In Louisiana the thrill of live thoroughbred and quarter horse racing is not just a pastime, but a legally sanctioned activity, thanks to the state’s approval of pari mutuel wagering. You also have the freedom to engage in off-track and simulcast wagering. This article will take a close look at Louisiana race tracks, and the state’s unique approach to legal gambling.
Address: 2717 Delta Downs Dr, Vinton, LA 70668
Phone: 800-589-7441
Delta Downs is a premier destination in Louisiana that hosts both thoroughbred and quarter horse races. Whether you’re watching the live racing action or participating in off-track/simulcast wagering, the excitement is palpable.
With a handy mobile betting app, you can place a variety of bets, including Show, Win, Place, Exacta, Quinella, and Trifecta, right at your fingertips. The compact 0.3-mile racetrack, with no entrance fee, offers a multiscreen off-track betting experience that is second to none.
The fun doesn’t stop at the races; with live entertainment and sports wagering on offer, your visit to Delta Downs is sure to be a memorable one.
Address: 2235 Creswell Lane Extension, Opelousas, LA 70570
Phone: 866-472-2466
As a host to both thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, Evangeline Downs provides an adrenaline-fueled experience. With live racing, simulcast, and off-track betting, you have multiple ways to join the action. Their state-of-the-art betting parlor and mobile app make wagering a breeze.
The one-mile racetrack and ample seating in the grandstand ensure a fantastic view of the races. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee. Don’t forget to head to the Silks Clubhouse, where you can savor delicious food while enjoying an amazing view of the track.
Address: 1751 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70119
Phone: 504-944-5515
Hosting both thoroughbred and quarter horse races, it offers a variety of betting options such as Daily Double, Trifecta, Superfecta, Win, Place, Exacta, and more. The live racing, simulcast, and off-track betting, along with a handy mobile app, make your betting experience seamless.
Fair Grounds Race Course is home to some of the biggest Louisiana horse racing events. You can watch a selection of races live including the Louisiana Stakes, Mineshaft Stakes, Louisiana Derby, and New Orleans Classic.
With 40 screens around the establishment and 800 seats at the racetrack, you’re guaranteed a great view of the one-mile dirt and 0.8-mile turf tracks. Beyond racing, the venue also offers a sportsbook, slot games, and a variety of dining options, including Clubhouse dining, Gentilly Grill, and Fair Grounds Concessions. With no entrance fee, your racing season from November to March is sure to be exciting.
Address: 8000 East Texas St, Bossier City, LA 71111
Phone: 318-742-5555
This premier racing venue offers you a thrilling experience with live thoroughbred and quarter horse races, off-track, and simulcast wagering. With a variety of betting options like Show, Win, Place, Pick 3/4/6, Daily Double, and Trifecta, you’ll have ample opportunities to test your luck. The mobile betting app ensures you never miss a moment of action.
With 1,200 seats at the racetrack and 40 screens, you’re guaranteed a fantastic view of the one-mile dirt and 0.8-mile turf tracks. Plus, there’s no entrance fee. The venue also features over 300 casino games for additional entertainment. With 100 days of Grade III racing each year, your visit to Louisiana Downs will be unforgettable.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to all the racetracks you can visit in the state.
| Racetracks | Address | Phone Number | Betting Allowed? |
| Delta Downs | 2717 Delta Downs Dr, Vinton, LA 70668 | 800-589-7441 | Yes |
| Evangeline Downs | 2235 Creswell Lane Extension, Opelousas, LA 70570 | 866-472-2466 | Yes |
| Fair Grounds Race Course | 1751 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70119 | 504-944-5515 | Yes |
| Louisiana Downs | 8000 East Texas St, Bossier City, LA 71111 | 318-742-5555 | Yes |
In Louisiana, simulcast wagering is completely legal and widely available. This means you can place bets on live horse races happening in different locations, all from the comfort of your chosen facility.
