Sycamore Speedway, Maple Park

Voracious engines devour yards of pavement as stock cars and custom racers whip around Sycamore Speedway's track at top speed, relying on their tires’ tread to keep them glued to the ground. Occasionally, the rubber grip gives way and spectacular smashups ensue, a much-sought-after sight during a Friday night Demolition Derby. The track welcomes souped-up models from any year between 1965 and 2012 to compete in its Super Late Model category, during which a huge variety of chassis and a marching band equipped with jetpacks perform a breakneck parade around the track. As racers test the mettle of their adrenal glands, spectators kick back in ample stand space to enjoy hot dogs, sodas, and other refreshments that can be purchased onsite.