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Top 24 Hotels Near Auto Club Famoso Raceway
33559 Famoso Rd Mcfarland, CA 93250
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bakersfield Airport by IHG
For guests in the Mcfarland region, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bakersfield Airport by IHG is a practical base, a location that makes for a well-planned visit.
Complimentary hydration setups at Holiday Inn Express lobbies provide coffee or tea, creating simple but consistent courtesy touches. Guest rooms highlight plush beds, blackout curtains, and climate controls, giving travelers restful nights across every stay type. Fitness rooms containing treadmills, weights, and mats provide travelers with clarity and balance for daily exercise on the go.
Fitness facilities, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi align with pools and meeting rooms, providing convenience and dependability.
Hampton Inn & Suites Bakersfield North-Airport
For visitors to the region, Hampton Inn & Suites Bakersfield North-Airport is a sensible base, keeping Auto Club Famoso Raceway an easy regional drive away.
Hampton Inn receptions combine seating clusters and community spaces, offering guests versatile hubs for regrouping and interaction. Each suite includes ergonomic desks, reliable Wi-Fi, and multiple outlets, giving business travelers supportive setups to remain productive. Pavilion-style lobby markets with frozen meals, bottled drinks, and snacks support convenience, helping guests handle daily needs easily.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, breakfast buffets, and outdoor pools provide flexible convenience for diverse travelers.
Wasco Inn Motel
The uncomplicated regional drive from Wasco Inn Motel to Auto Club Famoso Raceway in Mcfarland guarantees guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Wasco Inn Motel often presents direct parking, vending corners, and modest reception service that reinforce no-frills budget arrivals daily. Rooms may include climate control, microwaves, and compact fridges, helping travelers manage basic routines during short motel stays. Facilities may highlight compact seating, vending access, and laundry facilities that reinforce straightforward daily guest routines.
A stay may feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, exterior parking, and guest laundry, maintaining clear and consistent routines for visitors.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bakersfield North
The hotel's regional location is a strategic choice, serving as a sensible base with Auto Club Famoso Raceway within driving reach.
La Quinta lobby markets near reception provide easy access to packaged meals and drinks, simplifying routines for late arrivals. Each guest room presents flat-screen HDTVs, sofa seating, and bedside outlets, creating consistent balance between leisure and function. Fitness centers fitted with treadmills, ellipticals, and weights ensure travelers maintain wellness and balance during each trip.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pools pair with vending and parking, providing travelers with predictable balance across visits.
WoodSpring Suites Bakersfield Airport
From WoodSpring Suites Bakersfield Airport, Auto Club Famoso Raceway is an easy regional drive, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
At select properties, WoodSpring Suites highlights 24/7 staff support by phone, reassuring late arrivals that help is available. Suites highlight flexible layouts with dining tables, kitchen storage, and sleeping space, adapting to families or group travelers. Fitness areas combine treadmills, weights, and open floor space, letting travelers personalize workouts without needing outside gyms.
For families, refrigerators, stovetops, Wi-Fi, and laundry deliver consistency that supports group meals, chores, and connections.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bakersfield North / Airport
This useful function as a base is a central feature of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bakersfield North / Airport, because it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
At the lobby, Fairfield Inn groups tall counters with outlets, communal benches, and soft seating to support short meetings and device charging. Every suite provides plush bedding, quiet HVAC systems, and blackout drapes, ensuring consistent sleep environments that feel dependable. Fitness centers highlight treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights, ensuring travelers can maintain energy and balance while away from home.
Complimentary breakfast, parking options, indoor pools, and fitness facilities together create balanced services that ease daily guest routines.
Hyatt Place Delano
The journey from Hyatt Place Delano to Auto Club Famoso Raceway is a simple commute, a perk that adds to the overall sense of convenience.
Reception zones at Hyatt Place remain brightly lit and clearly signed, ensuring new arrivals know exactly where to go without confusion. Suites present sofa beds, extra lounge areas, and multiple TVs, offering expanded comfort for groups or extended-stay visitors. Fitness centers with cardio machines, stretching mats, and weights keep daily exercise routines simple and achievable for guests.
Pet-friendly policies, hot breakfast, and free Wi-Fi join with fitness centers and parking, creating dependable travel convenience.
Best Western Plus Wasco Inn & Suites
When travel in the Mcfarland area is a factor, Best Western Plus Wasco Inn & Suites's position as a practical base is a key benefit.
