From the August 1957 VIR race program: "The rolling Virginia hills have been painstakingly clad with an ultra-smooth skin of macadam to provide a course of great natural beauty. The superb spectator visibility is nicely equated to a road layout that will test the best in racing machines and men." In the late 1950s, a group of sports car enthusiasts dreamed of creating a first-class racing facility. The result was Virginia International Raceway, a challenging 3.2-mile course with 12 turns, 2 straightaways, and over 100 feet of elevation change. Located in southern Virginia, east of Danville and just across the North Carolina border, the track opened in 1957. During VIR's first 18 years of existence, races featured some of the top names in American motorsports including Carroll Shelby, Roger Penske, Walt Hansgen, and Richard Petty. The track also hosted numerous important events including SCCA Nationals, the President's Cup, a Trans-Am race in the first season of that circuit, as well as IMSA races in the early 1970s. Facing financial difficulties, the track shut down in 1974, and for the next 25 years VIR was a cow pasture. It was reopened in 2000 and the outstanding new facility is again one of the top racing venues in the country.

Discover Virginia with Moon Travel Guides! Journey through history with Moon Virginia, from bustling cities and small towns to colorful coastlines and misty mountains. What you'll find in Moon Virginia: Strategic itineraries for any budget and timeline, from two days in Washington DC to ten days exploring the whole state Detailed maps and handy reference photos throughout Curated advice for history buffs, foodies, outdoor adventurers, families, beach-goers, and more Must-see attractions and off-beat ideas for making the most of your trip: Visit Revolutionary War battlefields and hear the stories behind Civil War landmarks, or immerse yourself in history in Colonial Williamsburg. Stroll the Virginia Beach boardwalk or ride the coasters at Busch Gardens. See world-class museums and monuments in the nation's capital, wander historic downtown Charlottesville, or visit the homes of former presidents like Jefferson and Washington. Hike sections of the Appalachian Trail, explore underground caves, or kayak on the Potomac River. Sample authentic Virginia ham, kick back at a local pub, and discover the best spots for a romantic getaway The best road trips in Virginia, including the scenic Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway Honest advice from local author Michaela Riva Gaaserud on when to go, what to pack, and where to stay, from campgrounds to historic inns Recommendations for families, LGBTQ+ visitors, seniors, international visitors, traveling with pets, and travelers with disabilities Thorough background on the culture, weather, wildlife, and history With Moon's local insight, diverse activities, and expert advice on the best of Virginia, you can plan your trip your way. State-hopping? Try Moon Maryland. Headed to the Smokies? Check out Moon Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Exploring more of the South? Try Moon North Carolina or Moon Charleston & Savannah.

Award-winning travel writer Julian Smith knows the best way to experience Virginia, from canoeing down the Great Dismal Swamp and hiking the Appalachian Trail to noshing at the Carytown Watermelon Festival. Smith provides unique suggestions for trips such as the Two-Week History Tour and Outdoor Highlights for Active Travelers. Packed with information on dining, transportation, and accommodations, Moon Virginia has lots of options for a range of travel budgets. Every Moon guidebook includes recommendations for must-see sights and many regional, area, and city-centered maps. With guidance on exploring the deep forest of Douthat State Park and visiting the pretty, gingerbread-like houses of Onancock, Moon Virginia gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience. With expert writers, first-rate strategic advice, and an essential dose of humor, Moon guidebooks are the cure for the common trip.

Highlighted by photographs and useful maps, these readable travel guides offer insider information from local authors about diverse regions of America for weekend travelers and explorers alike, featuring helpful tips on dining accommodations and lodgings, transportation, shopping, recreational activities, landmarks, cultural opportunities and more.

The definitive, comprehensive guide to Virginia Beach, Richmond and surrounding areas, with hundreds of lodging, dining, and recreational recommendations. Explore this vital region—Virginia Beach and Richmond, the state capitol. Author Renee Wright offers extensive coverage of Colonial Williamsburg, historic James-town, and Norfolk, home to the great Atlantic Fleet. Includes special sections on Civil War battlefields, maritime history, Hampton Roads’ quadricentennial, and bird-watching opportunities in the region.