The Miata Owner’s Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Experiences

If you’ve ever taken a Miata for a spin, whether you call it an MX-5, a Roadster, or refer to it by its generation (NA, NB, NC, ND) you already know there’s something special about these little cars. They’re playful, lightweight, and just plain fun to drive. The folks who love them tend to crave winding roads, clever modifications, and that open-air feeling. If this sounds like your perfect day out, then buckle up! Here are ten experiences every Miata enthusiast needs to add to their bucket list. From the legendary Miatas at MRLS in California to epic road trips and restoration projects, we’ve got you covered.

Hit Up Miatas at MRLS (Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca)

Miatas at MRLS is like the ultimate Miata meet-up, held at the world-famous Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. Owners from all over the globe gather for a weekend of track action, a massive car show, and a nonstop celebration of everything Miata. The fun usually kicks off at the host hotel, where you’ll find a huge show-and-shine featuring everything from stock first-gens to bonkers engine-swapped beasts. You might even spot a whole caravan that drove down from Portland, one with an Exocet wearing a “helmet” for the entire trip!

One of the best parts is meeting people you’ve only known online, those folks in your Miata forum or Facebook group become real-life friends in an instant. You’ll see celebrity cars like “Casper,” famous for its unique headlights and bonded hardtop, or the pristine “Ginya” that’s racked up show trophies. Of course, the track itself is the big draw for many. Whether you participate in a mellow parade lap or suit up for a high-speed session, you’ll get to experience the legendary Corkscrew and its dramatic downhill twists. If you’re really lucky, you might run into Tom Matano, one of the Miata’s original designers, and maybe even snag an autograph. That sun visor of yours just turned into a piece of automotive history!

Cruise the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

Once you’re in Monterey for MRLS, you can’t skip the chance to drive the iconic Highway 1 (or PCH) along California’s rugged coastline. In a Miata with the top down, it’s basically a postcard come to life: dramatic cliffs on one side, mountains on the other, and the Pacific Ocean glittering in the distance. The smell of the salt air, the breeze in your hair, and the sight of waves crashing against the shore all combine into pure driving bliss.

Make time for stops at postcard-worthy spots like Bixby Creek Bridge or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and don’t forget Monterey Bay itself. This route is begging for group photos, imagine a line of Miatas pulling into a scenic overlook, each one more photogenic than the last. For a bit of extra magic, go at sunrise or near sunset. The light hits the ocean just right, and the cooler temperature makes it even sweeter to have the top down.

Take an Epic Road Trip

Miatas shine on twisty roads, so if cross-country adventure is your thing, the Pan-American Highway (which stretches from Alaska all the way down to Argentina) is the ultimate dream route. You’ll sample glaciers, deserts, and jungles, all while bonded to your nimble little roadster. Few of us get to tackle the entire thing, but even shorter sections, like cruising from the southwestern U.S. into Central America, create stories you’ll never forget.

If that’s too huge a commitment, there are plenty of stateside gems. The Tail of the Dragon at the Tennessee–North Carolina border packs 318 curves into just 11 miles, making it a rite of passage for many Miata fans. Colorado’s alpine roads also deliver mountain views that feel almost otherworldly. Whichever path you choose, load up on snacks, bring good company, and document every moment. You’ll end up with a photo and video diary of truly epic Miata memories.

Join a Local Miata Meet or Regional Gathering

Not everyone can swing travel to big events, but don’t underestimate the power of local Miata meets. These smaller get-togethers often have a more relaxed vibe and still provide plenty of opportunity to geek out over shared interests. Think casual park meet-ups, weekend coffee runs along scenic backroads, or potluck BBQs in someone’s driveway. It’s a chill way to bond with fellow owners and exchange all kinds of knowledge about maintenance, parts, and the best local roads.

You’ll find people who can direct you to trustworthy mechanics, help you troubleshoot weird rattles, or debate the merits of different wheel and tire setups. If you feel extra motivated, volunteer to organize a drive or a “tech day,” where everyone helps each other install or fix parts. It’s a great way to sharpen your own skills and become an invaluable member of your local Miata community.

Try a Track Day or Autocross

Driving a “slow car fast” is basically what the Miata is all about. Its balanced chassis and modest power mean you can really learn performance driving without immediately overwhelming yourself. Autocross events are a great entry point. They’re often set up in large parking lots, where you’ll weave through cones at speeds rarely above highway limits. It might sound tame, but nailing a perfect slalom is surprisingly thrilling.