Best Western positions a lobby market near reception, letting guests secure drinks and snacks before keycards are issued and elevators are taken. Guest rooms, with medium-firm mattresses, crisp linens, and pillow variety, help muscles recover so mornings begin with steadier energy. Business hubs include scanners and office supplies, cutting last-minute detours while confirmations and ticket changes finalize quickly.
With laundry rooms, Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast service, extended stays preserve polish and pace while daily needs stay on predictable rails.
Best Economy Inn n Suites
In the Mcfarland region, Best Economy Inn n Suites is situated as a sensible base, which lends value to the guest experience.
Arrivals at Best Economy Inn n Suites may present a simple reception, complimentary parking, and vending access that emphasize day-to-day practicality. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Facilities typically include compact business centers, vending access, and laundry rooms that offer functional spaces for routines.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, vending areas, compact breakfast rooms, and laundry facilities, sustaining functional balance for travelers.
Sleep Inn & Suites Bakersfield North
This convenient base from Sleep Inn & Suites Bakersfield North lets guests to feel more in control of their schedule in the Mcfarland area.
At check-in, Sleep Inn positions seating near reception and visible elevators, so companions can wait comfortably while keys are prepared. Each suite offers a sofa bed, a mini-fridge, a microwave and a sizeable desk, helping mixed-use stays run without friction. Indoor pools pair shallow family swim zones, lap lanes and nearby seating so both exercise and child supervision fit easily into stays.
Between complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a fitness center, meeting rooms, vending and laundry, schedules remain orderly and reliable.
Motel 6 Bakersfield CA - Airport
The simple regional drive from Motel 6 Bakersfield CA - Airport to Auto Club Famoso Raceway in Mcfarland guarantees guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Motel 6 properties keep front desks staffed continuously, assuring late arrivals they will find service, keys, and orientation after hours. Guest rooms provide work surfaces or small tables, offering areas to write, read, or handle laptops without needing lobby facilities. Outdoor pools often include shaded seating and posted hours, helping guests plan short breaks that fit around road trips or errands.
Between free morning coffee, truck parking, and vending, plus Wi-Fi, amenities reduce errands while sustaining travel-day efficiency.
Studio 6 Bakersfield CA
When the primary destination in the Mcfarland area is Auto Club Famoso Raceway, Studio 6 Bakersfield CA's position as a sensible base allows the focus to remain on the visit.
Studio 6 highlights free morning coffee during arrival, reinforcing a consistent courtesy guests can rely on before their first full day. Every guest room supplies small work surfaces and chairs, supporting guests who need to complete laptop tasks, reading, or dining inside. Guest laundries pair detergent dispensers with folding space, streamlining chores so travelers complete tasks efficiently during stays.
Between vending machines, accessible features, and Wi-Fi, amenities reduce effort and support inclusivity for daily travel routines.
Vagabond Inn Bakersfield North
From the lobby of Vagabond Inn Bakersfield North, Auto Club Famoso Raceway is an easy regional drive, simplifying your visit.
Vagabond Inn Bakersfield North often highlights efficient check-in, readily available parking, and a compact lobby to keep arrival steps clear and simple. Guest rooms typically offer plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, helping ensure rest and privacy during each stay. Shared spaces may present breakfast areas, vending machines, and modest lobbies that emphasize reliable convenience for travelers.
Accommodations may feature Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reinforcing consistent routines across stays.
Motel 6 Delano CA
Upon leaving Motel 6 Delano CA, Auto Club Famoso Raceway is a simple commute, simplifying your visit.
Reception at Motel 6 emphasizes efficiency with concise procedures, so check-in steps remain straightforward even during peak travel times. Each guest room ensures entertainment and communication with televisions, cable channels, and Wi-Fi accessible to travelers daily. Lobby seating zones mix high-top tables with lounge chairs, giving options for quick laptop work or relaxed conversation between outings.
With pet-friendly rooms, free Wi-Fi at some sites, vending, and pools, properties adapt to varied travelers while staying consistent.
Rodeway Inn Delano
For a trip to the Mcfarland area, Rodeway Inn Delano's function as a practical base delivers a convenient and stress-free travel option.
Rodeway Inn offers simple arrivals with in-person check-in, printed keycards, and quick access to rooms through nearby corridors. Standard guest rooms are equipped with Wi‑Fi, cable-ready TVs, and functional seating to support work, play, or pure downtime. Laundry rooms may include soap dispensers or posted operating instructions, making them more intuitive for one-time users.
