Auto Racing -- See NASCAR racing at Richmond International Raceway, between Laburnum Avenue and the Henrico Turnpike/Meadowbridge Road (tel. 804/329-6796; www.rir.com). The raceway is Virginia's largest sports facility, attracting crowds of 70,000 or more. Unless you're a NASCAR fan, check the website and avoid being in Richmond on race weekends, when accommodations are scarce.

College Sports -- The University of Richmond's Spiders play football and basketball in the Colonial Athletic Association (tel. 804/289-8388; www.richmondspiders.com). Virginia Commonwealth University's Rams play basketball at the Coliseum (tel. 804/282-7267; www.vcuathletics.com).

Horse Racing -- Virginia's only parimutuel racetrack, Colonial Downs, is on Va. 155, between I-64 (Exit 205) and U.S. 60 in New Kent County, 25 miles east of Richmond (tel. 888/482-8722 or 804/966-7223; www.colonialdowns.com). Call or check the website for schedules and ticket prices.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.