There are some big name, nice hotels on I-459 at the exits south of I-20 that are probably less than a half hours drive from track. Never stayed at them but I woudn't hesitate to try. There is a hotel or two on the I-20 track exit. Doubt I'll ever stay there. There is a Best Western and Comfort Inn a few miles east on I-20 that are good. With a Cracker Barrel adjacent what more can you ask for? As long as there isn't a bus load of teenagers with no parents, they are a nice place to stay.
I usually stay in the Hampton Inn or Hilton on Hwy 280 where it crosses 459 near the Summit, good food near there. If it's booked up I go to the Hamton Inn in Pell City off of I20, about 15 minutes from the Barber exit in Leeds.
Stay far far away from the "America's Best Value Inn" at the Barber exit unless you are in desperate need of a place to stay. As someone else said, an exit or two east on I20 will give you better options for lodging.
Coming to Barber for the 2nd time in March & then May-Oct. (hooked). Stayed @ the Best Western in Leeds last time & have reservations for March & May. New hotel..Cracker Barrel next door, what else could you need!?!
The closest place to stay is in Trussville...off of 459. Plenty of Hotels, resturants, shopping...ect It is so much better than staying in Leeds, or Pell City. Its also 8 minutes from the track. 280 would be my second choice only because its a little farther and TONS more traffic! However, 280 also has some very nice hotels and $$$$resturants if thats your thing...