Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Premier Motorsports Racing Destination in Minnesota
Brainerd International Raceway has been a cornerstone of motorsports excellence since its founding in 1968. Originally established as Donnybrooke Speedway, our facility has evolved into a world-class destination for drag racing, road racing, and motorcycle events. With a rich history of hosting legendary racers and major competitions like the NHRA Nationals, we provide state-of-the-art track facilities, premium spectator amenities, and immersive driving experiences. Our commitment to innovation is evident in programs like the Apex Legacy Series, which offers experienced drivers unparalleled track time. Over five decades, we've maintained our reputation as a premier motorsports hub while continuously enhancing our infrastructure to meet the needs of racers, fans, and event organizers.Our team combines deep industry expertise with a passion for racing to deliver exceptional service and operational excellence. As the only NHRA circuit track with on-site camping, we offer unique hospitality solutions that set us apart in the industry. Our 24-hour security protocols and comprehensive facilities management demonstrate our dedication to safety and guest satisfaction. Through strategic investments in grandstands, VIP suites, and modern concessions, we ensure every visitor experiences the thrill of professional racing in a well-organized environment. Our legacy of hosting record-breaking events and attracting top-tier talent underscores our position as a leader in motorsports entertainment.
Services
NHRA Racing Events
Drag Strip Racing
Road Course Racing
Apex Academy Driving School
Track Rentals
Camping Facilities
Motorcycle Racing
Event Sponsorships
VIP Suite Rentals
Racer Registration
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We host the largest NHRA event in the Upper Midwest annually
- Our facility features the only on-site camping option in the NHRA circuit
- We offer premium track programs with up to six hours of hot track time
- Our 24-hour security ensures guest safety during race weekends
- We combine 55 years of racing heritage with modern facilities
Services
NHRA Racing Events
We host premier NHRA drag racing events including the annual NorthStar Nationals. Our mile-long drag strip accommodates professional competitions and record-breaking runs. The facility features modern grandstands, VIP suites, and on-site camping for spectators.
Road Course Racing
Our 3.1-mile Donnybrooke Road Course hosts professional motorcycle and car racing events. The track features safety barriers and run-out areas for competitive racing. We accommodate SCCA licensing schools and private driving instruction programs.
Apex Academy Driving School
We offer professional driving instruction through Apex Academy. The program provides track time for experienced drivers with limited run groups and efficient event management. This premium program focuses on performance driving skills development.
Track Rentals
Our facility offers track rentals for private racing events and motorsports competitions. The venue includes multiple racing configurations, camping areas, and hospitality options. We support event planning from technical requirements to spectator accommodations.
Camping Facilities
We provide 200+ acres of rustic camping and 164 full-service RV sites. The PleasureLand RV Campground includes shower facilities, food services, and proximity to racing action. Our camping options cater to both casual fans and extended-stay race enthusiasts.
Questions
What major racing events does Brainerd International Raceway host annually?
We host the NHRA Lucas Oil Nationals, NorthStar Nationals, SCCA licensing schools, motorcycle racing events, and the Apex Legacy Series track days throughout our racing season.
Can I rent the track for private racing events?
Yes, we offer track rental options for private racing events with customized packages that include facility access, safety protocols, and event staffing support.
What camping options are available at the raceway?
We offer 200+ acres of rustic camping and 164 full-service RV sites with amenities including shower trailers, food service, and 24-hour security during race weekends.
Do you provide driving instruction programs for performance drivers?
Our Apex Academy offers driving instruction programs designed for experienced drivers seeking advanced track time with structured run groups and professional coaching.
What are the facility's operating hours for general inquiries?
Our front office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Central Time for general inquiries and event information.
Reviews (7)
Angie Flasch
Jun 23, 2022
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Came here for the street outlaws. it was awesome. we all had a great time. I would recommend this raceway in Minnesota.
Aaron Hansen
Jun 19, 2022
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Tickets for the NPK race were very misleading. Even with a "VIP" ticket we got to stand outside and get yelled at by staff repeatedly after 2 hours and 3 lines. Was thinking about coming back for the nationals but I believe I won't be back.
Terry Kuehn
Jun 18, 2022
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I went there for the NPK races Friday! I had general admission tickets which was fine but then they charged 20.00$ for parking on top of the tickets and it was the furthest away parking instead of parking as we came they run you all the way back forty for being on time to the event and had bought tickets in advance no break on parking! They didn't have any shuttle's to the prepay area or nothing in place!
When they setup the event they didn't use the tunnel under the track to help people get to the stands on the South side only seating! That would of been nice at the end of the day to get back to the far North parking area it just didn't make much sense to me how they setup things for the Fans!
When they setup the event they didn't use the tunnel under the track to help people get to the stands on the South side only seating! That would of been nice at the end of the day to get back to the far North parking area it just didn't make much sense to me how they setup things for the Fans!
French Toast Mafia
Jun 15, 2022
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Getting pretty dated. Showers and bathrooms need major improvements. The temporary facilities are way past their life. Definitely roughing it when you camp in the zoo. When multiple events are going on, the front gate staff needs to be more organized. They call, or don't know, when someone needs to get in sooner than the regular gate hours to work. Been coming up here for over 25 years, and seems like new issues each year.
Rick Weber
Jun 05, 2022
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Haven't been here since 2016 but went to the nationals here about 15 times since 89. The best time ever at This track. Shirley's fuel dragster gave me my first nitro bath. You gotta go to the zoo.
Anna Deblieck
Mar 18, 2022
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First time going there back in September and planned the big trip 3 months in advance before going. Got tickets for a special event and when we arrived there are little to no directions. No maps. No information at all from anyone and I asked multiple staff on where to go and they all had no idea. And the races were already over even though I was told the specific hours for this event and we arrived early for the day. Beyond disappointing especially for the reason why we planned this trip. Honestly, I think this will be our first and last trip. More raceways in mn that offer better experiences.
Joshua Bristlin
Sep 09, 2021
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Great place for the races, the rv park "overflow" area is really fun, and so large you can almost get lost. Staff were pretty friendly and helpful. This was a great experience and this track is a must of anyone who is a drag racing fan. NHRA and brainerd international raceway made this a great experience. Thank you!