In the lead-up to the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Playoffs race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) on September 21, Christopher Bell, the two-time defending winner at NHMS and driver of the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, spent Wednesday touring Boston, Massachusetts. This visit gave Bell a chance to experience the city’s rich culture and historic sites before preparing for the critical playoff event.
Iconic Boston Landmarks on a Unique Duck Boat Tour
Bell’s day began with a ride on an iconic Boston Duck Boat named Symphony Hal, dedicated to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Accompanied by NHMS Executive Vice President David McGrath and local media, Bell enjoyed a spirited tour led by driver Tony and narrator The Great Garabaldi. The narration featured lively NASCAR-themed humor, playful references to McGrath, and highlights of Bell’s racing career. The boat tour covered famous Boston landmarks, including the Omni Parker House, birthplace of Boston Crème Pie, the historic Freedom Trail, Massachusetts State House, Boston Common, Public Garden featuring the Make Way for Ducklings statues, and Faneuil Hall. The tour concluded with the Duck Boat entering the Charles River, where Bell took the helm and performed his first-ever water donuts.
Tasting the Flavors of Boston’s North End
After returning on land, Bell visited Boston’s North End, known for its Italian heritage and authentic cuisine. At Umbria, Bell joined Head Chef Felipe Gustavo Pereira Santos and Chef de Cuisine Alonso Cedillas to learn how to prepare their Short Rib Caramelle Pasta. The chefs then guided him through a variety of appetizers, showcasing dishes like Potato Croquets, Cacio E Pepe Arancini, Antipasto Skewers, Chicken Parmesan Skewers, Caprese Skewers, Smoked Salmon Crostini, Sausage and Pepper Spiedini, Tomato, Basil and Garlic Bruschetta, and Prosciutto and Melon. Bell also explored the dessert selection, which included cupcakes, cannoli, tiramisu, and beignets.
Engaging with Young Fans at Boston Children’s Hospital
Bell ended his Boston visit with a special stop at Seacrest Studios inside Boston Children’s Hospital. There, he spent time with young patients playing the game Arty Party, where they designed race cars, racetracks, and even new firesuits for the 12-time NCS winner. The interactive broadcast reached more than 470 hospital rooms, allowing patients to participate remotely. Bell gifted his studio guests signed hero cards, plush moose or lobsters from NHMS, and took photos to commemorate the moment.
Christopher Bell Reflects on His Boston Experience
Before departing from Boston Logan International Airport, Bell shared his thoughts on the day:
“It was an amazing day to get just the history of this place,”
said Bell.
“Overall a really, really fun day, and I can’t wait to see everybody at New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the Round of 12 opener. It’s going to be a really important race, and a lot more serious when we come back to New England.”
— Christopher Bell, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Looking Ahead to the New Hampshire Playoffs
Bell’s visit to Boston combined a deep appreciation for the city’s heritage with meaningful interactions that energized him ahead of the pivotal NASCAR Cup Series Round of 12 race. Having won twice at NHMS, Bell enters the playoffs with optimism and focus, prepared to defend his title in a region steeped in history and enthusiasm for the sport. His engagement with local culture and fans underscores the connection between racing and the communities that support it, setting a hopeful tone for the upcoming competition.