Daytona attendee veterans

[TommyGunn]

I have a question(3) for all the vets(for Daytona 500 not military vets) of attending the 500. We are in a lull at work and I have the opportunity to take some unexpected time off. Flights are pretty cheap right now and I can fly to Orlando or Key West for under $400 from Portland, OR.(might have something to do with all the planes falling out of the air recently who knows?). I can get a two day grandstand pass for just under $300. Hotels are off the hook in Daytona but reasonable in Jacksonville. Rental cars are dirt cheap. Trying to decide if I want to get warm and kick back for 4 days in key west or brave the madness that is attending a Daytona 500. Have always wanted to attend a 500. Haven't been to either. Is the madness worth seeing a 500 live?
( pic of my job site included so you see what I want to leave for a few days LOL)

 

[sdj]

@TommyGunn , send the section of seats you are referring to. It makes a huge difference where you sit.

 

[DIDIT]

Are your plans such that you could attend the 500 on Monday if it rains? If so, I would probably choose the 500 over Key West. Only because I have been in Florida a long time and Key West has lost its laid back charm for me. But if you have never been down there it's still pretty cool to experience the different bars, sunsets, snorkeling, etc. And with Key West you don't have to worry about rain delays or dealing with driving close to 200 miles RT. On the other hand having been to many NASCAR races there is nothing quite like the excitement of the 500. Its just on a different level, especially IF the weather cooperates. If ma nature decides it should rain it can be a real PITA. I would try to find someplace to stay on the north side of Orlando.