New York Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in NY

When it comes to US gambling laws by state, each state varies. But as a bettor, you can engage in pari mutuel betting on New York horse racing and simulcasting, which are both legal and regulated in the state. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with 11 horse racetracks and hundreds of simulcast wagering locations scattered across New York. So, let’s take a look at the legalities surrounding land-based horse race track betting in New York.

Most Popular New York Race Tracks

Belmont Park

Address: 2150 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003
Phone: 718-641-4700

Belmont Park is a premier destination for thoroughbred betting, quarter horse racing, and harness racing. With a racing season that runs from April to July and September to October, you can catch the excitement mainly on weekends. Whether you’re a fan of Win, Place, Show, or more complex bets like Exacta, Trifecta, or Daily Double, Belmont Park caters to all.

For a mere $5 general admission, you get to experience live racing on the 1.5-mile-long racetrack with 32,000 seats. Not only that but there’s daily simulcast wagering too. As well as hosting popular races like Belmont Stakes, Acorn, and Champagne, it also offers trackside dining and family-friendly activities. From carnival games to bouncy castles, there’s something for everyone throughout the year.

Saratoga Race Course

Address: 267 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Phone: 518-584-6200

At Saratoga Race Course, live thoroughbred racing is hosted from July to September, every Wednesday through Sunday. With a mere $7 general admission, you gain access to the grandstand, equipped with simulcast TVs on the first and second floors, offering you a front-row seat to all the action. Whether you’re a fan of Superfecta, Exacta, Daily Double, Trifecta, Quinella, or Pick 3, this racetrack has you covered.

With 50,000 seats and a one and one-eighth-mile oval track, you’ll witness popular races like the Alabama, Diana, and Fourstardave Handicap. When hunger strikes, enjoy full-service dining or grab a quick bite at the concession stands. And remember, every Sunday is family day, featuring fun attractions and educational activities.

Aqueduct Racetrack

Address: 110-00 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11417
Phone: 718-641-4700

Aqueduct Racetrack is a premier thoroughbred racetrack in New York. From December to April, enjoy live racing, mostly held on weekends. With a one and one-eighth-mile oval track and 17,000 seats, the venue offers a captivating atmosphere. You can place a variety of bets, including Exacta, Daily Double, Superfecta, Trifecta, Quinella, and Pick 3.

Enjoy free general admission and parking. If you’re interested in simulcasting, it’s offered most days for a $10 entry fee. For dining, choose from concession stands, a fine dining restaurant, or food trucks. The casino offers 6,500 video gaming machines and 1,300 electronic table games for added entertainment. And if you’re planning to stay, there’s a 500-room hotel onsite.

Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel

Address: 8319 Park Road, Batavia, NY 14020
Phone: 585-815-7000

At Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel, the racing season spans from July to December and then January to February, offering you ample opportunities to place bets on Win, Place, Show, Daily Double, Exacta, Trifecta, Superfecta, and more. Live races are held on Wednesdays and Sundays for most of the season, with additional races on Sundays from July to August, and Fridays from September to October.

Enjoy year-round simulcasting seven days a week. On live race days, treat yourself to trackside dining for a truly immersive experience. With 850 casino machines, your entertainment is guaranteed. After an exciting day, unwind in the comfort of their 84-room hotel.

Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack

Address: 5857 NY-96, Farmington, NY 11425
Phone: 585-924-3232

Experience thoroughbred racing at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack. From April to November, enjoy live races every Monday to Wednesday, with betting options including Win, Place, Quinella, Exacta, Trifecta, and Quadrella. While the racetrack welcomes all ages, please note that the simulcast area is reserved for those 18 and over.

If you fancy a change of pace, step into the sprawling 44,000-square-foot casino. With over 1,000 video gaming machines, it’s a gambler’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a novice, Finger Lakes offers a memorable gaming experience.

List of All New York Race Tracks

Coming up, we’ll guide you through the premier New York race tracks.

