Spectator Sports in Richmond

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.