Refrigerators, microwaves, climate control, vending access, breakfast, and shared seating are among the most commonly offered perks.
Holiday Inn Express Delano by IHG
Because Holiday Inn Express Delano by IHG is a convenient base, guests can plan on an easy regional drive to Auto Club Famoso Raceway.
Lobby seating areas in Holiday Inn Express include long communal desks and lounge chairs, offering guests both comfort and utility. Each guest room offers ergonomic desks, supportive chairs, and Wi-Fi, ensuring professionals can keep up with tasks effectively. Lobby lounges featuring communal tables, lounge chairs, and bright lighting create orientation points that support easy connection.
Pet policies, Wi-Fi, and hot breakfast pair with business spaces and laundry, simplifying routines for both family and business stays.
Americas Best Value Inn Delano
The journey from Americas Best Value Inn Delano to Auto Club Famoso Raceway is an easy regional drive, a perk that suits regional visitors.
Americas Best Value Inn front-of-house teams commonly manage luggage storage at reception so early arrivals can explore unencumbered. Every guest room includes convenient storage niches, a luggage rack, and a clear dresser surface so packing and staging remain tidy and fast. Club lounges, where available, layer quieter seating with light refreshments and dedicated work nooks for low-key planning or breaks.
Between meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and lightweight event AV, small corporate gatherings and team check-ins can be run efficiently on property.
Studio 6 Suites Delano CA
The benefit of being a convenient base makes Studio 6 Suites Delano CA into a great starting point for the drive to Auto Club Famoso Raceway.
Entry-to-desk routes at Studio 6 are kept compact and readable, shortening time between arrival and room access for a smoother first step. All guest rooms combine flat-screen TVs with cable and Wi-Fi, enabling both leisure and productivity from the same straightforward setup. Vending and ice machines near lobbies reduce nighttime errands, ensuring guests can grab essentials without searching unfamiliar corridors.
With pet acceptance, guest laundry, Wi-Fi, and parking, properties adapt smoothly to families, solos, and long-haul guests alike.
Residence Inn by Marriott Bakersfield West
This sensible role as a base permits Residence Inn by Marriott Bakersfield West to be a peaceful yet connected hub before the easy drive to Auto Club Famoso Raceway.
Complimentary hot breakfast stations at Residence Inn highlight brand consistency, giving mornings reliable structure and guest comfort. Every guest room includes televisions, streaming options, and lounge seating, blending evening entertainment with restful convenience. Fitness centers with treadmills, weight benches, and stretching mats allow guests to maintain consistent routines that support daily balance.
On-site markets, fitness facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, self-parking, and breakfast buffets create reliable convenience during every stay.
Best Western Liberty Inn
This practical role as a base permits Best Western Liberty Inn to be a peaceful yet connected hub before the easy drive to Auto Club Famoso Raceway.
Best Western posts concise maps and QR guides beside the desk, turning first questions into routes for dining, transit, and nearby essentials. Each guest room may include blackout shades plus sheers, allowing flexible light control for late sleepers and early risers alike. Courtyards, where present, provide seating and seasonal heaters, creating casual regroup space that doesn’t pull guests off schedule.
From fitness rooms and Wi-Fi to meeting areas, parking, and EV charging where offered, trips blend wellness, work, and mobility reliably.
Towneplace Suites Bakersfield West
A defining quality of the Towneplace Suites Bakersfield West experience is its role as a practical base with Auto Club Famoso Raceway within driving reach.
Free hot breakfast in TownePlace Suites lobbies offers routine reassurance, helping guests begin mornings with dependable familiarity. Suites feature full kitchens, Elfa® closets, and microwave stations, offering flexibility, organization, and easy food preparation daily. Business corner provides workstations and a printer, helping guests stay connected and complete tasks with minimal disruption.
Wi-Fi, valet cleaning, and outdoor patio integrate connectivity, garment care, and leisure space to help guests steer into relaxation.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Bakersfield Central by IHG
This practical role as a base is a defining feature of Holiday Inn Express and Suites Bakersfield Central by IHG, because it frames a stay built around easy travel.
Markets in Holiday Inn Express hotels remain open 24/7, helping travelers secure late-night meals or quick daytime snacks with ease. All guest rooms feature plush mattresses, blackout drapes, and quiet HVAC systems, promoting restorative sleep for all travelers. Pools surrounded by loungers, towel stations, and umbrellas give guests versatile recreation spaces for family-friendly relaxation.
