Race Track Destinations: The Best Tracks in the United States

Now that you have the racing lingo down pat, you understand the different types of bets, and you have an idea of the kind of race you want to see. It’s time to pick a track to visit and get started. There are hundreds of racetracks all over the country, but some are undoubtedly more popular than others. This section suggests some racetracks to visit and provides a brief overview of each destination.

Churchill Downs is one of the oldest and most respected racetracks in the country and is located in Louisville, Kentucky. It is known for hosting the Kentucky Derby every year, an event most Thoroughbred owners look forward to with unparalleled gusto. The facilities were renovated in the eighties and feature multiple tracks, 47 barns full of the finest horses in the world and a variety of restaurants to indulge in on race day. Admission on any regular race day is around $2, but if you are want to attend more popular and competitive races, be prepared to pay as much as $40. This track is known for attracting some of the best racehorses in history and is a definite must-see racetrack.

Located near Los Angeles, California, Santa Anita Park is one of the largest and most famous parks in the country. Its enormous grandstand holds thousands of spectators and the grounds are constantly covered in an array of beautiful plants and flowers making this one of the most pleasant racetracks around. Santa Anita Park also offers some of the best dining experiences available at a racetrack. For a warm environment coupled with a great track experience that beckons some of the best horses, visit Santa Anita Park.

Belmont Park sprawls over 320 acres in Belmont, New York and will host The Breeder’s Cup races this year. Like the two tracks mentioned above, Belmont primarily caters to Thoroughbred racing and usually attracts some big contenders at its more popular races. This is an old traditional park that appreciates guests that commemorate the sport with appropriate dress and behavior. For a racing atmosphere that hosts great racers with a traditional touch, visit Belmont Park.

For more information on racetracks in your area, contact the national racing associations that deal with your specified race type. These organizations can provide helpful information on the closest tracks with the best races.