Road America: Our Nation’s National Park of Speed

Wisconsin’s Legacy at Full Throttle 

Get ready to rev up history! Opening in late 2027, the new Wisconsin History Center’s inaugural specialty exhibition will celebrate Wisconsin’s racing legacy. 

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Developed in partnership with Road America, Road America: America’s National Park of Speed will guide thousands of visitors through the lives of visionaries, innovators, racers and fans who built one of the world’s premier road courses. 

In the early 1950s sports car races were in the streets of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin and people dreamed of a permanent and professional track. Since 1955, Road America has been a place where legends are born. Now, years later, the legendary cars and drivers and stories of teams, companies and the community take the spotlight. Get ready to experience Wisconsin’s passion for speed, ingenuity and originality, a legacy that continues to inspire generations of fans and innovators. 

A black and white photo of a man waving a start flag to a car race. A banner above reads "Elkart Lake Road Races. Start and Finish Line. Be sure. With Pure.
Black and white Road America Logo

The Wisconsin Historical Society is proud to partner with Road America to collect, preserve and share the legacy of one of the world’s premier racing venues. See the ways we’re working together to give you a front seat to racing history!

Wisconsin History Center Exhibition

Opening in late 2027, the new Wisconsin History Center’s inaugural specialty exhibition will celebrate Wisconsin’s racing legacy with Road America: America’s National Park of Speed, developed in partnership with Road America.

Publications

Road America: America’s National Park of Speed by Bill Povletich is scheduled to be published by the Wisconsin Historical Society Press in 2027—featuring exclusive interviews, stories and behind-the-scenes insights from legendary drivers, track employees and devoted fans. Mr. Povletich’s Road America for Kids book will also be published in 2028.

Read an article by the author.

Online Exhibit

Our digital exhibition, created in partnership with Road America, brings America’s “National Park of Speed” to life through photographs and firsthand stories.

Explore the exhibit.

Road America Insider Circle

Sign up to receive exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes stories and updates on the Road America exhibition and experience. Communications come quarterly—or sooner when big news hits—so you’ll always be among the first to know.

Sign up for the Road America Insider Circle.


Accelerate the Vision

Become an Exhibition Partner!

When the Wisconsin History Center opens, its inaugural exhibition in the 7,500 square-foot Changing Gallery will celebrate 70 years of Road America. More than a showcase of speed, it honors heritage, innovation and the communities behind Wisconsin’s legacy. 

As we bring racers, cars and unforgettable fan moments to life, we’re seeking partners to help shape this landmark exhibition.

Contact us to explore how your support can drive this vision forward!

Kristin Wensing
Sponsorship & Corporate Giving Officer
608-263-3511 or [email protected]

Black and white photo of numerous men looking at a racing car

Support the Wisconsin History Center and help bring the Road America: America’s National Park of Speed exhibition to life. Your gift will create access to the stories, innovations and unforgettable moments that make Wisconsin a hub of racing, ingenuity and community. Every contribution powers world-class exhibitions, educational programs and immersive experiences—putting history in motion for generations to come. 

Partners

Black and white logo for Road America