A Cuban American’s Guide to Miami’s Little Havana
Master cantinero and co-owner of Café La Trova, voted one of the world's best bars, gives his top tips on how to explore Little Havana.
A motorsports mecca south of Miami, the Homestead-Miami Speedway is a premiere hub for fans of high-speed racing. This is the place in South Florida to enjoy NASCAR and IndyCar events, bask in the Florida sunshine, and enjoy the ambience of lakes and palm trees that surround the track—all just a short drive from Everglades National Park.
Designed with a hint of the Art Deco influence of nearby Miami Beach, the Homestead-Miami Speedway is a distinctly Floridian racetrack. The track hosts a range of events—from the NASCAR Spring Cup to the Firestone Indy Lights Series—and is known to draw motorsports fanatics from near and far. The track has more than 55,000 grandstand seats; pre-book tickets online. For a look at NASCAR Cup garages, the spotters stand, Victory Lane, and more, racing fans can opt for a behind-the-scenes tour. If you want to drive on the track, consider booking an auto racing experience.
The most convenient way to reach Homestead-Miami Speedway is to drive; general parking is free. The track is just a short drive from either US-1 or the Ronald Reagan Turnpike. The ride is about 1-hour from Downtown Miami and about 45 minutes from Key Largo.
The Homestead-Miami Speedway is typically busy on race day, but since there's no better time to visit, it's best to plan ahead. You should arrive early to find parking, grab tickets, and locate your seats. There may also be traffic as you enter the parking facilities, so add a cushion to your travel time.
The expansive wetlands of Everglades National Park, brimming with flora and fauna, are just a short drive from Homestead-Miami Speedway. Airboat tours and powerboat tours are the best way to see more in less time, including the mangroves, alligators, and plentiful tropical birds. If you don't want a formal tour, head to the nearby Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center for tips on planning the perfect independent day.