Idaho Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in ID

In Idaho, you’ll find that pari mutuel horse racing betting is perfectly legal, allowing you to engage in wagering either in person at the tracks or at off-track betting facilities. As a horse racing fan, you have the freedom to enjoy this pastime under the watchful eye of the Idaho Racing Commission, which ensures the sport’s integrity in the state.

Most Popular Idaho Race Tracks

Pocatello Downs

Address: 10588 Fairground Rd, Pocatello, ID
Phone: 208-989-8618

Pocatello Downs is a premier Idaho horse racing venue. As you step through the gates, you’ll only need to part with a modest $2 entrance fee. Here, you can experience some of the biggest races in Idaho, including the Pocatello Downs QH Championship and the IQHA Idaho Cup Derby.

The racing season kicks off in May and concludes in September. Throughout the season, you have a choice of various thoroughbred racing events to wager on. From straight bets such as win and place to more complex options like exacta, trifecta, and quinella, the betting opportunities are plentiful and cater to all levels of experience.

Take a seat among the 1,500 available and enjoy the one-mile-long racetrack, dedicated solely to thoroughbred horse racing. The convenience doesn’t end there – with free parking on-site and a complimentary shuttle bus service to and from the airport, your visit to Pocatello Downs is sure to be a seamless experience.

Oneida County Fair

Address: 459 S Main St, Malad City, ID 83252
Phone: 208-766-4706

The All Breed Derby, Quarter Horse Maturity, and Oneida County Derby are the highlights of the season, showcasing the finest equine athletes. The half-mile oval racetrack, operating counter-clockwise, adds an extra layer of excitement to the competition. With trials one weekend and races the next, you’re guaranteed an enjoyable spectacle.

Your experience doesn’t stop at the racetrack. The fair is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of entertainment. From kid’s crafts and dog shows to mini horse shows and children’s parties, there’s something for everyone.

Parking is hassle-free, leaving you to focus on the fun. Whether you’re an Idaho horse racing enthusiast or looking for a family-friendly day out, the Oneida County Fair delivers a great experience.

Eastern Idaho State Fair

Address: 97 Park St, Blackfoot, ID 83221
Phone: 208-785-2480

Eastern Idaho State Fair is a week-long extravaganza held every September. Two of the most popular Idaho horse racing events at the fair include AQHA Challenge – Futurity and Distaff. But the fun doesn’t stop at the racetrack. The fair is a haven of family-friendly entertainment.

From comedy shows to the action of the Demo Derby and Bull Riding Championships, there’s never a dull moment. You can engage your little ones with children’s storytime and the ‘Meet the Animals’ segment. Or test yourself in the eating contests or enjoy the carnival.

Cassia County Fair

Address: 1101 Elba Ave, Burley, ID 83318
Phone: 208-678-9150

As you step into the Cassia County Fair, you’re instantly drawn to exciting thoroughbred betting options. The fair, a beloved tradition since 2005, boasts a roster of top-tier racing events from across the USA, all showcased at their very own racetrack. Place your bets – be it win, place, exacta, or quinella – and watch the race unfold. With over 1,000 seats at the racetrack, you’re assured a good view of the action.

But the fair isn’t just about horse racing, with something for everyone in the family. Hop onto fair rides, and enjoy live concerts or garden exhibits. Plus, with ample free parking, your visit is hassle-free.

Jerome County Fair

Address: 205 N Fir St, Jerome, ID 83338
Phone: 208-324-7209

At the Jerome County Fair, you’ll enjoy a roster of thoroughbred horse racing on the half-mile track. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a novice, the fair provides a variety of betting options. From straight and horizontal to exotic bets, you’ll find a wager that suits your style. Plus, with simulcast and off-track betting, you won’t miss a single moment of the action.

For an entrance fee of just $5-$10, you can bring the whole family and enjoy a day packed with fun and entertainment. Children can marvel at the races, enjoy the carnival, and play in the dedicated children’s area. The fair also offers concerts, motorsports, and free entertainment. And don’t forget the food vendors, serving up delicious fair treats.

List of All Idaho Race Tracks

Explore a full list of Idaho race tracks that are available within the state.