Connectivity with free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and fitness rooms pairs with pools and parking, making travel stress-free and simple.
Clarion Hotel Bakersfield
The value of being a practical base makes Clarion Hotel Bakersfield a useful choice before the easy drive to Auto Club Famoso Raceway.
With ATM access at certain properties, Clarion solves quick cash needs at check-in, avoiding detours before evening plans get started. Guest rooms keep multi-setting showerheads and consistent hot water, restoring energy between daytime outings and dinners even at peak times. Breakfast buffets at select sites add fruit, yogurt, and hot items alongside coffee, providing quick variety without slowing the morning.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and a fitness center, plus an indoor or seasonal outdoor pool, daily rhythms stay balanced from morning to night.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bakersfield Central
When regional plans include Auto Club Famoso Raceway, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bakersfield Central is a sensible base, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
Fairfield Inn positions a grab-and-go market and coffee counter in the lobby core so late arrivals secure snacks without wandering around. Guest rooms are equipped with ergonomic seating, strong lighting, and reliable Wi-Fi, supporting both productivity and balanced guest routines. Indoor pools include lounge chairs, towel racks, and safe layouts, creating reliable leisure spaces where families and individuals can unwind.
Guests benefit from 24/7 Market access, hot breakfast variety, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness centers, ensuring convenience around the clock.
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Auto Club Famoso Raceway Local Area Guide
Welcome to Auto Club Famoso Raceway, a legendary quarter-mile drag strip located near McFarland, California. This guide is for racers, teams, and spectators attending events at this iconic facility. You’ll find essential information about getting to the track, planning your event day, and navigating the surrounding area for accommodations, dining, and local attractions. Prepare for a thrilling visit by understanding the best ways to arrive, experience the event, and depart smoothly. This guide ensures you have all the local knowledge for a successful and enjoyable trip to Famoso Raceway.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Auto Club Famoso Raceway (McFarland, CA)
Auto Club Famoso Raceway is situated just outside the small agricultural community of McFarland, California, in Kern County. The raceway is easily accessible via State Route 99, a major north-south artery through California's Central Valley. Drivers heading to the track will typically use the Famoso Road exit, which leads directly to the raceway entrance. Parking is abundant on-site, but traffic can be heavy on major event days, especially along Famoso Road and the SR 99 interchange. The nearest major airport is Bakersfield Municipal Airport (BFL), approximately 30 miles south, offering regional flight connections. Driving from BFL to the raceway generally takes 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For those relying on rideshares or taxis, plan for potential wait times and higher demand during peak event hours, especially for departures. It is advisable to arrive well before your scheduled event start or qualifying sessions to account for potential delays and ensure a stress-free entry to the grounds.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Auto Club Famoso Raceway
Accommodations near Auto Club Famoso Raceway are primarily concentrated in Bakersfield, a larger city located about a 30-minute drive south. McFarland itself offers limited lodging options, often basic motels catering to agricultural workers. Hotel clusters in Bakersfield range from budget-friendly motels along SR 99 to more established chain hotels in the downtown and surrounding business districts. Many teams and participants opt for hotels in Bakersfield due to the wider selection and amenities. For those prioritizing proximity, booking lodging early is crucial, especially during major race weekends like the March Meet, when hotels fill up months in advance. Consider using map filters to identify hotels closest to SR 99 for easier access to the raceway. While Famoso Raceway is a destination in itself, the surrounding area is less about a walkable district and more about direct access from your lodging to the track.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Closest airport: Bakersfield Municipal Airport (BFL), about a 45-minute drive.
- Parking/arrival tactic: Arrive early on event days to secure preferred parking and avoid congestion.
- Walkable hangout: Limited; explore the raceway's pit areas and concessions during downtime.
- Rainy-day fallback: Check the official Famoso Raceway schedule for rainout policies and rescheduling.
- Regroup zone: Designated picnic areas or your team's pit space are ideal for gathering.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan your arrival to be at the raceway at least 1-2 hours before the first scheduled race or session. This allows ample time for navigating potential traffic on Famoso Road and finding convenient parking. Once parked, familiarize yourself with the layout, including the nearest restrooms and concession stands, before heading to your designated spectator area or pit stall. If you are a participant, allow extra time for check-in, staging, and any pre-race technical inspections. Staying aware of the day’s schedule posted at the track helps manage your time effectively. Consider grabbing a quick bite or drink upon arrival to avoid lines later in the day.
