Oldest Horse Race Tracks in America

8 Oldest Horse Race Tracks in America

The thrill of horse racing has captivated audiences in the United States for centuries. Several iconic tracks, from the Kentucky Derby to the Belmont Stakes, have become synonymous with this beloved sport. However, did you know that some of America’s oldest horse racing tracks have been around for over 150 years? These historic venues are a testament to the rich history of horse racing and a window into the past of American culture.

Each track has a unique story, from the rolling hills of Saratoga Springs to the bustling streets of New Orleans. In this article, we will take a closer look at America’s eight oldest horse racing tracks, exploring their fascinating histories and enduring legacies.

So, get ready to saddle up and embark on a journey through time as we explore the roots of horse racing in America.

8. Yonkers Raceway

Year Started: 1899
Location: New York City, New York
Course Type: Dirt
Owned By: YVici Properties

Yonkers Racewayphoto source: Untapped New York

Yonkers Raceway is a harness racing track in Yonkers, New York, part of the greater New York City metropolitan area. The track has operated since 1899, one of the oldest harness racing tracks in the United States. The racing surface is made of dirt and has a distance of one mile.

Yonkers Raceway is owned by Vici Properties, a real estate investment trust specializing in casino properties. The track is home to the annual Yonkers International Trot, a major event in the harness racing calendar.

Did You Know?

The track has also been used as a location for several television shows and movies, including “The Sopranos” and “Friends with Benefits.”


7. Aqueduct Racetrack

Year Started: 1894
Location: New York City, New York
Course Type: Flat/Thoroughbred
Owned By: New York Racing Association

Aqueduct Racetrackphoto source: Wikipedia

Aqueduct Racetrack is a Thoroughbred horse racing facility in the South Ozone Park neighborhood of Queens, New York City. The racetrack opened in 1894 and has a one-mile dirt track and a 1 1/8-mile inner turf course. It is owned and operated by the New York Racing Association (NYRA), which also owns Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course.

Aqueduct Racetrack is home to several prestigious horse races, including the Wood Memorial Stakes, a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby. The track has also hosted other notable races, such as the Cigar Mile Handicap and the Carter Handicap. Aqueduct Racetrack has a winterized track, which allows it to operate year-round, even during the colder months.

Did You Know?

The facility also includes a casino with video lottery terminals.


6. Churchill Downs

Year Started: 1875
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Course Type: Flat
Owned By: Churchill Downs Incorporated

Churchill Downsphoto source: wdrb.com

Churchill Downs, situated in Louisville, Kentucky, is a well-known racetrack exclusively meant for thoroughbred racing. Established in 1875, it is best known for hosting the first leg of the American Triple Crown, the renowned Kentucky Derby.

Churchill Downs has a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong turf track, providing ample opportunities for horse racing enthusiasts to witness top-notch racing events.

Churchill Downs Incorporated, a publicly traded company, is the proud owner and operator of the racetrack, and it also manages a few other racetracks and casinos throughout the United States. Apart from the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs hosts several other significant horse races, including the Kentucky Oaks, the Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Clark Handicap. These races attract thousands of spectators and generate much revenue for the racetrack.

Did You Know?

The venue also houses the Kentucky Derby Museum, a popular attraction for visitors to the racetrack. The museum features fascinating exhibits showcasing the track’s rich history and the Kentucky Derby.


5. Monmouth Park Racetrack

Year Started: 1870
Location: Oceanport, New Jersey
Course Type: Flat
Owned By: NJSEA

Monmouth Park Racetrackphoto source: Monmouth Park

Monmouth Park Racetrack is a flat thoroughbred horse racing facility in Oceanport, New Jersey, USA. The racetrack opened in 1870, one of the oldest racetracks in the United States. The track has a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong turf course.

The racetrack has undergone renovations and upgrades, including constructing a new grandstand and clubhouse in 2012.

The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) owns and operates the racetrack. Monmouth Park hosts several notable horse racing events, including the Haskell Invitational Stakes, the United Nations Stakes, and the Monmouth Cup. These races attract top horses, jockeys, and trainers worldwide.

Did You Know?

In addition to horse racing, Monmouth Park also features a sports bar, restaurants, and a picnic area for visitors.


4. Pimlico Race Course

Year Started: 1870
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Course Type: Flat
Owned By: Stronach Group

Pimlico Race Coursephoto source: HorceRacing.net

Pimlico Race Course is a thoroughbred horse racing facility in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The racetrack opened in 1870 and has a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong turf course. It is one of the oldest racetracks in the United States and is best known for hosting the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the American Triple Crown.

Over the years, Pimlico has undergone several renovations and upgrades, including constructing a new clubhouse and grandstand in 2006. However, the racetrack needs significant infrastructure improvements, and there has been debate about whether to renovate the existing facility or build a new one.

Did You Know?

Pimlico hosts several other notable horse racing events, including the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, held on the day before the Preakness Stakes.


3. Saratoga Race Course

Year Started: 1863
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York
Course Type: Flat/Thoroughbred
Owned By: State of New York

Saratoga Race Coursephoto source: Discover Saratoga

Saratoga Race Course, situated in Saratoga Springs, New York, is a flat thoroughbred horse racing facility operational since 1863, making it one of the oldest racetracks in the United States.

Saratoga Race Course is famous for hosting several significant horse racing events, including the Travers Stakes, the Whitney Stakes, and the Woodward Stakes, which attract top horses, jockeys, and trainers from across the globe.

Over the years, Saratoga Race Course has undergone various upgrades and renovations, including constructing a new grandstand and clubhouse in 2019. The venue also boasts several dining options, such as the well-known Turf Terrace and the premium dining experience offered by the 1863 Club.

Did You Know?

The racetrack is a vital economic contributor to the local community, generating significant revenue for businesses in the surrounding area during the racing season.


2. Fair Grounds Race Course

Year Started: 1838
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Course Type: Flat/Thoroughbred
Owned By: Churchill Downs Incorporated

Fair Grounds Race Coursephoto source: TripAdvisor

Fair Grounds Race Course is a historic flat thoroughbred racing facility in New Orleans, Louisiana. It was established in 1838, making it one of the oldest racetracks in the United States. The racetrack is owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated, a publicly-traded company that owns several other racetracks and casinos across the United States.

Apart from the horse racing events, the Fair Grounds Race Course also offers visitors a range of dining and entertainment options. The racetrack features several restaurants and bars, including the Clubhouse Dining Room and the Miller Lite Beer Garden, which offer a variety of cuisine and drinks.

Did You Know?

The Fair Grounds Race Course is also home to a casino with over 600 slot machines and table games such as blackjack and roulette.


1. Freehold Raceway

Year Started: Early 1830s
Location: Freehold, New Jersey
Course Type: Harness racing
Owned By: Penn Entertainment and Greenwood Racing

Freehold Racewayphoto source: NJ Online Gambling

Freehold Raceway is a historic harness racing track in Freehold, New Jersey. The track has operated since the early 1830s, making it the oldest racetrack in the United States. Harness racing, which involves horses pulling two-wheeled carts known as sulkies, is the main type of racing held at Freehold Raceway.

The racetrack is currently owned by Penn Entertainment and Greenwood Racing, and it features a half-mile oval track. Freehold Raceway is home to the Freehold Stakes, a prestigious harness racing event that has been held annually since 1919. The event attracts top horses and drivers from around the country, and it is a favorite among harness racing enthusiasts.

Did You Know?

The racetrack hosts several other notable harness racing events, including the Dexter Cup and the Lady Suffolk Stakes. These races are watched by millions of fans worldwide, and they are an essential part of the harness racing season.


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