In Pennsylvania, the land-based horse racing betting scene has seen significant growth and transformation over the years. The Horse Racing Industry Reform Act paved the way for the establishment of racetracks, with The Meadows Racetrack being the first to open its doors in 1963.
Later, in 2004, Act 71, also known as the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development and Gaming Act, further expanded the horizons for racetracks and casinos by establishing the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
This legislation legalized not only casinos but also horse race betting within the state’s confines, providing residents with an enriched gambling experience focused on the thrill of the races.
In this guide, we will highlight several popular pari-mutuel betting venues that Pennsylvania residents can enjoy.
Address: 777 Hollywood Blvd, Grantville, PA 17028, USA
Phone: +1 717-469-2211
Penn National Race Course, located in Grantville, Pennsylvania, has been a central figure in the state’s horse racing community since its inauguration in 1972. Over the years, it has hosted significant events such as the Pennsylvania Governor’s Cup, a spirited sprint race on turf; the Grade II Penn Mile for three-year-old thoroughbreds; and the Penn Ladies Dash for fillies and mares.
For those keen on betting, the course provides a wide range of options. Traditional bets such as Win, Place, and Show are available, along with more complex wagers like Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta.
For those seeking extended excitement, the Daily Double and Pick 3, 4, 5, and 6 wagers challenge bettors to select consecutive race winners. Beyond its own thrilling races, Penn National offers simulcast racing, where races from tracks across the nation can be watched and wagered on.
Visitors to Penn National Race Course, a prominent feature of the Hollywood Casino, are treated to more than just horse racing. The entertainment extends beyond the racetrack, reflecting the vibrant atmosphere Hollywood Casino is renowned for. Patrons can indulge in gourmet delights at the Final Cut Steakhouse or opt for a more laid-back meal at The Eatery by Fabio Viviani.
For those looking to test their luck, the Barstool Sportsbook awaits with a multitude of betting options. Beyond the thrill of the races, the casino beckons with an array of slots and table games, ensuring an exciting experience for all.
Additionally, the Penn Hero Stage, in association with iHeartRadio, rolls out an impressive lineup of outdoor concerts, featuring some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, further cementing the venue’s status as a premier entertainment destination.
Address: Washington Federal Way, Washington, PA 15301, USA
Phone: +1 724-503-1200
Meadowlands Racetrack and Casino, located in Washington, Pennsylvania, stands as a beacon for horse racing enthusiasts. Known for hosting prestigious events, the track has become a hub for both quarter horse racing and thoroughbred betting in the region.
Beyond the allure of marquee races, patrons are presented with a diverse array of pari-mutuel wagering options. From standard win, place, and show bets to more intricate wagers like exactas and trifectas, there’s something for everyone at this iconic racing venue.
But the excitement at Meadowlands isn’t confined to the racetrack. It’s an extension of the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, where visitors can try their luck at an expansive casino filled with slots and table games. Those looking for a more laid-back form of entertainment can roll a few frames at the bowling alley or attend events at The Meadows Event Center.
Dining is an experience unto itself with diverse options like The Eatery by Fabio Viviani and The Pub Trackside offering culinary delights. Bettors can immerse themselves in the action at the Barstool Sportsbook or unwind at the Embers Lounge or Bistecca.
For guests looking to extend their stay, hotel deals are available, ensuring comfortable rooms and suites to rejuvenate after a day filled with excitement.
Address: 777 Harrah’s Blvd, Chester, PA 19013, USA
Phone: +1 484-490-1800
Harrah’s Philadelphia Racetrack, an integral part of Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack, has carved a niche for itself in the Pennsylvania racing landscape. Located in the heart of the state, this racetrack showcases the fervor of live racing, drawing both enthusiasts and novices to experience the adrenaline firsthand.
Among its flagship events, the Maxie Lee Memorial Invitational stands out, named in homage to the eminent horseman Maxie Lee. This race annually welcomes an elite field of older trotters and pacers from nationwide.
The Betsy Ross Invitational, specifically tailored for older pacing mares, serves as another crown jewel, gathering the crème de la crème of female standardbreds from North America.
Additionally, the Great Northeast Open Series, a recurring spectacle spanning Harrah’s Philadelphia, Pocono Downs, and other notable Pennsylvania race tracks, culminates in nail-biting finals, often hosted by Harrah’s Philadelphia.