| Betting Location | Address |
| Louisiana Downs | 2791 Hwy 602, Mound, LA 71282 |
| Races & Aces | 1051 Laurel St, Eunice, LA 70535 |
| Races & Aces | 2939 A Grand Point Hwy, Breaux Bridge, LA |
| Races & Aces | 2308 N Main St, St Martinville, LA 70582 |
| Elmwood Fair Grounds | 5428 Citrus Blvd, Harahan, LA 70123 |
| Kenner Fair Grounds | 1700 Joe Yenni Blvd, Kenner, LA 70065 |
| Westwego Fair Grounds | 800 Westbank Expy, Westwego, LA 70094 |
| Gretna Fair Grounds | 64A Westbank Expy, Gretna, LA 70053 |
| Houma Fair Grounds | 111 Moss Ln, Houma, LA 70360 |
| Thibodaux Fair Grounds | 1766 Canal Blvd, Thibodaux, LA 70301 |
| Metairie Fair Grounds | 2700 Edenborn Ave, Metairie, LA 70002 |
| Slidell Fair Grounds | 798 I-10 Service Rd, Slidell, LA 70461 |
| Chalmette Fair Grounds | 8700 W Judge Perez Dr, Chalmette, LA 70043 |
| Meraux Fair Grounds | 4242 E Judge Perez Dr, Meraux, LA 70075 |
| Boutte Fair Grounds | 12715 US-90 Suite 145, Luling, LA 70070 |
| Covington Fair Grounds | 315 U.S. Hwy 190, Covington, LA 70433 |
| Destrehan Fair Grounds | 121 Ormond Center Ct, Destrehan, LA 70047 |
| LaPlace Fair Grounds | 209-229 E Airline Hwy, Laplace, LA 70068 |
| LaPlace Fair Grounds | 164 Belle Terre Blvd, Laplace, LA 70068 |
Here’s your list of the most popular horse races in Louisiana and their respective dates.
| Horse Races | Racing Dates | Where to Bet |
| Louisiana Stakes | January | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Lecomte Stakes | January | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Rachel Alexandra Stakes | February | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Fair Grounds Stakes | February | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Mineshaft Stakes | February | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Risen Star Stakes | February | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Fair Grounds Oaks | March | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Louisiana Derby | March | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| Muniz Memorial Classic | March | Fair Grounds Race Course |
| New Orleans Classic | March | Fair Grounds Race Course |
In Louisiana, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to legal horse betting. You can enjoy both thoroughbred betting and quarter horse betting, opening up a world of possibilities for wagering.
Whether you prefer to keep it simple with a Win, Place, or Show bet, or want to try your luck with a Trifecta, Superfecta, or Exacta, there’s something for everyone. If you’re feeling particularly strategic, why not try a Daily Double or even a Pick 3, 4, or 6.
With such a wide selection of bets available, you can truly tailor your betting experience to your personal preferences and strategies.
Review all there is to know about Louisiana gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:
Louisiana horse racing has been a significant part of the state’s culture since the late 1800s. In 1908, a bill known as Locke Law banned Louisiana horse racing, but it was repealed just eight years later. In 1968, lawmakers passed a bill to regulate horse racing and pari mutuel betting, leading to the establishment of the Louisiana State Racing Commission, which enforces all statutes regarding horse racing and pari mutuel betting.
In 1992, the PASPA: Sports Protection Act was enacted, which effectively outlawed sports betting nationwide, excluding a few states. However, this didn’t have a direct impact on Louisiana horse racing, as the industry was regulated under different laws.
In 1988, off-track betting was introduced in Louisiana, followed by simulcast betting in 1998. The turn of the millennium saw the legalization of advance deposit wagering. In 2003, construction began on a new $96 million Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino.
Despite setbacks, such as the failed 2008 SB785 proposal to bring back Louisiana horse racing to Evangeline Downs, the industry has persevered. Half of all racing revenue is distributed between Louisiana trainers and breeders, underlining the state’s commitment to supporting this historic industry.
While US gambling laws by state differ, you can enjoy legal live horse races and off-track betting in the state. The Louisiana State Racing Commission regulates all aspects of horse racing and pari mutuel betting. Additionally, advance deposit wagering is also legal, allowing you to bet on horse races online.
Yes, you can bet on horse races in other states. Thanks to advance deposit wagering, you can place bets online from the comfort of your home. This means you can wager on races taking place not only in Louisiana but also in other states across the country. It’s a convenient way to participate in the excitement of horse racing nationwide.
The largest horse racetrack in Louisiana is the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. You’ll find it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm. The Fair Grounds Race Course hosts numerous notable races, including the Louisiana Derby.
Yes, you can bet on horse races online in Louisiana. The state permits online betting on horse races through licensed websites. This means you can place your wagers from the comfort of your own home, or anywhere you have internet access. It’s a convenient way to engage in the thrill of horse racing without having to physically be at the racetrack, as long as you practice responsible gambling.
There are several ways you can bet on Louisiana racing events. Firstly, you can go to the Louisiana race tracks in person and place your bets. Secondly, you can use off-track betting facilities, which are licensed venues where you can bet on races that are happening elsewhere. Lastly, you can also bet online through licensed websites, which allows you to place bets from the comfort of your own home or anywhere with internet access.
In Louisiana, the minimum gambling age to bet on horse races is 18 years old. This applies whether you’re betting at a racetrack, an off-track betting facility, or online. Always ensure you’re of legal age before participating in any form of gambling to avoid any legal issues.
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