While many people associate New York with the fast pace of New York City, the state offers much more, especially for motorsport fans. Located in the scenic upstate region, Watkins Glen is a small village in New York State, far from the skyscrapers and traffic of the city. Instead, it’s surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, lakes, and one of the most beautiful landscapes in the northeastern U.S.
New York State is known for its diversity – from the Great Lakes in the west to the Atlantic coastline in the east, and from the Adirondack Mountains to the quiet charm of the Finger Lakes, where Watkins Glen is located. This region is a popular summer destination, known for its natural beauty, wineries, and relaxed pace of life.
For NASCAR fans, Watkins Glen International is a true highlight of the state’s sports calendar. It’s one of the few road courses in NASCAR’s Cup Series and delivers a unique challenge for drivers and teams. The event draws fans from across the country who come not only for the racing, but also to enjoy everything the region has to offer – from camping and tailgating to exploring local trails, lakes, and small towns.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from across the country, attending a race at The Glen is a great way to experience a different side of New York – one that’s rich in history, hospitality, and high-speed action.
As a U.S. state, New York follows the country’s entry requirements, which depend on citizenship and the purpose of travel. Below are general guidelines:
The official currency of New York, like all other U.S. states, is the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbolized by "$" and divided into 100 cents. It is issued by the Federal Reserve and is one of the most widely used currencies in global trade and finance. While exchange rates can vary, they generally include:
New York follows U.S. electrical standards, using NEMA 5-15 outlets (two vertical slots and a ground pin). The standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz.
Major mobile carriers in the U.S. offer extensive coverage across the country, including New York, making it easy to stay connected whether you're visiting the beaches, exploring theme parks, or attending a NASCAR race. The top mobile providers in New York are:
AT&T
Known for its nationwide coverage, AT&T offers both prepaid and postpaid plans with excellent service across New York, including urban areas like Watkins Glen, as well as more remote locations. Its 5G network is expanding rapidly, providing fast speeds in many regions of the state.
Verizon Wireless
Verizon is famous for its reliable network, making it a popular choice for travelers and locals in New York. Known for its wide coverage, it is especially strong in both urban and rural areas across the state. Verizon also offers flexible plans, including unlimited data options, and its 5G Ultra Wideband coverage is growing, providing high-speed service in major New York cities like Watkins Glen.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is gaining ground with competitive pricing and excellent international roaming options, which is great for tourists visiting New York from abroad. Known for its affordable plans and unlimited data options, T-Mobile also provides strong coverage across much of New York, especially in areas like Watkins Glen. T-Mobile has been expanding its 5G network, offering high-speed internet in many parts of the state.
For visitors, eSIM apps like Airalo can be an efficient way to access mobile data.
If you're calling from outside the United States, don’t forget to dial +1 before the number. Below are key phone numbers you might need during race weekend at Watkins Glen International, along with local emergency contacts in the Watkins Glen, New York area:
There’s a lot more to New York than just skyscrapers and city lights. While New York City gets most of the attention, the rest of the state is full of scenic landscapes, rich history, and unique experiences, especially for race fans visiting Watkins Glen. From motorsport milestones to natural wonders, here are some fun and surprising facts about the Empire State that you might not know.
It’s more than just New York City.
While NYC is world-famous, over 60% of New York State is covered in forest and home to small towns, farmland, lakes, and mountains. Watkins Glen is part of this quieter, scenic side of the state, in the heart of the Finger Lakes region.
The Finger Lakes are glacier-made
The eleven long, narrow lakes (including Seneca Lake near Watkins Glen) were carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. The area is now one of the top wine-producing regions in the U.S.
Watkins Glen hosted F1 before NASCAR.
Watkins Glen International was once home to the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix from 1961 to 1980. That makes it one of the few NASCAR tracks with a deep international racing history.
It’s the birthplace of American winemaking.
The Finger Lakes region is known as the birthplace of the U.S. wine industry. New York is now the third-largest wine-producing state, behind California and Washington.
It’s home to the oldest state park in the U.S.
Niagara Falls State Park, established in 1885, is the oldest state park in the country – and yes, it’s still in New York State!
Mountains, beaches, and racetracks
New York has a little bit of everything – the Adirondacks for hiking, the Atlantic Ocean coastline for beaches, and legendary tracks like Watkins Glen International for racing fans.
A motorsport legacy
Besides NASCAR, New York has hosted IMSA, IndyCar, and vintage racing. Watkins Glen International is one of the most historic circuits in North America.
Upstate means up north, not elevation
When New Yorkers say “Upstate,” they don’t mean it’s higher in altitude. It just refers to everything north of New York City, including the peaceful and rural areas like Watkins Glen.
HISTORY OF THE WATKINS GLEN INTERNATIONAL
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