Osthoff Resort
RESORT · $$ · 5.5 km from circuit
Lakeside resort with full spa just 8 minutes from Road America's paddock entrance. Facilities include pool and restaurant.
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America's National Park of Speed. This 4.048-mile permanent road course through the Kettle Moraine is one of the longest and most challenging circuits in North America.
Road America is a permanent racing circuit in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The lap measures 6.515 km (4.048 miles) across 14 corners, run clockwise. Among its named corners are The Carousel, The Kink and Canada Corner.
It opened in 1955. Series racing here include IndyCar, GT and Road Course. Capacity is around 150,000 spectators.
Racing at Elkhart Lake began on the public roads around the village in the early 1950s, and the crowds were extraordinary for a Wisconsin farming community — an estimated 50,000 in 1951 and claims of 100,000 the following year, watching John Fitch, Phil Hill and Briggs Cunningham race between the hedgerows.
The state legislature then banned racing on public roads. Clif Tufte, a highway engineer, gathered local backers and members of the Chicago region of the SCCA, sold stock to fund the project, and chose 525 acres of farmland outside the village. The circuit opened in April 1955 and held its first SCCA national meeting that September. Tufte routed it over the glacial Kettle Moraine landscape rather than flattening it, which is why the lap still climbs and drops through ravines and has never needed shortening.
7 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
RESORT · $$ · 5.5 km from circuit
Lakeside resort with full spa just 8 minutes from Road America's paddock entrance. Facilities include pool and restaurant.
Visit websiteRESORT · $$ · 5.8 km from circuit
The legendary racing bar where drivers and fans have gathered since 1916, a motorsport institution. Road America is a 9-minute drive away.
Visit websiteRESORT · $$$ · 23.7 km from circuit
Forbes Five-Star resort in Kohler with championship golf, 19 minutes from Road America. Facilities include spa.
Visit websiteHOTEL · 24.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 28.0 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 29.0 km from circuit
Visit websiteRESORT · 30.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) — approximately 109 km from the circuit
There is no bus or rail service to Road America, so a car is essential. General parking is free with an event ticket and preferred parking runs about $25. Taxis serve the track from Sheboygan, Plymouth and Elkhart Lake.
Hotels near Road America typically sell out 2-4 months before major race weekends, including the race weekend. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during race weekends, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Elkhart Lake centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Road America offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Road America for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The circuit holds up to 150,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Road America is located in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The nearest airport (MKE) is approximately 109 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 7 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during major race weekends at Road America, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Booking 2-4 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Road America provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 2-4 months before the race weekend at Road America. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.