AMA Motorcycle Days Mid-Ohio: Complete First-Timer Guide

If you’ve never been to AMA Motorcycle Days Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, helmet up—because this event is equal parts swap meet, race day, camping trip, and pure delightful chaos. And I mean that in the best possible way.

This isn’t just any motorcycle event. It’s a full-blown sensory overload of bikes, food, music, and mud (depending on the weather), and it’s an absolute must-do if you love two-wheeled adventures or just want to spend a weekend soaking up the culture. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days trip—from tickets and parking to the best food and where to stay if you’re not a “happy camper.”

Tickets: Buy in Advance and Save

Tickets run about $70 per person per day if you buy ahead of time. Procrastinate, and you’ll pay around $10 more at the gate. Just grab them online before you go so you can save money and guarantee your spot.

Parking and Getting Around

Parking is free, which is a nice bonus. If you don’t arrive early, you’ll likely end up in the far parking lot—and honestly, that’s my preferred spot because it’s easy to get in and out of. Just know it’s about a half-mile walk to the swap meet.

Walking is actually part of the fun because you can really take your time and look at everything, but you do need to be very aware of your surroundings. There are bikes everywhere and they’re constantly moving. The second year we went, we brought a small bike and rode it to the swap meet and it was much easier. If you have a mini bike or something similar, bring it. Just leave room in your truck because you will probably be tempted to buy a few more from the swap meet.

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The Swap Meet

The swap meet is enormous—think rows and rows of vendors selling bikes, parts, gear, and things you didn’t even know existed. Even if you’re not there to buy, it’s worth walking through just for the atmosphere. You’ll find an auction tent, a bike show, and vendors selling tools, T-shirts, and accessories.

Food and Drinks

Most of the food vendors serve typical fair food—fried everything, lemonade shake-ups, and so on—but if you walk toward the far parking lot, you’ll find a great BBQ stand and even boba tea. It feels unexpectedly trendy for a motorcycle event, but it hits the spot.

Racing and Events

There’s more to AMA Motorcycle Days than just shopping. You’ll find off-road racing near the front of the park, road track racing on the main course, and even an open hilly field just past the far parking lot where you can test out the limits of your new bike or the dirt bike you brought with you.

Camping at Mid-Ohio

There are multiple fields throughout the facility for both RV and tent camping, but they sell out fast, so grab your spot early if that’s your plan. As for me, I am not a happy camper, so I prefer to stay in a hotel. The closest towns are Mount Gilead and Mansfield, or you can stay in Columbus, which is my favorite because it gives me a chance to explore downtown after a day at the track. Another option is to stay in the Amish village about an hour away from the park, which is a peaceful contrast to all the motorcycle energy. If camping isn’t your thing, there are plenty of hotels near Mid-Ohio, and my guide breaks down the best options.

Final Thoughts on AMA Motorcycle Days Mid-Ohio

AMA Motorcycle Days Mid-Ohio is chaotic in the best possible way—a mix of adrenaline, exhaust fumes, and friendly bike enthusiasts all in one place. Whether you’re there to score a rare find, watch racing, or just wander the rows of bikes with a lemonade in hand, it’s a weekend that will leave you grinning and maybe a little sunburned. Plan ahead, bring good walking shoes or a bike, and make sure you have room in the truck for whatever treasures you pick up.

If you want something peaceful and scenic, consider an Amish Country getaway just an hour from the track.