South Dakota Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in SD

Learn about South Dakota's race tracks and legal horse race betting options

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As an enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that the state lawfully permits pari mutuel wagering on South Dakota horse racing, allowing you to engage in off-track betting. You can also experience the thrill of live South Dakota horse racing at two county fairs. So, let’s explore the world of horse racing betting in the state.

Most Popular South Dakota Race Tracks

Stanley County Fairgrounds

Address: 310 Casey Tibbs St, Fort Pierre, SD 57532
Phone: 605-223-2178

Stanley County Fairgrounds is an iconic venue located in Fort Pierre, South Dakota. Every year in October, over the course of two days, usually the first weekend, you can partake in popular horse race meets such as the 1889 Futurity and SD QH Futurity.

Stanley County

The betting here is pari mutuel, offering a fair and exciting wagering experience. Beyond the races, you’ll appreciate the venue’s additional amenities, which include an indoor arena and concession stands, adding to your overall enjoyment. This historic South Dakota horse racing venue, approved by the South Dakota Commission of Gaming, is a must-visit for any racing enthusiast.

Brown County Fair

Address: 400 24th Ave NW, Aberdeen, SD 57401
Phone: 605-626-7116

Brown County Fair horse racing is held annually on a half-mile dirt track. When you’re not placing bets on the horses, you can enjoy a variety of other entertainment options. Imagine yourself rocking out to live music in the grandstand, which doubles as a concert venue, or taking a ride on one of the carnival attractions.

Brown County

You can also enjoy the Dacotah Bank Stampede Rodeo, visit the adorable bunny barn, or take your kids to a zone filled with duck races and inflatables, plus so much more. With seating for 5,000 in the grandstand, there’s room for everyone to enjoy this lively and entertaining event.

List of All South Dakota Race Tracks

Learn all about the two South Dakota race tracks hosted by county fairs.

RacetrackAddressPhone NumberBetting Allowed?
Stanley County Fairgrounds310 Casey Tibbs St, Fort Pierre, SD 57532605-223-2178Yes
Brown County Fair400 24th Ave NW, Aberdeen, SD 57401605-626-7116Yes

Simulcast Wagering in South Dakota

As a betting enthusiast, you might be surprised to learn that South Dakota hosts only one simulcast wagering location. This venue provides an opportunity to place bets on horse races taking place across the country.

Betting LocationAddress
Triple Crown Casino108 Military Rd, North Sioux City, SD 57049

Popular Horse Races in South Dakota with Dates

South Dakota has a line-up of races that you won’t want to miss. This list provides all the dates and details you need to plan your racing calendar.

Horse RacesRacing DatesWhere to Bet
1889 FuturityOctoberStanley County Fairgrounds
SD QH FuturityOctoberStanley County Fairgrounds

Types of Legal Horse Betting in South Dakota

In South Dakota, the only form of legal horse betting is pari mutuel wagering. This type of betting involves pooling all wagers together and splitting the pot among the winners. You can enjoy standardbred and thoroughbred betting.

Thoroughbreds are known for their speed and agility, typically participating in flat races. On the other hand, Standardbreds, known for their endurance and steadiness, often compete in harness racing.

If you want to enjoy other types of horse races such as quarter horse racing, you will have to visit other states’ live race tracks or simulcast venues.

Other Types of Gambling in South Dakota

Here’s everything you should know about South Dakota gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

History of South Dakota Horse Racing

The history of South Dakota horse racing is intertwined with the broader history of betting in the United States. The PASPA: Sports Protection Act was enacted in 1992, which effectively banned sports betting nationwide. However, this did not include horse racing, and South Dakota continued to permit pari mutuel betting, a form of gambling where all bets are pooled together and the winnings distributed among the successful bettors.

South Dakota also allows off-track betting year-round, expanding the opportunities for enthusiasts to engage in this thrilling activity. The South Dakota Commission on Gaming oversees all pari mutuel wagering in the state, ensuring fair and regulated betting practices.

In 2005, a significant development occurred when the bill SB95 was introduced, authorizing account wagering. This allowed you to place bets from the comfort of your own home, adding a new dimension to South Dakota horse racing betting.

South Dakota Gambling FAQ

Is South Dakota horse racing legal?

US gambling laws by state vary, but yes, horse racing is legal in South Dakota. You can enjoy pari mutuel betting, a form of gambling where all bets are pooled together and the winnings are distributed among the successful bettors. The state also allows off-track betting year-round. All these activities are overseen by the South Dakota Commission on Gaming, ensuring fair and regulated betting practices.

Can I bet on horse races in other states?

Yes, you can bet on horse races in other states. South Dakota allows off-track betting, which means you can place wagers on races happening elsewhere. This is done at the state’s standalone off-track betting facility. So, even if you’re in South Dakota, you can still participate in the excitement of horse races across the country.

What’s the largest of all South Dakota race tracks?

The largest horse racetrack in South Dakota is Fort Pierre Race Track. Located in Fort Pierre, this track has a rich history and is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts. It hosts a variety of races throughout the season, providing you with ample opportunities to experience the thrill of the sport.

Can I bet on horse races online in South Dakota?

Yes, you can bet on horse races online in South Dakota. The state has legalized advance deposit wagering, which allows you to place bets on horse races over the internet. This means you can enjoy the thrill of South Dakota racing and place your bets from the comfort of your own home.

How can I bet on South Dakota horse racing events?

There are several ways you can bet on horse racing events in South Dakota. You can place bets in person at South Dakota race tracks at county fairs, which offer a vibrant and exciting betting environment. Additionally, South Dakota offers simulcasting, which allows you to bet on live racing events from other locations. Lastly, online betting is also an option thanks to the state’s legalization of advance deposit wagering.

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

In South Dakota, you must be at least 18 years old to bet on horse races. This minimum gambling age applies to all forms of betting, whether it’s in-person at a horse race track, through simulcasting, or online. Make sure you’re of legal age before you place your bets, and always practice responsible gambling.

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