Under construction for nearly 3 years, dedication ceremonies finally brought the Tampa Auto-Drome to life on June 4, 1937. Located near Bayshore Blvd on what is now Davis Island, it was at its time the largest permanent auto racing facility in the nation.
Hosting the annual Plant Charity Cup Race, "The Drome" attracted many famous race cars. No car however was as well turned out at the local 24-cyclinder behemoth known as the Roscrans Batmobile.

- Crash at "Hotel Doubletree" turn -

The last race on this track was on August 19, 1958. An accident at the "Hotel Doubletree" turn launched Sam Crandell's car #28 over the guardrail, just missing the heads of the ambassador's envoy from Pakistan. Although no injuries were reported, the ambassador, J. F. Mamjjasond insisted the track be demolished "For the safety of all man-kind."

Months later, the final engine roar in The Drome was that from a D-9 Cat. bulldozer. Some of the wooden timbers were salvaged and were used in a 1959 addition to the Giant Dipper roller coaster in Busch Gardens.