Bettors at Harrah’s have a diverse range of wagering choices including win, place, show, as well as the more intricate exactas and trifectas.
Visitors, however, are treated to more than just horse racing. The expansive casino offers a diverse gaming experience, while ongoing casino promotions ensure there’s always something exciting around the corner.
Sports enthusiasts can indulge in the state-of-the-art sportsbook, and when it’s time to relax and refuel, a variety of restaurants cater to diverse palates. As the sun sets, the nightlife options promise a vibrant and memorable end to any day spent at this iconic venue.
Pennsylvania is home to several renowned racetracks. Here’s a list of the major ones in the state:
| Race track | Race Track |
| Penn National Race Course | Parx Racing |
| Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack | Presque Isle Downs & Casino |
| Mohegan Sun Pocono | Hollywood Casino at The Meadows |
| The Meadows Racetrack |
Gambling legislation across US states allows for simulcast wagering in nearly all states, including Pennsylvania. This popular betting option lets enthusiasts place bets on horse races occurring in other locations, both nationally and internationally.
Legally permitted in the state, it enables bettors to engage with a broader range of racing events without the need to be present at the actual racetrack.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, Pennsylvania’s simulcast offerings deliver diverse betting opportunities combined with the excitement of live racing action. Below are some prominent locations for simulcast wagering in Pennsylvania:
| Simulcast Wagering location | Address |
| Brandywine Turf Club | 1021 Baltimore Pike, Concordville, PA 19331 |
| Downs Off Track Wagering | 1780 Airport Road, Allentown, PA 18109 |
| Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack | 777 Harrah’s Blvd, Chester, PA 19013 |
| Hollywood Casino at The Meadows | 210 Racetrack Rd, Washington, PA 15301 |
| Mohegan Sun Pocono | 1280 PA-315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 |
| Northeast Turf Club | Roosevelt Mall Cottman & Bustleton Aves, Philadelphia, PA 19149 |
| Parx Racing | 2999 Street Rd, Bensalem, PA 19020 |
| Penn National Race Course | 777 Hollywood Blvd, Grantville, PA 17028 |
| Presque Isle Downs & Casino | 8199 Perry Hwy, Erie, PA 16509 |
| South Philly Turf Club | 700 Packer Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19148 |
| The Meadows – Harmar Township | 1 Anchor Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 |
| The Meadows – Moon Township | 1088 Beers School Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108 |
| The Meadows – New Castle | 2004 West State Street, New Castle, PA 16101 |
| The Meadows – West Mifflin | 7025 Clairton Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122 |
Pennsylvania has a longstanding tradition of horse racing, with many renowned races taking place annually. As enthusiasts mark their calendars for these events, responsible gambling practices are always encouraged to ensure a safe and enjoyable betting experience.
| Race Name | Location | Distance | Racing Date |
| Penn National Million | Penn National Race Course, Grantville, PA | 1 1/2 miles on dirt | September |
| Hazelnut Pace | The Meadows Racetrack, Washington, PA | 1 mile on a half-mile track | February |
| Allegheny Cup | Presque Isle Downs & Casino, Erie, PA | 1 1/16 miles on turf | August |
| Pennsylvania Derby | Parx Racing, Bensalem, PA | 1 1/8 miles on dirt | July |
| Princess Rooney Invitational | Penn National Race Course, Grantville, PA | 1 1/16 miles on turf | July |
Pennsylvania, renowned for its rich equestrian heritage, has been at the forefront of the horse racing industry for decades. With numerous reputable Pennsylvania race tracks dotting the landscape, enthusiasts have a myriad of betting options to indulge in. Below is a list of the most common ones:
This is the most traditional form of betting in horse racing. Pari-mutuel wagering ensures that the bettors are essentially wagering against one another and not against the house.
The total amount bet on a particular outcome (like a horse to win) is pooled together, and after the racetrack takes its cut, the rest is divided amongst the winning bettors.
These are the most straightforward wagers one can make. A “win” bet is simply betting on a horse to finish first. A “place” bet means betting on a horse to finish either first or second, and a “show” bet means betting on a horse to finish in the top three.
