Chicago is a city of firsts. From constructing the inaugural skyscraper in 1885 to welcoming the first Ferris Wheel at the World’s Columbian Exposition, it now sets the stage for the country’s first-ever NASCAR Cup Series street race. This highly anticipated spectacle promises more than just a 12-turn, 2.2-mile street race; it offers a weekend brimming with music, delectable local cuisines, and endless fun for attendees.

Residents of Optima Signature will only be a short walk away from the action when the race takes over Grant Park from July 1st-2nd, 2023. The carefully curated course runs through Chicago’s downtown streets, immersing visitors in the heart of the city. Starting from the iconic Buckingham Fountain, the race weaves through South Columbus Drive, Michigan Avenue, and South Lake Shore Drive. This route places drivers and visitors adjacent to some of Chicago’s most recognized architectural landmarks, including The Art Institute of Chicago, 333 South Wabash, The Congress Plaza Hotel, and One Museum Park.

The race weekend kicks off on Saturday, July 1st, with The Loop 121, spotlighting NASCAR’s rising stars, followed by the Grant Park 200 on Sunday, July 2, showcasing the biggest names in racing. While the races occupy only parts of each afternoon, artists such as The Chainsmokers, Miranda Lambert, and The Black Crowes are slated to fill the park with music between races.

If you haven’t secured your tickets for this inaugural event, you can find them here. And rest assured, if you’re not among the 50,000 expected attendees for the NASCAR Street Race, Chicago plans to host the races through 2025.