Yes, downtown WG tends to be quiet at night, but Ithaca has some night life and is a short drive away. 

Corning is nice and quaint. The museum is very cool. I really don't think you'll be missing much as far as night life goes in Watkins Glen. Although I'm done driving after the re-enactment, I understand that it's pretty dead "downtown" at night.

Now, that being said, this event seems to REALLY be growing these last few years..

Thx for the insight Cranium.

I ended up getting a hotel in Corning as there seems to be quite a bit to do there at night, not far from WG and the only reasonable dog friendly place...

All the applicable car shows are sold out which would get you a spot on Main Street it seems and laps around the old course so I'll just be parking on a side street I guess. It's a bit odd how they do their shows and registration, but guess space is limited and keeps the event unique...

Looking forward to the trip. I'll be driving my 76 mini from Pittsburgh.

Well, let me know. I'll supply the refreshments..

Wow, that is an old profile pict.. here are my 2 girls, and the new pup now...

Not sure, l have a packed September with car shows especially Big Bronte on the 16th and maybe the Moke run in Georgia later

Big AL

I will be there, as I have been going EVERY year since 1993 or so. This is a boyz weekend for me, so my dad and the guys go. It's full of Vodka, cigars, gluttony, and vintage race cars. I camp at the state park, and show up around 2 on Friday afternoon. As I have never had a car to put on Main St., I'm unsure as to how to register. I'm not sure if it's racing or qualifying at the track on Saturday; Either way, it's a blast.

Big Al, are you going this year? Would love to have an adult beverage (or 4) and catch up! Anyone else going?

Thanks Big AL !

S***e, computer. Just ate my lengthy thread reply-

Yes,do the Friday concourse downtown for sure, get there by 11:00 AM to see all the cars

No main street parking but lots of off street available No motels vacant in WG,

You can stay in Horsehead NY (south) or Bath NY (west), Super 8 in Bath is O K

You will see enough racing on Saturday, go home Sunday

Not sure about cross country drive from PBurgh

I will NOT be entered in the concourse this year,just don't have a mini worthy

Big AL

Hello all,

Considering heading to the glen this upcoming September for the Festival on Friday and races over the weekend.

I've been to the finger lakes area a few times and thru Watkins glen so know the area but my question is what to expect/ plan for, morso for the Festival?

Based on the Watkins glen festival site it seems like in order to park your car on Main Street and drive the old track you have to sign up for one of the 8 or 9 event activities. Any suggestions? Worth doing these or just driving up and hanging out? Can you even park your car on the Main Street if not registered for these few events? They seem to be booking fast...

Does anything go on Saturday night in the town following the races at the track? Is it races on Saturday or just practice? Unfortunately we will need to return home Sunday morning so will miss the action on Sunday.

Hotels seem booked up in the area, any suggestions where else to look in the surrounding areas? I'm checking vrbo now as well. Camping is out as my wife will be coming and our dog most likely.

Lastly, will be leaving from Pittsburgh, Pa area. Will be driving the mini. Initial plan is to drive back roads, predominantly PA 66 which cuts thru Allegheny National Forest. Curious if anyone in the area has driven the road and thoughts? Or suggestions on other fun routes.

Thanks, Seth