These are more complex wagers and can yield significant rewards. Some of the popular exotic bets include Exacta (picking the first and second finishers in the exact order), Trifecta (first three finishers in exact order), and Superfecta (first four finishers in exact order).
The Daily Double is one of the more straightforward multi-race wagers in horse racing. Bettors must select the winners of two consecutive races. Often, this bet is placed on the first two races or the last two races of the day, although some tracks might offer it on any two consecutive races.
The key to winning a Daily Double bet is not only finding one winner but connecting that winner with the horse in the next race to achieve a winning combination.
These sequential multi-race wagers challenge bettors to select the winners of consecutive races. The number indicates how many races a bettor must predict:
The difficulty increases with each additional race, but so does the potential payout. Especially challenging wagers like the Pick 6 can result in massive payouts, particularly when carryovers are involved or longshots emerge victorious. While enticing, these wagers also demand thorough analysis and strategy due to their complexity.
Arguably the most popular form of Pennsylvania horse racing, Thoroughbred betting involves races that feature the elite of horse racing. These horses are built for speed, and the races they compete in, often found during live racing events, are the ones that draw the most attention and bets.
Unlike Thoroughbreds which run long distances, Quarter horses sprint over shorter stretches, typically a quarter of a mile (hence the name). This form of racing offers quick, exhilarating races that are over in less than a minute. It’s a thrilling betting option for those who love high-speed action.
Pennsylvania’s regulatory environment ensures that all these forms of betting are safe and transparent for bettors.
However, if you’re looking for even more options and convenience, several online sportsbooks also offer extensive betting opportunities on horse races both within Pennsylvania and globally. These platforms often provide added flexibility, promotions, and a broader range of events to bet on, enhancing the overall betting experience.
Pennsylvania provides a broad spectrum of gambling activities beyond just horse racing. With a mix of casinos, sportsbooks, and other betting avenues, the Keystone State has established a varied gambling landscape.
In this section, you’ll find detailed information on the various betting options available in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re interested in table games, slots, or sports wagers, you’ll gain insights into what the state offers to its residents and visitors.
Pennsylvania horse racing has a storied history, tracing its roots back to the colonial era. The early settlers in the state introduced the sport, and over the centuries, it evolved, showcasing the passion and dedication of the locals towards equestrian activities.
Pennsylvania race tracks became central venues for these events, drawing large crowds eager to witness the spectacle of horse racing and engage in betting activities.
As the years progressed, Pennsylvania horse racing solidified its position in the national racing circuit, with Pennsylvania race tracks hosting significant events that attracted top-tier talent.
These tracks became more than just racing venues; they were hubs for social interaction and cultural events. Over the years, the allure of Pennsylvania race tracks has only grown, reflecting the state’s rich racing heritage and its pivotal role in shaping the sport in the United States.
Today, the legacy of Pennsylvania horse racing remains strong, continuing to enthrall generations of racing enthusiasts.
Yes, Pennsylvania horse racing is legal. It’s regulated by the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission, with pari-mutuel betting permitted at racetracks and licensed off-track locations. Some tracks also offer casino gaming.
Yes, while in Pennsylvania, you can bet on horse races from other states through simulcast wagering. This method is legally permitted in the state, allowing bettors to engage with races nationally and internationally.
The largest race track in Pennsylvania in terms of seating capacity and prestige is Parx Racing in Bensalem. It hosts significant events like the Pennsylvania Derby and has a prominent place in Pennsylvania horse racing.
Yes, you can bet on horse races online in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) legalized online horse racing betting in 2019, with platforms like TwinSpires and DRF Bets being popular choices. Additionally, many residents turn to safe and trusted offshore sportsbooks.
In Pennsylvania, you can place bets on horse racing at racetracks, OTB (off-track betting) parlors, or through online betting sites. Each venue offers a range of betting options, including live races both locally and nationally.
The minimum age to bet on horse races online in Pennsylvania is 21 years old. You must also have a valid government-issued ID.
Yes, Pennsylvania provides support for those facing horse racing betting addiction through organizations like the Pennsylvania Council on Problem Gambling. Their website contains valuable information on gambling addiction, self-assessment tools, and resources to seek assistance.
Pennsylvania was one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the repeal of the PASPA Sports Protection Act in 2018. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) issued regulations for sports betting in 2019, and the first sportsbooks opened in the state in July 2019.
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