Thursday, April 27, 2006

Why: NASCAR races, a monster bridge and 4 a.m. casino gambling.

How Far: 102 miles, or two hours and 20 minutes from the District.

Release your inner Dale Earnhardt Jr. when NASCAR zooms into the Dover International Speedway twice a year. True, you can't slide behind the wheel yourself, but the roar of the engines whizzing down the straightaways and whipping around the turns will put your adrenalin in overdrive.

Wherever you sit at the speedway, you can add to the thunder by cheering on Ryan Newman, Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon or your favorite driver as you wait for the telltale wave of the checkered flag. But the coolest seats in the house are on top of the track: The glass-enclosed DuPont Monster Bridge is suspended 29 feet above the pavement. It's tricked out with 56 cushy seats, flat screen TVs, a bar and live audio access so you can listen as the drivers communicate with their crews. Built in 2004, the bridge is the only spot at the track where racecars zip beneath your feet.

Money won't land you a seat in this paned perch. Instead, fans win seats through online promotions (keep an eye out on http://www.doverspeedway.com/ , where you can also buy tickets for the outdoor seats).

Race-day action isn't just confined to the track, though. What goes on outside can be almost as much fun. Abandon yourself to a carnival-like atmosphere that includes tailgating, souvenir shopping and swapping, and 24/7 partying. Looking for more entertainment? No need to leave the property. The casino at Dover Downs boasts the largest number of slots (2,500) in Delaware. Five restaurants under one roof means you've got options: Splurge at upscale eatery Michele's or dine on a dime at the Winner's Circle buffet. And on the drive home, pretend there's a one in front of the 55 on your speedometer.

-- ANDREA POE