FAQ

Q: What kinds of events happen at PIR?

A: PIR has events that range from bicycle races to car shows, drag racing, sports cars and motorcycle road racing, motocross, IndyCars, GT Cars and more. PIR is a great location for commercial photography, is the background for movies and television shows shot in Portland, plus we host a huge Holiday Light show, and the largest weekly cruise in in America.


Q: Can I drive my car on the track?

A: There are several ways to put your car on the track. If you want to get on the drag strip, our popular Late Night Drags give you the chance to go racing. Run most Friday and Saturday nights from March through October, the Late Night Drags let you run for fun, race your friends or test and tune. Our regular Wednesday night NHRA ET bracket racing program is for points and purse. See the Drag Racing section under Events for more information.

If you have a sports car, you can come to one of the many Car Club events. These events allow you to do laps throughout the day. Look on our website at the Events section dates, and links to the clubs for more information.

And for a slow-speed tour of the track, come to the Holiday Light show evenings between Thanksgiving and Christmas for a 5-mph view of great light displays.


Q: Can I buy food at PIR?

A: Yes, we have great food and beverage, provided by NW Roots Hospitality All catering must go through NW Roots and you can reach them at (503) 894-2351.


Q: Can I bring food and drinks into PIR?

A: Yes, coolers are allowed, but please no glass containers.  Also it is illegal to bring alcohol in to a city park.  Alcoholic beverages are available for sale at major events to those of legal drinking age and with ID.


Q: Are pets allowed?

A: Yes, but dogs must be on leash at all times, and we encourage you to think twice before bringing pets, as the noise of the events can be a problem for them. PIR also has a dog off-leash exercise area in the north Broadacre parking lot, which is available except during events.


Q: Are drones (Unmanned Aircraft Systems - UAS) allowed?

A: In accordance with FAA regulations, PIR does not permit the use of UAS/Drones for any type of commercial photography or videography at any time on the facility.  UAS may be requested for private use photography or videography during events.  Information or requests for use are made through the PIR Office no later than two weeks prior to the event.  Direct your request to pir@portlandoregon.gov and 503-823-7223.  Approved operators must obey all polices pertaining to photographers when inside the PIR venue.  UAS will use approved Landing Zones and fly between 100 and 400 feet above ground level at all time during flight.

To access credential application and to view PIR Rules and Procedures: Click Here


Q: How do I get to PIR?

A: PIR is located just west of I-5 at Exit 306B. Also, there is an Interstate Max light rail stop right outside the gates. MAX runs from PIR as far east as Gresham, to the airport, downtown and as far west as Hillsboro. Downtown Portland is approximately 25 minutes from PIR on MAX.


Q: Do you have parking?

A: We have on-site parking for 2500 cars and another 2000 spots within easy walking distance. If you need handicap parking and have a valid handicap-parking permit there are areas set aside for you, as well as several wheelchair accessible viewing platforms.


Q: Where do I purchase tickets?

A: You can always buy tickets at the track entrance on the day of the event. Major events also offer sales through other outlets. Check on the PIR website calendar for pre-sale links, with the track office or the promoter.


Q: What is the length of the PIR road course?

A: 1.967 miles with 12 turns when using the Festival Curves chicane, or 1.915 miles with 9 turns without the chicane.


Q: Is there a motocross track?

A: Yes, the motocross track offers racing every Thursday night from April through September. There is no regular motocross practice however season to season one or two Thursday practice nights are scheduled.  Check the PIR calendar.


Q: Is there lodging nearby?

A: Yes, there are many hotels in the area. Click here to read our list of area hotels  


Q: When did PIR open?

A: Portland International Raceway opened in 1961 on the former location of the city of Vanport, which was destroyed by the Memorial Day 1948 flood. For more of the PIR history, go to ABOUT on the menu bar then select History.

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