Rusty Wallace Inc. Racing in Mooresville, North Carolina

Rusty Wallace Inc. is home to the Nationwide Series teams owned by former NASCAR driver Rusty Wallace. His son Stephen Wallace is the premier driver, while Brendan Gaughn now races for them. In the 2008 season Gaughn's seat was held by NASCAR driver David Stremme who now drives in the Cup Series for Penske Racing. Our recent trip to the Concord, North Carolina area included a stop by Rusty Wallace Inc. because my best friend is a big fan of the former driver.

Rusty Wallace Inc. is open to the public, though most fans who take the trip out there will probably end up feeling disappointed. The reason for the disappointment is because much of the shop is closed to the public. They don't allow fans access to the floor, nor do they have a fan walk where fans have the option of seeing them work on the cars. It's basically a very pared down museum highlighting the big moments in Wallace's career.

When you first walk into the shop you'll see a car of Rusty's out on display. In 2008 they had his Last Call car sitting out, which was used to promote his retirement tour. This year they had Midnight sitting out on display. This car was first used in 1992 and remains one of the more popular cars from his career.

To the left is a small display of Rusty Wallace memorabilia, including pictures of him with other drivers. At the back of the building is yet another display and this one is much more impressive. They have numerous trophies out, helmets worn by the former racer, diecast cars and the trophy he received after winning the Winston Cup. They also offered free hero cards, though they had only one left when we were there and didn't place anymore back out.

Basically Rusty Wallace Inc. is good for those who followed the racer, but not necessarily modern day fans of the sport. On the way out we ran into a group of fans who had just left and overheard them asking if there was anything else. Sadly, that's all there is with this race shop. It's a place that we visit because of my friend, but not a place I would seek out on my own. Given the small amount of things on display, it's hard to believe anyone would be that impressed.

On the plus side, Rusty Wallace Inc. is conveniently located near several other race shops including Red Bull Racing. It you're in the area checking out the other spots and you're a fan of Rusty Wallace, you might want to stop by for a few minutes.