Exploring Hazel Park Raceway Before Its 2018 Demolition

The once-popular Hazel Park Raceway was demolished in 2018, but its memory lives on through photos that we acquired from Detroit Unseen.

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The Hazel Park Raceway was originally supposed to be an auto racing track. However, not long after construction began on the 5/8-mile track, it was halted because of financial troubles with the project.

After a well-known (and successful) businessman purchased the property, it was converted into a horse racing venue.

When Did Hazel Park Raceway Officially Open?

Hazel Park Raceway opened its doors on August 17, 1949, with its first thoroughbred meet. The 5/8-mile track was the first in the nation of this length.

For many years, the raceway was a hot spot for horse racing.

Deadly Fire at Hazel Park Raceway

In June 1987, a fire erupted at Hazel Park Harness Raceway, resulting in the tragic loss of 15 out of the 26 horses housed in the stable.

According to Wikipedia, in 2004, Hazel Park Raceway upgraded its old grandstands with a new, state-of-the-art structure spanning 40,000 square feet. This multi-million-dollar facility incorporated modern grandstands, a press box, and a gaming facility.

Hazel Park Raceway Demolished

After years of profitable operations, the track was sold in 2018, and racing at Hazel Park Raceway came to an end. Later that year, the track was demolished.

The site is now an Amazon distribution center.

Urban exploring can be dangerous and in some cases, it's illegal. Urban exploring should only be done with the permission of the owner.