Size & Location
Barber Motorsports Park is a world-class racing facility located in Birmingham, Alabama. The park covers an impressive 880 acres of land, making it one of the largest motorsports parks in the United States. Nestled in a lush, green setting, the park combines modern motorsports with the charm of the Southern landscape. It is conveniently located near major highways and is only a short drive from downtown Birmingham and the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport.
The park’s spacious layout offers room for a professional racetrack, a massive motorsport museum, training grounds, viewing areas, and various event spaces. Whether you’re a motorsports fan, a casual visitor, or a corporate guest, the park’s size and accessibility make it a must-visit destination in the South.
Track Specifications
At the heart of Barber Motorsports Park is its renowned road course. The racetrack measures 2.38 miles (3.83 kilometers) in length and includes 17 challenging turns. This road course is designed for high-performance driving and racing, featuring smooth elevation changes, tight corners, and high-speed straights.
The track was designed by Alan Wilson, a well-known circuit designer, to meet the needs of professional racing events and performance driving schools. It is widely recognized for its technical layout and excellent maintenance. The surface is smooth, offering optimal grip for racing cars and motorcycles alike.
The track is used for a wide variety of motorsport events, including both amateur and professional races. Its configuration provides a thrilling experience for drivers while ensuring safety and accessibility for all participants. It is also equipped with multiple configurations that allow the course to be adapted for different events.
Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum
One of the key attractions within Barber Motorsports Park is the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. This 230,000-square-foot museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in motorsports history. It is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of motorcycles and race cars in the world.
The museum was founded by George Barber, a former racing driver and real estate developer, who wanted to preserve the history of motorsports for future generations. Today, it showcases over 1,600 motorcycles spanning more than a century, with hundreds on display at any given time. The museum also houses a remarkable collection of Lotus race cars and other rare vehicles.
Visitors can explore five floors of exhibits, featuring bikes and cars from different countries and eras. The museum is known for its detailed curation, informative displays, and stunning presentation. It is more than a collection—it is an immersive journey through the history of speed, innovation, and engineering.
Major Events & Races
Barber Motorsports Park is a hub for major racing events throughout the year. Some of the most notable events hosted at the park include:
IndyCar Series: The park is a regular stop on the NTT IndyCar Series calendar, drawing top drivers and large crowds.
MotoAmerica: America’s top motorcycle racing series holds events at the track, offering fast-paced action on two wheels.
GT World Challenge America: This series features high-performance GT3 race cars from major manufacturers like Mercedes, Porsche, and Lamborghini.
Trans-Am Series: Known for its muscle cars and competitive racing, the Trans-Am Series brings American horsepower to the park.
These events attract thousands of fans and participants from around the country and beyond. In addition to the main races, the park also hosts vintage racing events, club races, and manufacturer driving experiences.
Proving Grounds & Training Facilities
Barber Motorsports Park isn’t just about racing—it’s also a center for automotive education and testing. The park includes a 14-acre proving ground designed for vehicle testing, safety instruction, and product demonstrations.
These facilities are used by car manufacturers, law enforcement agencies, and professional driving schools. They include skid pads, slalom courses, and braking zones, all engineered to replicate real-world driving conditions.
The proving grounds are also used for new vehicle launches, tire testing, and advanced driver training. Corporate groups often book the facilities for team-building exercises and driving programs. The combination of a world-class track and dedicated testing areas makes Barber Motorsports Park a preferred destination for automotive professionals.
Spectator Experience
Visitors to Barber Motorsports Park can expect an outstanding viewing experience. The park was designed with spectators in mind, offering multiple vantage points to watch the action.
Natural embankments provide excellent sightlines along the course, allowing fans to sit on grassy hillsides while enjoying the races. There are also several grandstands and covered pavilions for a more traditional viewing setup.
Amenities throughout the park include clean restrooms, food vendors, merchandise shops, and shaded picnic areas. On race weekends, the park offers shuttle services, VIP hospitality areas, and family-friendly zones.
Unlike many racing venues, Barber Motorsports Park focuses on comfort and convenience. Whether you’re a hardcore racing fan or a family looking for a weekend outing, the park makes it easy to enjoy your time.
Landscaping & Design
Barber Motorsports Park is often referred to as the “Augusta National of Motorsports,” a nod to the famous golf course known for its beauty. The park lives up to that comparison with meticulously maintained grounds, lush greenery, and an artistic approach to landscaping.
Every corner of the park is carefully landscaped, featuring flowers, trees, sculptures, and water features. The attention to detail makes the environment as enjoyable as the races themselves.
Large sculptures and art installations are scattered throughout the park, adding a touch of creativity and culture. The grounds crew works year-round to keep the park in pristine condition, making it one of the most visually stunning motorsports venues in the world.
Additional Attractions
Beyond racing and the museum, Barber Motorsports Park offers several other attractions and programs:
Porsche Track Experience: This factory-backed driving school offers hands-on training in high-performance Porsche vehicles. Drivers of all skill levels can learn from professional instructors.
Vintage Motocross Courses: Enthusiasts of off-road bikes can explore the park’s classic motocross terrain, used for special events and vintage bike gatherings.
Driving Schools and Corporate Events: Numerous organizations use the park for driver education, team-building programs, and private events.
Cycling and Running Events: Outside of race weekends, the track is occasionally opened to local fitness events, including charity runs and cycling competitions.
These additional offerings make Barber Motorsports Park more than a racetrack—it’s a dynamic motorsports campus that appeals to a broad audience.
Conclusion
Barber Motorsports Park is a standout destination for motorsports fans and casual visitors alike. With 880 acres of space, a 2.38-mile professional road course, a massive motorsports museum, and top-tier facilities, it offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re attending a major race, exploring the museum, participating in a driving school, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, the park delivers an unforgettable experience. Its commitment to quality, beauty, and innovation has earned it a reputation as one of the finest motorsports venues in the world.
If you’re ever near Birmingham, Alabama, don’t miss the chance to visit Barber Motorsports Park. It combines the thrill of racing with the serenity of nature, offering a unique blend of excitement and elegance that few other places can match.
