The stock car ride-along at Pocono Raceway is one of the most adrenaline-heavy activities available in the Poconos, and it needs no prior driving experience. You are fitted with a helmet and safety gear, strapped into the passenger seat of a real race-prepared stock car and taken around the 2.5-mile track by a professional driver at racing speed. The experience typically runs three laps in its most accessible form, with longer ride-alongs and drive-it-yourself options available at higher prices. The sensation of speed on the banked corners, with the sound of the engine inside the cabin, is what most participants remember. The program is designed for fans and for those who simply want a thrilling gift or group outing. Sessions run on scheduled dates when the track is not in use for racing, and bookings are usually made in advance through the operator. The day begins with check-in, a safety briefing and fitting, followed by the ride, and many participants take photographs of the cars and the track before they leave. Because the car is built for racing rather than comfort, the ride is noisy and physical, with strong lateral forces in the turns.
Eligibility rules matter. Participants must meet minimum age and height requirements, and weight or fitness limits may apply because of the safety harness and seating. Wear comfortable clothes with closed shoes, long pants and a light layer, and avoid loose items that could fly around the cabin. Glasses should be secured or removed, and the safety briefing will cover what to do. If you have a medical condition such as heart problems, back or neck issues, or you are pregnant, check with the operator before booking and consider whether the experience is suitable.
Booking tips
Dates fill on warm weekends, and the schedule depends on the track calendar, so reserve well ahead if you are targeting a particular day. Confirm the check-in time and arrive early, since delays can disrupt the day. Weather can lead to rescheduling, so read the cancellation policy, and keep flexibility if you are traveling from far away. The activity is normally a standalone booking, so you can combine it with other plans in the area, such as a visit to Jim Thorpe or a waterfall walk.
Cost is the other consideration. The ride-along is a premium activity, and the price rises quickly if you choose longer packages or the drive-it-yourself formats. For most visitors the shortest ride-along gives the key thrill, and it is an easier way to get onto the track than a full driving school. Group bookings and gift options are common, and the experience is popular as a birthday or celebration activity.
Spectators in your party can usually watch from the pit area or grandstand, depending on the event rules, so you do not need to bring a group of equally keen riders. Photographs and video are often permitted from the sidelines, and some operators offer on-board cameras. For motorsport fans in particular, the combination of a ride-along and a race weekend ticket makes a memorable trip that shows both sides of the sport.
What to expect
The experience
A passenger ride with a professional driver in a race-prepared stock car around the Pocono Raceway superspeedway.
Best time
Warm-weather weekdays and weekends when the track is open; book ahead.
How long
About one to two hours including check-in, briefing and the ride.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and long pants, check age and height rules, and arrive early.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Motorsport fans and thrill seekers who want a real track experience.
- Families
- For older children and teens who meet the age and height rules.
- Couples
- A memorable shared adventure or gift.
- Pair with
- Pocono Raceway events or a rafting trip.
- Time needed
- Half a day including travel.
Good questions
Do I need driving experience?+
No. In the ride-along you are a passenger with a professional driver.
How fast do the cars go?+
They run at racing speeds on the superspeedway, and the sensation is intense.
Are there age or height rules?+
Yes. Minimum age and height requirements apply, so check when you book.
Can spectators watch?+
Often yes from designated areas, subject to track rules.
Are there longer options?+
Yes. Longer ride-alongs and drive-it-yourself experiences are available at higher prices.