Simulcast Wagering in Idaho

This form of betting allows you to place wagers on horse races happening in real-time across the country, right from your local betting facility. Rest assured, simulcast horse race betting is completely legal and widely available across a range of facilities in the state.

Here are your options for placing off-track bets on horse races in Idaho:

Popular Horse Races in Idaho with Dates

Here we’ll guide you through the most popular horse races in Idaho and when they take place.

Types of Horse Betting in Idaho

In Idaho, you have the opportunity to place a variety of bets on both quarter horse and thoroughbred racing. In quarter horse racing, renowned for its intensity, you can bet on the fastest horse to run a quarter of a mile. Thoroughbred racing, on the other hand, is all about endurance and strategy over longer distances.

As for the types of bets, you can place straight bets like ‘Win’, where you bet on a horse to finish first; ‘Place’, betting on a horse to finish first or second; and ‘Show’, betting on a horse to finish in the top three.

You can also try exotic bets like ‘Exacta’, ‘Trifecta’, or ‘Superfecta’, where you predict the top two, three, or four finishers in exact order. Each type of bet offers a unique blend of risk and reward, ensuring an exhilarating betting experience in Idaho.

Other Types of Gambling in Idaho

Find out more about Idaho gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

• Idaho Online Casinos
• Idaho Online Sportsbooks
• Idaho Online Poker
• Idaho No Deposit Bonuses
• Idaho Lottery
• Idaho Sportsbooks

History of Idaho Horse Racing

The Horse Racing Act was established in 1963. This act allowed pari mutuel betting to be hosted on both live and simulcast racing, paving the way for the first pari mutuel race in the state in 1964 at the Gem County Fairgrounds and the Eastern Idaho State Fair.

In 1970, you could have experienced live racing at the newly opened Les Bois Park racetrack. Unfortunately, it closed in 2009 due to issues between the track owners and Ada County. Live horse racing also ended at the North Idaho Fair in 1983.

In 1987, an amendment was made to the Horse Racing Act which authorized live greyhound racing. By 2003, advance deposit wagering was approved by the legislature. In 2011, a simulcast law was approved that allowed simulcast horse betting to be hosted at locations other than just live racing facilities.

In 2013, Idaho introduced HB220, which allowed pari mutuel wagering on historical horse races. However, despite the Supreme Court striking down the PASPA: Sports Protection Act in 2018, sports betting remains illegal in Idaho as lawmakers have not introduced a single bill to legalize it.

Idaho Gambling FAQ

Is Idaho horse racing legal?

While US gambling laws vary by state, horse racing is perfectly legal in Idaho. The state has a rich history of horse racing dating back to 1963 when the Idaho Horse Racing Act was established. You can participate in pari-mutuel betting on both live and simulcast racing.

Can I bet on horse races in other states?

Yes, you can bet on horse races in other states while in Idaho. The state permits simulcast and off-track betting, which means you can place wagers on races happening across the USA. However, it’s always a good idea to stay updated with the latest US state & federal regulations to ensure your betting activities are legal.

Can I bet on horse races online in Idaho?

Yes, you can bet on horse races online in Idaho, but there are some limitations. Because online gambling isn’t regulated in the state, your options are limited to offshore betting sites. These sites allow you to place bets on horse races, but it’s important to ensure they are reputable and secure.

How can I bet on Idaho horse racing events?

There are several ways you can bet on Idaho horse racing events. You can visit live racetracks and place your bets directly. If you can’t make it to the track, you can also participate through simulcast and off-track betting facilities, which broadcast races from different locations. Additionally, you can use online betting sites, particularly those based offshore, to place your bets.

What are the best Idaho race tracks?

Choosing the best Idaho race tracks can depend on personal preference, but the Eastern Idaho State Fair is steeped in history and well-loved by locals. However, Pocatello Downs is also a top choice, as it hosts numerous popular races. Both offer unique experiences, so you might want to visit both to decide which one you prefer.

What’s the minimum age to bet on horses in Idaho?

As the legal gambling age by state varies, it’s important to understand the rules in your home state. In Idaho, the minimum age to bet on horse races is 18 years old. So, you must be at least 18 to legally place a bet on horse racing in the state. Always remember to enjoy responsible gambling and within the legal requirements of your location.