Richard Petty Driving Experience

Do you feel the need for speed? Have you ever wanted to step into the shoes of Jeff Gordon or Bill Elliott? Well, look no further than the Walt Disney World Speedway and the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Here you can climb into the cockpit and experience the thrilling sensation of a 630 horsepower Winston Cup style race car.

The speedway at WDW is a tri-oval, 1 mile track with 7-10 degree banking; you may reach speeds up to 145 mph. There are three driving experiences and a ride-along program from which to choose:

Rookie Experience
Buckle your seatbelt for an exhilarating 8 lap ride around the speedway. Includes warm up, cool down laps and instruction. Classes are daily at 8am and 2pm. Run time is 3 hours. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and able to drive a stick shift. Reservations are needed.

King's Experience
This is an 18 lap ride, 5 hour program. Classes begin at 11am daily. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license, and able to drive a stick shift. Reservations are needed.

Experience of A Lifetime
30 laps completed over 3 sessions. You work on building speed and maintaining a driving line. Classes begin at 11am daily. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license, and able to drive a stick shift. Reservations are needed.

Ride-Along
Ride shotgun along with a professional driver in a two-seat stock car for a Winston Cup qualifying run. 3 lap rocket ride. *Make sure to close the visor on your helmet. Riders must be at least 16 years old or older. Ride-Alongs are available on a first come, first serve basis; approximately 1 hour after the start of each driving class (session).

All participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All programs will include a graduation certificate, lap & time sheet and a photo opportunity/purchase. Pit Entry is free and visitors are welcome. The track is open every day, weather permitting, except Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Experience may be closed due to inclement weather, testing or private events. It's advisable to call ahead to ensure the track is open.

Walt Disney World transportation offers a shuttle service from the Ticket and Transportation Center. If you prefer to drive instead, follow the signs to the Magic Kingdom. As you approach the toll plaza be sure to keep left. Mention to the toll attendant that you are going to the Speedway and you won't have to pay the parking fee. Once through the toll plaza, turn left at the WDW Speedway sign.

Prices for all experiences vary depending on peak and off-peak seasons, dates and times. For reservations, there is a $75 fee charged for any cancellations or changes made more than 30 days prior to the experience date. Cancellations or changes made less than 30 days prior to experience date are subject to forfeit of the entire experience cost.

Call 1-800-BE-PETTY (237-3889) for reservations or additional information.

Official Richard Petty Driving Experience Website: www.1800bepetty.com.

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Last Updated: May 9, 2009