VISIT DARLINGON & FLORENCE

Visiting Darlington and Florence, South Carolina, is all about combining small-town Southern charm with the excitement of NASCAR.

Race weekends here, especially the Cook Out Southern 500 and the annual Throwback Weekend, turn this quiet town into a hub for motorsport fans. The track itself is steeped in history and offers a classic NASCAR experience with tailgating, fan zones, and plenty of on-site action. 

Away from the race, the town is small and relaxed, with local diners and a few museums like the Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum celebrating the sport’s heritage.

Florence, located just ten miles from Darlington, serves as the main hub for lodging, dining, and travel services. Most race fans choose to stay here because Florence has a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas. The Florence Center often acts as a base for fan shuttles to the track, making it the easiest starting point for visitors who don’t want to deal with parking at the speedway. 

When the engines aren’t roaring, Florence’s revitalized downtown offers coffee shops, Southern-style restaurants, and even local art galleries. For a taste of the region, classic Carolina barbecue is a must-try, and Wholly Smokin’ in downtown Florence is a local favorite.