For a higher-speed experience, sign up for a High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) at a local track. All you need is a helmet, a well-maintained Miata, and a willingness to push your limits. Many HPDEs offer instruction, so you can learn proper braking, racing lines, and corner techniques from experienced drivers. Even a single day of coaching can radically improve your driving and deepen your appreciation for how perfectly tuned a Miata’s handling can be.

Check Out Legendary Automotive Museums

Sometimes you need a day off from the driver’s seat to simply revel in car culture. Automotive museums are fantastic sources of inspiration, showing you the history and evolution of the vehicles we love. In Europe, the Cité de l’Automobile in Mulhouse, France, is renowned for housing the world’s biggest Bugatti collection. It’s a journey through time, from the earliest motorized carriages to modern supercars.

If you’re ever in Japan, the Mazda Museum in Hiroshima is a true pilgrimage site. You’ll get an up-close look at the roots of the MX-5 and see classic rotary engines alongside futuristic concepts. If the museum you visit offers a factory tour, jump on it. There’s nothing like watching a car roll down the assembly line, fresh and ready for the road.

Immerse Yourself in a Major Motorsport Event

You don’t need to be the one behind the wheel to catch the adrenaline rush of racing. Big events have an electric atmosphere, whether you’re in the stands, browsing the paddock, or camping out with fellow fans. The 24 Hours of Le Mans in France is legendary for its endurance format and night-time engine symphony. Hardcore fans camp trackside, grilling, cheering, and occasionally guessing which car just roared past by the sound of its engine.

If you crave something more showy, the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England is part car show, part race, and part garden party, featuring classic and modern race cars zipping up the famous hill climb. For wilder custom builds and drift demos, the Essen Motor Show in Germany cranks everything up to eleven. Wherever you go, keep your camera or phone handy. Racing legends, exotic prototypes, and memorable car-culture moments pop up everywhere.

Conquer a Mountain Pass at Dawn

Mountain passes push your driving skills and offer jaw-dropping scenery as your reward. In a convertible, you’ll also savor the brisk morning air and the scent of pine or alpine wildflowers. The famous Stelvio Pass in Italy, known for its 48 tight switchbacks, is best tackled at sunrise to avoid heavy traffic (and an army of cyclists). As the sun touches the peaks, you’ll feel like you’re in a dream sequence.

In the U.S., Pikes Peak in Colorado is equally legendary, climbing to a summit of 14,115 feet. Altitude can strain both you and your engine, so make sure your cooling system is ready. There’s nothing like reaching the top, snapping a pic of your Miata with the mountains sprawled out behind you, and breathing that thin, crisp air.

Restore or Modify Your Miata

One of the most rewarding things about owning a Miata is how tinker-friendly it is. Even minor mods, like changing out the shift knob, adding a roll bar, or going for a lightweight flywheel, can hugely impact how the car feels. Dive deeper into projects like refreshing the paint, installing coilovers, or upgrading the interior, and you’ll end up with a ride that’s personally tailored to your tastes.

Some enthusiasts go for a vintage JDM aesthetic, hunting down classic M2 bumpers and period-correct wheels, while others chase modern performance with turbos or V8 swaps. The possibilities are endless, and every project builds a closer connection between you and your Miata. For the bravest (or most dedicated) souls, a full rebuild is the ultimate challenge. Hearing the engine fire up for the first time after you’ve done all the wrenching yourself is an unforgettable thrill.

Meet Miata Legends in Person

Miatas didn’t just magically appear; they were created by passionate designers and engineers. Meeting these “Miata legends” is like shaking hands with the roots of your favorite superhero story. Tom Matano is often seen as the Miata community’s patron saint. If you spot him at an event, a simple greeting and an autograph (maybe on your visor or dash) can turn your car into a piece of living history.

You might also run into famous tuners, engine swap experts, or grassroots racers who’ve tested the Miata’s potential on every type of track. If you see these icons at a banquet or vendor booth, be cool, say hello, snap a quick photo if you can, and share your appreciation. They’re part of the reason the Miata has such a vibrant and supportive community.

Every one of these experiences will deepen your love for the Miata. Small though it may be, this little roadster has a knack for creating big memories, forging lifelong friendships, and inspiring countless adventures. Whether you’ve just snagged your first NA or you’re on your fourth ND, there’s always something new and exciting to explore, and a group of fellow Miata fans eager to join the ride.

So start planning. Reserve your spot at Miatas at MRLS, gather your buddies for a local meet, or carve out a weekend to cruise a gorgeous coastline. If you find yourself grinning like a fool during a parade lap or tearing up because you finally dove through the Corkscrew, don’t say we didn’t warn you. This is the magic of the Miata life.

Safe travels, happy wrenching, and may you check every item off this bucket list!