John,
I know what you mean. For years I wanted to go to Talladega as it looked awesume on the TV. But when I actually went there last year, I was a little disappointed.
Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed the race and the place is huge, but its too big and loses atmosphere due to the sheer size. Also as the cars are at the other side of the track, you can't see whats going on as they are the size of ants. Good as they come past byou though.
However Bristol is the complete opposite and is better being there than it is live on TV. The track is 1/2 mile so you see everything, and the noise and atmosphere is electric. But I guess this is why there are over 180,000 on a waiting list for tickets for a 160,000 seat stadium.