There was a time when Rockingham Speedway, better known as “The Rock,” was one of NASCAR’s toughest proving grounds. Its worn-out surface chewed up tires, testing drivers like few other tracks could. Legends such as Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, and Dale Earnhardt Sr. all conquered its grueling challenge. But as NASCAR expanded, Rockingham faded into the shadows, losing its Cup Series date in 2004.
Now, thanks to renewed interest and a manufacturing boost in Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s home state, “The Rock” is roaring back to life. And this time, it’s not just the track that’s making a comeback. North Carolina is pulling out all the stops to make sure fans can enjoy the action in the most unexpected way.
All aboard the ‘Rockingham Special’
Once a cornerstone of NASCAR’s storied past, Rockingham Speedway faced a series of challenges that led to its decline. In 2004, NASCAR’s schedule realignments resulted in the loss of one of Rockingham’s race dates. The remaining event shifted to a less favorable February slot. This change, coupled with declining ticket sales and frequent weather disruptions, culminated in the removal of Rockingham from the NASCAR circuit after the 2004 season.
The subsequent years saw the speedway grappling with financial instability and ownership disputes. In 2016, plans to rejuvenate racing at the venue were derailed because of lease disagreements. This eventually led to event cancelations and further uncertainty about the track’s future. However, a turning point arrived in August 2018 when a group of investors, led by Dan Lovenheim, acquired Rockingham Speedway for $2.8 million. The new ownership unveiled ambitious plans to revitalize the facility. This vision received a significant boost in 2021 when North Carolina allocated $9 million from the American Rescue Plan for major upgrades. This included a comprehensive track repaving completed in December 2022.
These concerted efforts bore fruit in August 2024. NASCAR announced its return to Rockingham Speedway, scheduling a weekend featuring the Xfinity Series and the Truck Series in 2025. This marked a triumphant homecoming for a track deeply embedded in NASCAR history.
In anticipation of NASCAR’s much-awaited return to Rockingham, the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) Rail Division has introduced an innovative travel option for fans: the “Rockingham Special.” Scheduled for a one-day operation on April 19, this special train service will depart from Raleigh Union Station at 9 a.m. It will make stops in Cary and Southern Pines before arriving at Rockingham Speedway at 11:06 a.m. Return trips are planned to ensure fans can enjoy the race day festivities without transportation concerns.
Do you think fans will take the train?
Let me know -love the idea.
The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division announced today that NC By Train, the state’s passenger rail service, will run a special train from Raleigh to Rockingham Speedway for NASCAR’s return in… pic.twitter.com/O1245tGgIM
— Claire B Lang (@ClaireBLang) March 28, 2025
Tickets for the “Rockingham Special” are priced at $25 each way, offering an affordable and convenient alternative to driving. Passengers can purchase tickets through Amtrak’s website and will have access to food and beverages onboard. Plus, there will be charging outlets at each seat and free WiFi, enhancing the overall travel experience.
For the U. S Open Golf tournament in 2024, the “Open Express” train was introduced, and it ran daily between Raleigh Union Station and the Pinehurst Clubhouse near the Pinehurst No. 2 golf course from June 13-16, during championship play for the U.S. Open. This initiative was so successful that State Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins felt the need to revive it for Rockingham’s return. Joey Hopkins expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “After the overwhelming success of the Open Express to the U.S. Open in 2024, we’re thrilled to work with our partners at Amtrak and the Rockingham Speedway to provide another unique opportunity to take NC By Train to an iconic North Carolina event.”
He further stated, “Special trains like this provide the chance to introduce even more people to the amazing passenger rail service available in our state.” Amtrak Vice President Ray Lang echoed Joey Hopkins’ sentiment, stating, “We are delighted to work with the North Carolina Department of Transportation and other partners to offer this one-of-a-kind transportation option to the Rockingham Speedway.”
As fans eagerly await the roar of engines at “The Rock,” the introduction of the “Rockingham Special” adds a novel dimension to the race day experience, blending nostalgia with modern convenience. To book tickets online, visit the Amtrak website. Tickets are limited and available on a first come, first-served basis, so make sure you book them today!
We hope you have a fantastic time reliving NASCAR history at Rockingham Speedway! Whether you’re a longtime fan eager to see “The Rock” roar back to life or a first-time visitor experiencing its legendary atmosphere, this race promises to be unforgettable.
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