During the Event
As races begin, find your vantage point early. Popular spectator spots fill up quickly, especially around the main grandstands and the start/finish line area. Take advantage of breaks between races to explore the pits, grab food, or visit merchandise vendors. For participants, closely monitor the call-out boards and announcements for your next run. Hydration is key, especially during warmer months, so keep water readily available. If attending with a group, establish clear meeting points in case anyone gets separated. Enjoy the incredible sounds and sights of the drag racing action unfolding throughout the day.
Post-Event & Departure
After the final race concludes, exercise patience when exiting the grounds. Traffic will be heavy as thousands of attendees depart simultaneously. It’s often advisable to wait 30-60 minutes after the main rush to avoid the worst of the congestion, especially if you are not on a tight schedule. If departing immediately, be prepared for slow-moving traffic on Famoso Road and the SR 99 on-ramp. Consider alternative routes if possible, though options are limited. Reflect on the day's performances and plan your next visit. Many attendees opt for a late meal in Bakersfield to allow traffic to dissipate before heading back to their accommodations.
Things to Do Near Auto Club Famoso Raceway
Walkable
Auto Club Famoso Raceway
This is the heart of your visit, a legendary quarter-mile drag strip renowned for its history and high-octane events. Home to iconic races like the March Meet, Famoso offers thrilling drag racing action from professional to sportsman classes. Explore the expansive grounds, witness incredible machines up close in the pits, and feel the thunderous roar of engines from the spectator areas. Food and drink concessions are available on-site, providing sustenance throughout the day. Check their schedule for upcoming events, from classic car shows to intense drag racing competitions, to plan your perfect visit to this historic track.
33559 Famoso Rd · On siteFamoso Fruit Stand
A convenient and classic stop right near the raceway, the Famoso Fruit Stand offers a taste of the Central Valley's agricultural bounty. Stock up on fresh, local produce like stone fruits, grapes, citrus, and other seasonal offerings. It’s a great place to grab snacks for the event or pick up some edible souvenirs. Open daily, this stand provides a quick and authentic roadside experience, showcasing the agricultural heritage of the region surrounding Famoso Raceway. It's an easy stop on your way in or out of the track for a refreshing treat.
Famoso Rd · 0.3 mi5–15 Minutes Away
McFarland Historical Society Museum
Delve into the local history of this agricultural community at the McFarland Historical Society Museum. Discover exhibits detailing the town's founding, its connection to farming, and the lives of its residents. While small, it offers a quiet respite and insight into the region's heritage, providing context to the area surrounding the raceway. It's a brief detour for those interested in local culture and history, offering a different perspective from the speed and noise of the drag strip.
McFarland · 2.5 miCalifornia Living Museum (CALM)
Located in Bakersfield, the California Living Museum offers a unique zoo and botanical garden experience focused on California's native plants and animals. Stroll through exhibits showcasing desert, mountain, and coastal habitats, and see animals like coyotes, black bears, and eagles. It’s a family-friendly attraction providing a relaxing contrast to the high-energy environment of the raceway. Plan for at least a couple of hours to explore its diverse exhibits and enjoy a peaceful outdoor excursion.
Bakersfield · 25.0 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity of the raceway, the city of Bakersfield offers a wider range of attractions. Visitors can explore the Kern County Museum for broader regional history, enjoy live performances at the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, or catch a sporting event at Mechanics Bank Arena. The surrounding Kern County landscape also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, though these are typically a longer drive from Famoso Raceway. For most event attendees, the focus remains on the raceway itself, with dining and lodging in McFarland or Bakersfield serving practical needs.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Auto Club Famoso Raceway
Inside & Adjacent
Raceway Concessions
Directly within Auto Club Famoso Raceway, you'll find various concession stands offering classic event fare. Expect to find staples like hot dogs, burgers, nachos, popcorn, and a selection of beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day's racing action. These stands are your most convenient option for quick bites and refreshments without leaving the track. During major events, lines can be long, so consider timing your food breaks strategically between races or qualifying sessions. They provide essential energy for long days of spectating or participating.
Famoso Rd · On siteFamoso Food Truck Alley
While not a permanent fixture, Famoso Raceway often hosts a rotating selection of food trucks during larger events, creating a vibrant "Food Truck Alley." This offers a diverse range of culinary options beyond traditional concessions, potentially including tacos, BBQ, specialty sandwiches, and more. Keep an eye on the event schedule or signs upon arrival to see what mobile vendors will be present. It's a great spot to sample local flavors and find something a bit different to satisfy your hunger between races.
