As Race Season Wraps, Here’s 10 things You Can Still do at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Though the major event season is behind us, there's still numerous reasons to visit the race track and recreation area. Here are just a few...

1. Explore the trails or take in the wildlife

   The Laguna Seca Recreation Area opens up to miles and miles of trails in Fort Ord but you don’t have to leave the property to get into nature. We took a survey from the team of all the wildlife we saw on property this year and it included Red Tailed Hawks, Bobcats, Cougars, Blue Herons, 6-pointed Deer, Black-tailed Jackrabbits and more!
   
   

   

   Stargaze with the whole family at the next Race to Space event.

2. Star gazing
   Winter is the perfect time to grab a blanket, make some hot cocoa and take in the amazing sky above us. The Laguna Seca Recreation area offers a wide viewing area outside of the twinkling hillsides of Monterey or Salinas. But if you’re not sure what to look for, you don’t have to be left in the dark. Monterey Institute of Research and Astronomy is returning for the third “Race to Space” community event on November 23^rd from 5:30 – 8:30 pm. This group of both pro and amateur astronomers bring their telescopes out to the island for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check out the details and then head out for a fun night with family or friends.

3. Ride your bike

   There is a reason The Sea Otter Classic takes place here in the spring. Laguna Seca Recreation Area is a fantastic place to explore on two wheels. Whether you want to beat your best lap at a Twilight Cycling event (the final one of 2024 is Wednesday, October 9^th) or take it off-road on one of the hillside trails. Pay a day use fee anytime to come in the main gate or pedal your way in from Fort Ord for free entrance because YOU’VE EARNED IT!
   
   

   

   Every rig, every ride, everybody loves a Cars & Coffee.

4. Sip coffee and give back with the gearheads

   There is no better place for a Cars & Coffee meet up than at the track! Not only do you get to see way more cars than can fit in any other parking lot, but you also get to feel good and give back since the events have become fundraising events for the local non-profits.  The last Cars & Coffee of 2024 will be another spectacular Toy Drive and fundraising effort this time for Seneca Family of Agencies. There will be food, Captain & Stoker coffee, hot cocoa, Tanimura & Antle will be giving out produce and a fire engine will be displayed as well.  See you bright and early on December 7^th at 7:30 am for this special holiday Cars & Coffee.

5. Camping

   We cannot say enough about how beautiful it is in our little Monterey Peninsula, and we think we’ve got the best view in the house. Rolling green hills and miles of trails with the Salinas Valley and Monterey Bay peaking out just beyond the hilltops.

6. Take a class or take your car on track

   There are so many opportunities to enjoy racing but the best seat in the house is always the driver’s. Get out of the grandstands and onto the track. Both Skip Barber and Allen Berg Racing Schools come to Laguna Seca and both will be offering holiday discounts for Black Friday. Why not start your journey into getting a license? Or if you need to start with the basics, BRAKES teen driving school and Pacific Motorcycle training will both be at the track in the upcoming months.

   Already have a license and a vehicle you’ve been itching to drive down the Corkscrew? Well Turn 8 Racing, Speed SF, Hooked on Driving, Track Time and more are all great organizations that set you up for speed right here on your favorite circuit. Check the calendar on the website and click the links for more information.
   

   

   MG1 Motorsports brings GT3s and more.

7. Still plenty of racing

   The major event season might be over but there is still a lot of action to see on track. Karting returns to Laguna Seca for the first time in years this upcoming weekend with the Northern California Karters October 12 – 13. But check the calendar on the website and come by to watch racing from some of these great organizations: AS3 Racing, Multimatic, Golden Gate Lotus Club, Shelby club and MG1 Motorsports.
   
   

   

   Montage Health had a ball at the pavilion earlier this year! Photo provided by Montage Health

8. Party in the pavilion

   Winter is the time of celebration. Whether you are celebrating the holidays, the successes of the year, the beginning of the next or something else, the Hospitality Pavillion is the perfect setting for your next party. The pavilion can host up to 350  guests or be divided into two smaller rooms for multiple uses. There is outdoor space available on the deck overlooking the track or from the roof with a 360* view of the surrounding hillside.

9. Turkey Trot for a cause

   The annual Turkey Trot, presented by Montage Health, returns Thanksgiving Morning. Meet in the paddock by the main gate and walk, run, or wobble down the Corkscrew to earn that extra helping of stuffing. Bring non-perishable food items or $10 per person donations to the Monterey County Food Bank. You can go around the track as many times as you'd like from 7 am - 11 am. Bring the whole family and dogs are permitted on a leash. (Please clean up after them!)
   
   

   

   We love this vintage design at the Official Raceway Store.

10. Shop ‘til you drop
    Come and check out the Official Raceway store any day of the week to pick up memorabilia from your favorite race this season or to get your holiday shopping done early for your favorite racing fan. clothing, posters, wine glasses, backpacks, blankets, toys, mugs, mousepads, and so much more. There’s something for everyone so fill your house with all things Laguna Seca if you’d like!