Simulcast Wagering in New York

Simulcast wagering is fully legal and widely available in New York. The Empire State boasts over 150 off-track betting facilities, each providing a unique environment to enjoy the excitement of New York horse racing. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or nestled in a quaint town, a simulcast wagering location is never far away.

Popular Horse Races in New York with Dates

In this section, we take you through the most popular horse races in New York. The state is packed with exciting events. Here’s a list of horse races with dates so you never have to miss out.

Types of Legal Horse Betting in New York

In New York, you have a myriad of legal horse betting options. You can place bets like Win, Place, Show, or go for an Across the Board. For more complex bets, there’s Trifecta, Exacta, Superfecta, Daily Double, Pick 3, Pick 4, and Pick 5.

You can also wager on Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races. Beyond that, there’s a variety of race types offered including Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, and Harness races. Each type of race offers a unique betting experience, giving you a wealth of options for your wagering pleasure.

Other Types of Gambling in New York

Learn all about New York gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

• New York Online Casinos
• New York Online Sportsbooks
• New York Online Poker
• New York No Deposit Bonuses
• New York Casinos
• New York Bingo
• New York Lottery
• New York Sportsbooks

History of New York Horse Racing

The legalization of pari mutuel wagering in 1939 led to the creation of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board (NYSRWB). Fast forward to 1970, a law was introduced allowing local communities to operate pari mutuel off-track betting facilities, broadening the industry’s reach.

In 2008, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) was provided with a new mobile betting app by Sona Mobile Holdings, enhancing the betting experience.

However, 2009 brought a significant blow when the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation, established in 1970, had to file for bankruptcy protection due to mismanagement and a declining New York horse racing industry. Unfortunately, the State Senate did not pass a rescue bill, leading to the closure of 50 betting parlors.

In 2011, the NYSRWB approved simulcasting at three thoroughbred racetracks, a significant step forward. However, the industry took a hit when the PASPA: Sports Protection Act was passed, limiting sports betting.

Despite this, the New York State Gaming Commission was created in 2012 to oversee all policies and rules previously overseen by the NYSRWB. In 2019, a proposal to allow simulcasting of thoroughbred and harness races at four commercial casinos was partially approved, allowing one of the facilities to offer simulcasting. This progression shows the resilience of the New York horse racing industry.

New York Gambling FAQ

Is New York horse racing legal?

Yes, horse racing is legal in New York. You can enjoy live horse racing at several New York race tracks, including the famous Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. In addition to attending live races, you are also allowed to place bets on horse races through approved online platforms. Always make sure you are practicing responsible gambling guidelines.

Can I bet on horse races in other states?

Yes, you can bet on horse races in other states. This is made possible through the use of simulcast facilities, which broadcast races from tracks around the country. You can place your bets at these facilities, just as if you were at the track where the race is taking place. This allows you to participate in the betting action of races far beyond your local area.

What’s the largest race track in New York?

The largest horse race track in New York is Belmont Park. Located in Elmont, New York, Belmont Park features a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) main track known as the “Big Sandy,” the largest dirt course in thoroughbred racing. This iconic track is also home to the Belmont Stakes, the final jewel in the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing.

Can I bet on horse races online in New York?

Yes, you can bet on horse races online in New York. The state allows online and mobile wagering on horse races. There are several licensed websites and apps that offer this service, such as NYRA Bets. Just ensure you are of legal age and within the state’s borders when placing your bets.

How can I bet on New York horse racing events?

There are several ways you can bet on New York horse racing events. You can visit one of the 11 New York race tracks, where you can place bets directly. If you can’t make it to a racetrack, there are over 150 off-track betting facilities available across New York. Alternatively, you can also place your bets online through licensed betting sites, offering you the convenience of wagering from anywhere at any time.

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

In New York, the minimum gambling age for betting on horse races is 18 years old. This applies whether you’re betting at a racetrack, an off-track betting facility, or online.