Famoso Rd · 0.1 miNearby Gathering Spots
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
Located in McFarland, Maria's Mexican Restaurant offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine. This casual eatery is a popular local spot, serving traditional dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and carne asada. It’s a good place to grab a hearty meal before or after a day at the track, providing a more sit-down dining experience than the trackside concessions. The friendly atmosphere and generous portions make it a solid choice for groups and families looking for local flavor.
McFarland · 2.3 miBurger King
For a quick and familiar option, Burger King in McFarland provides standard fast-food fare. It’s an accessible choice for those looking for a quick meal or a familiar taste, especially after a long day at the raceway. Easy to access from Famoso Road, it’s a convenient stop if you need a fast bite before heading back to your hotel or continuing your journey. This location caters to those needing a reliable and speedy meal option.
McFarland · 2.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Yokohl Valley Steakhouse" note="Bakersfield · 25.5 mi"] If you’re venturing into Bakersfield and seeking a more upscale dining experience, The Yokohl Valley Steakhouse is a notable option. Known for its quality steaks and fine dining atmosphere, it offers a sophisticated contrast to the casual environment of the raceway. It's an ideal choice for a celebratory meal or for groups looking to unwind with a more refined culinary experience after a day of racing. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
The$', Bakersfield
A beloved institution in Bakersfield, The $" is a classic diner known for its hearty American comfort food and friendly service. This long-standing eatery is a great place to experience local dining culture, offering a menu filled with breakfast favorites, sandwiches, burgers, and classic diner entrees. It’s a perfect spot for a satisfying meal that feels authentically Californian, providing a relaxed atmosphere for refueling after an event or before departing the area.
Bakersfield · 26.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Famoso Road can become extremely heavy and slow during major event ingress and egress; plan accordingly.
- McFarland is a smaller community with limited services; most dining and shopping are concentrated in Bakersfield.
- Weekend events, especially the March Meet, cause significant demand for hotels in Bakersfield and traffic on SR 99.
- Temperatures can soar in the summer; carry plenty of water and seek shade during breaks.
- Pit passes are often available for purchase, offering an up-close experience with teams and vehicles.
Weather & Seasons at Auto Club Famoso Raceway
- Winter: Winter in this part of the Central Valley is generally mild but can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings. Expect daytime temperatures to hover in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. Visitors should pack layers, including a jacket or sweater, and plan for potentially damp conditions as winter brings the region's rainfall. Event days can be cool, so comfortable, warm clothing is recommended for spectators and participants. Sunlight is usually plentiful during the day.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings warming temperatures, with daytime highs climbing into the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, while early summer sees temperatures escalating into the 90s. Mornings can still be cool, but afternoons become decidedly warm. Light, breathable clothing is advisable, along with sunscreen and hats for protection. While rain is less frequent than in winter, occasional spring showers can occur, so checking forecasts is still wise. This is a prime season for racing events.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer (July and August) is characterized by intense heat, with daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit and often reaching into the 110s. Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is essential, and staying hydrated is paramount. Shade structures are invaluable, and attendees should prepare for significant heat exposure, particularly in open spectator areas. Consider portable fans and ample water supplies for comfort during long event days.
- Fall season: Fall provides a welcome cooling trend, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the 70s to the 90s Fahrenheit in September and October. This season offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and racing events. Days are generally sunny and comfortable, with evenings becoming noticeably cooler, necessitating a light jacket or sweater. It's an excellent time to visit the raceway without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.
- Rain & snow: Rain is most common during the winter months (December through February) and can occasionally occur in early spring. Significant rainfall can impact track conditions and lead to event postponements or cancellations. Snow is extremely rare at this elevation and temperature range; the primary concern is rain. Be sure to monitor weather forecasts and official track communications for any schedule adjustments due to inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Raceway facility)
- Neighborhood: Rural Kern County
- Nearest airport: Bakersfield Municipal Airport (BFL)
- Parking: Extensive on-site parking available
- Walkable district: Limited to raceway grounds
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Limited in McFarland; ample in Bakersfield
- Pharmacy: Basic options in McFarland; comprehensive in Bakersfield
- Urgent care: Nearest is in McFarland/Bakersfield
- Downtime: Relax at hotel or explore Bakersfield attractions
- Pro tip: Bring ear protection; the sound of drag racing is intense.

