Bristol Motor Speedway isn't just about high-speed racing action—it's a photographer's paradise and a family-friendly destination that offers countless opportunities to capture memorable moments with your kids. Known as "The Last Great Colosseum," this iconic venue provides unique backdrops that combine NASCAR excitement with genuine family fun.
The Iconic "It's Bristol Baby" Monument
Start your photo adventure at the most recognizable landmark on the property. The famed Bristol tower and It's Bristol Baby monument located near BMS Entrance 1 (North) serves as the perfect welcome shot for families. This towering structure provides an instantly recognizable backdrop that screams "we were here!" The monument's bold lettering and impressive scale make it ideal for both close-up family portraits and wide-angle shots that capture the grandeur of the speedway.
The BMS Fan Zone: Where Memories Are Made
The BMS Fan Zone is always a popular spot at Bristol Motor Speedway's NASCAR events that offer incredible photo opportunities throughout race weekends. The Fan Zone, positioned strategically at the North entrance, provides an interactive playground where kids can engage with racing-themed activities while parents capture candid moments. The area buzzes with energy, offering dynamic backgrounds of excited fans and colorful displays that make photos pop with authentic emotion. You'll want to check out all the entertainment at the Food City Fan Zone Stage too, which also provides lots of photo opportunities.
Track Views and Grandstand Shots
The speedway's unique concrete banking creates dramatic lines and angles that photographers love. Position your family along the grandstand areas to capture both the impressive scale of the facility and intimate family moments. The "Last Great Colosseum" atmosphere is palpable, and wide-angle shots from the upper levels showcase the arena's bowl-like design while including your family in the foreground. If you are a fan of drag racing, venture across the BMS campus to the legendary Bristol Dragway where boundless photo ops await.
Kids Club Photo Opportunities
Bristol Motor Speedway Kids Club for fun events, exclusive gear, and unforgettable memories provides special photo opportunities during race weekends. These exclusive events often feature driver meet-and-greets, interactive displays, and kid-friendly activities that create natural photo moments. The specialized kids' areas are designed with families in mind, offering optimal lighting and less crowded spaces for quality shots.
Special Events and Seasonal Magic
Beyond race weekends, Bristol Motor Speedway transforms throughout the year. The Food City Speedway In Lights offering more than 2 million lights during the holiday season creates a magical winter wonderland perfect for family photos. This seasonal event transforms the speedway into a dazzling display, providing opportunities for both traditional holiday portraits and unique racing-themed seasonal shots.
Pro Tips for Family Photography at BMS
Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting conditions. The golden hour shots during sunset races are particularly stunning. Encourage kids to interact naturally with the environment—their genuine excitement and wonder make for the most authentic photos. The Fan Zone's exclusive offers and content often include photo opportunities with sponsor displays and interactive elements that kids love.
Remember to capture both the big moments and small details. While the grand scale of Bristol Motor Speedway is impressive, don't forget to zoom in on your child's face during their first glimpse of the track, or their hands gripping the fence as they watch the action unfold.
Bristol Motor Speedway proves that racing venues can be incredibly family-friendly destinations. With its combination of iconic landmarks, interactive zones, and special events, it offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories—and the photos to prove it. Pack your camera, bring the kids, and prepare for some truly unique family photo opportunities that you'll treasure for years to come.
