Located at 6570 Bruton Smith Blvd, Concord, NC 28027, zMAX Dragway is a state-of-the-art drag strip that opened its doors in 2008. This four-lane concrete drag strip is situated conveniently across from Charlotte Motor Speedway and is renowned for hosting NHRA national events.
As part of your race-week experience, zMAX Dragway offers thrilling drag racing action that attracts fans from all over. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or new to the sport, the atmosphere is electric and perfect for a day out with friends or family.
Before your visit, we recommend checking the venue's official website for the latest schedules, bag policies, and parking information to ensure a smooth experience.
For more details on race-day planning, watch parties, and events happening around the Charlotte Motor Speedway, visit All Star Race Party, your independent guide to all things racing in Concord, NC.
What to Expect on a Drag Racing Day at zMAX
Drag racing feels very different from the oval racing across the street, and knowing the rhythm of the day helps first-timers get the most out of it. Instead of one long race, the program is made up of hundreds of short side-by-side runs over a straight quarter-mile or eighth-mile, each lasting just seconds. Cars move from the staging lanes to the burnout box, warm their tyres, then line up at the starting line, known as the Christmas tree, for the launch. The action comes in quick bursts, so there is rarely a long wait between runs.
Qualifying versus eliminations
At national events, the early sessions are usually qualifying, where drivers chase their quickest elapsed times to earn a spot and seeding in the field. Eliminations follow, run as a knockout bracket: win and you advance, lose and you are done. If you can only attend one day, eliminations tend to deliver the most drama, while qualifying days are often quieter and can be easier for families.
Protect your ears
Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars are among the loudest machines in motorsport, and the sound is felt as much as heard. Good ear protection is essential for everyone, and over-ear defenders are worth bringing for children. Foam earplugs alone may not feel like enough near the starting line.
Pits and practical tips
One of the best parts of drag racing is pit access, where many events let ticket holders walk among the teams and watch crews rebuild engines between rounds. Check your ticket type to see what is included. Concrete grandstands and open pits can get hot in North Carolina spring and summer, so bring sun protection and water where the venue allows it, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
If you are combining a dragway visit with a race weekend at the speedway, our Plan Your Visit guide covers traffic and timing around Concord, and the Tickets page explains how to buy safely through official channels.