As we celebrate National Sports Day 2025, few places embody the spirit of New England sports like New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS). Known as “The Magic Mile,” this Loudon landmark is New England’s largest sports and entertainment facility, drawing race fans, athletes and families from across the Northeast and beyond each season.
The Beginning of “The Magic Mile”
The NHMS story began in 1990 when the facility was built on the site of the former Bryar Motorsports Park and opened as New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS). The vision was bold: to create a world-class motorsports complex that could host NASCAR’s biggest events while offering versatility for other types of racing.
At its core lies the iconic 1.058-mile oval track, purpose-built for high-speed NASCAR action, but intertwined with the oval and extending beyond its backstretch is another gem – a 1.6-mile multi-configuration road course. The design allows for multiple configurations ranging from 0.95 to 1.6 miles, creating a dynamic environment for sports cars, motorcycles, driving schools and club racing. With tight turns and elevation changes, the road course delivers one of the most technically challenging driving experiences in New England.
Growth and the Speedway Motorsports Era
Over the years, NHIS expanded into a 1,200-acre sports and entertainment complex featuring grandstands, spacious garages and a variety of fan amenities. In 2008, it became part of the Speedway Motorsports family, ushering in a new era of investment, innovation and community connection and was renamed New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Under Speedway Motorsports’ stewardship, NHMS has continued to evolve – enhancing safety features, introducing digital fan engagement tools and improving track infrastructure to meet the standards of both professional and amateur racing alike.
A Seasonal Destination for Sports and Community
While NHMS closes during the harsh New England winters, it’s spring-through-fall schedule is packed with action. From NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) weekends and motorcycle racing on the road course to charity rides, driving experiences and community fundraisers, the facility welcomes more than 150,000 visitors each season.
The road course in particular remains a favorite among regional and national clubs, hosting Sports Car Club of America and Northeast Motorcycle Road Racing events that showcase skill, precision and passion.
The Legacy of New England’s Largest Sports and Entertainment Facility
More than three decades since its opening, NHMS continues to unite generations of fans under one banner – the love of speed, sportsmanship and community. This National Sports Day, NHMS stands as proof that the greatest sports venues aren’t just built with concrete and steel – they’re built with heart, heritage and the thrill of competition.
