New Hampshire Motor Speedway, located in Loudon, NH, is a mainstay for motorsports fans in New England. Known locally as "The Magic Mile," this 1.058-mile oval presents a unique challenge to drivers. Its relatively flat surface puts a premium on smooth, consistent driving and managing tire wear, making for some exciting finishes as cars battle for grip late in races. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere and a good mix of seasoned race fans and those new to the sport, drawn by the excitement of NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series events, the track's biggest draws. Beyond the major NASCAR weekends, NHMS offers a variety of events throughout the year. You might find NHRA drag racing, spectator events tailored to specific car clubs, or even corporate events taking advantage of the facility's space and resources. If you're looking to get behind the wheel yourself, they often host driving experience programs, offering a chance to tackle the oval with instruction. Located centrally in New Hampshire, it's relatively easy to access from most of the state and surrounding regions, making it a convenient destination for a weekend of racing action. Check their website, nhms.com, for a detailed event schedule and specific program offerings.
Watch: New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Know Before You Go
- Race nights
- Most short tracks run Friday or Saturday night events from April through October. Always check the season calendar — many venues take rain dates or holiday breaks.
- Ticket pricing
- General admission is typically $15-40 for adults, pit passes $50-100. Children are often free or half-price. Bigger sanctioned events (touring series) cost more.
- What's racing
- Local oval classes commonly include late models, modifieds, sprint cars, hobby stock, and street stock. Bigger ovals also host NASCAR Weekly Series feature races.
- Bring earplugs
- Open-exhaust race cars push 130-145 dB at the fence — well above the threshold for hearing damage. Bring foam plugs or over-ear protection for kids.
- Schedule rhythm
- Race nights follow a consistent flow: hot laps and qualifying, heat races, then feature events. Plan for a 4-5 hour evening from gates open to checkered flag.