TRAVELING BY MASS TRANSPORT

If you're looking to travel to the Enjoy Illinois 300 using mass transportation (rather than driving or flying), there are a few options to consider. While Daytona Beach is a popular destination, it can be a bit tricky to rely solely on public transportation, especially for such a large event. However, there are still ways to get there without driving. Here's an overview of your options:

MetroLink

The easiest and most reliable way to reach the raceway without driving is via MetroLink (single ride pass costs $5.00), St. Louis’s light rail system. The closest station to the track is Emerson Park Station, located in East St. Louis.

During major race weekends – including the NASCAR Cup Series Enjoy Illinois 300 – free shuttle buses run between Emerson Park and the raceway (both on Saturday and Sunday). On Sunday, there also operates.   

Shuttles typically begin service in the morning and run throughout the day, making this the top option for fans staying downtown or arriving via air.

Race-Day shuttle services (Madison County Transit)

In addition to MetroLink connections, Madison County Transit (MCT) operates special event-day shuttles from park-and-ride lots across the area. Common departure points include:

• Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville

These shuttles are designed to serve race fans (mostly on Sunday only) and typically run on a loop between parking areas and the racetrack entrance. They're either free or available for a small fee.

Amtrak (Train travel from other cities)

If you're traveling from outside the immediate St. Louis area, Amtrak can be a convenient and comfortable alternative to flying or driving, especially for fans coming from cities like Chicago, Kansas City, or Dallas.

The main arrival point is St. Louis Gateway Station (Union Station), located in the heart of downtown. It’s served by several Amtrak routes:

• Lincoln Service – multiple daily trains between Chicago and St. Louis, stopping in cities like Springfield, Bloomington, and Joliet. This is one of the most frequent and reliable options for Midwest travelers.
• Missouri River Runner – connects Kansas City to St. Louis, with stops in Jefferson City, Columbia, and other towns across central Missouri.
• Texas Eagle – a long-distance route running between Chicago and San Antonio, with stops in St. Louis, Little Rock, Dallas, and Austin. It’s ideal for fans coming from Texas or the southern U.S.

Once you arrive at Gateway Station, reaching the raceway is easy. The Civic Center MetroLink station is located right outside the Amtrak terminal. From there, hop on the Red Line toward Shiloh-Scott and ride for about 20 minutes to Emerson Park Station. On major race weekends, free shuttle buses operate from Emerson Park to the raceway gates.

This Amtrak + MetroLink + shuttle combo offers a low-stress, car-free way to attend the race. You won’t have to worry about traffic, parking, or navigating unfamiliar roads. Plus, the trains are comfortable, and many offer free Wi-Fi, onboard food, and spacious seating.

For race fans planning ahead, Amtrak tickets can be booked online or via the Amtrak app. If you're coming from Chicago or Kansas City, it's often cheaper than flying – and more scenic too.

Ridesharing (Uber and Lyft)

Ridesharing services like Uber operate in the Technology Raceway area. These app-based services offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, especially for groups or those seeking a more personalized travel experience.