The Mint 400 returns next week, breathing temporary life into the dusty lungs of Primm, a place valued more for gas stations and restrooms than casinos these days. So get ready to take a short road trip to the state line. The race is a unique piece of Vegas lore that dates back decades.
🏜️ What is the Mint 400?
The Mint 400 is one of the most prestigious and legendary off-road races in the world. Competitors hit a 100-mile dirt track in the desert for a total of four laps, adding up to 400 miles total — hence the name. There are different races in various vehicles and skill levels on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7.
🎰 How Did it Start?
The race began in 1968, taking place in the desert outside Downtown. Sponsored by The Mint hotel and casino on Fremont Street, the event was originally an idea to promote the resort’s annual deer hunt, but developed into the largest off-road race in the world.
🎞️ Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
The race attracted the best in the sport, including Indianapolis 500 winners, but also celebrity entrants like actors Steve McQueen and James Garner. Festivities connected to the race were hosted by the “Girls of the Mint 400,” selected from hundreds of entries each year. Lynda Carter and Vanna White were among the finalists early in their careers. The race was a focal point of Hunter S. Thompson’s “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” which elevated its status as an iconic event.
The Mint shines bright in a different era for Fremont Street. (Todd Gipstein/Getty)
😕 Bumps in the Road
The Mint was sold in 1988 and became part of the property now known as Binions, putting an end to the race. In 2008, new owners revived the Mint 400, which is now marketed more directly to racing enthusiasts.
👀 Watching the Mint 400
Spectators can catch the action at the start/finish line in Primm outside Buffalo Bill’s. Four additional spectator areas run along the track in Jean. Tickets begin at $37.36. Then again, you can always stream the event online.
🎉 More Than a Race
The Mint 400 has a festival atmosphere with food trucks, bars, exhibitors, entertainment, and a series of affiliated events, including a vehicle parade down the Strip Wednesday, March 4 at 3 p.m. and a free festival in the Fremont East district Thursday, March 5, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s hosts post-race celebrations, featuring ‘90s and beyond cover band Your Mom at Tree Bar and DJ Dangerous D at the Saloon.
