Vermont Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in VT

Learn about Vermont's race tracks and legal horse race betting options

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The state has a rich history of Vermont horse racing but its racing scene is currently inactive. Although Vermont legally allows pari mutuel betting and simulcast wagering, you won’t find any active horse race tracks. Despite the legality of these forms of gambling, the Green Mountain State currently lacks the infrastructure for land-based race track betting.

Most Popular Vermont Race Tracks

The Green Mountain State currently hosts no active Vermont race tracks. But don’t fret, as your Vermont racing adventures can continue in neighboring states like Massachusetts. The following section will provide you with reviews of the top horse race tracks in Massachusetts.

Plainridge Park Casino

Address: 301 Washington St, Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: 508-576-4500

Plainridge Park Casino specializes in harness racing and offers off-track betting on thoroughbred races from Wednesday to Sunday. The range of bet types, including Win, Place, Show, Daily Double, Exacta, Superfecta, and Trifecta, caters to all levels of betting expertise.

Plainridge Park

The racetrack itself is 5/8 mile in length with a 600′ homestretch and 80′ breadth. You can witness around 102 live races during its racing season between April and November. Racing dates are generally on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and also on Sundays in September and October.

The casino at Plainridge Park is equally impressive, boasting 1,200 slots, electronic table games, and video poker. The venue frequently runs promotions, such as betting $200 and receiving $200 in free wagers for races.

Suffolk Downs

Address: 111 Waldemar Ave, Boston, MA 02128
Phone: 617-567-3900

Suffolk Downs boasts a rich history of over 70 years. While it once stood as a prominent beacon for live racing, the track announced the end of this tradition in 2014 due to competition and other forms of gambling. However, don’t write it off just yet. Suffolk Downs remains open today, offering year-round simulcasting and pari mutuel wagering, keeping the spirit of racing alive. 

Suffolk Downs

Beyond the track, it serves as a venue for a variety of events. You can enjoy the Canine Aquatics Competition, live concerts at The Stage, and an array of children’s activities like science experiments, games, and challenges.

Types of Horse Betting in Vermont

In Vermont, you’re limited to online betting or traveling to neighboring states for live horse racing. You can place a variety of bets, including Win, Show, Place, Trifecta, Exacta, Superfecta, Hi-Five, Daily Double, and Pick 3.

While Vermont doesn’t offer live racing, neighboring states cater to harness and thoroughbred betting. If you’re a fan of quarter horse racing, don’t fret. Online platforms broaden your options, allowing you to bet on these races from the comfort of your home. Despite the restrictions, Vermont still offers ample opportunities for you to engage in legal horse betting.

Other Types of Gambling in Vermont

Discover the ins and outs of Vermont gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

History of Vermont Horse Racing

In 1961, pari mutuel wagering was formally legalized following a public referendum, leading to the opening of Green Mountain Park in 1963. This was the state’s only racetrack, hosting thoroughbred racing, harness racing, and dog racing. However, it closed in 1992 and no other horse race track has opened since.

Despite the repeal of the PASPA: Sports Protection Act in 2018, the Vermont horse racing industry hasn’t seen a resurgence. Today, while betting at licensed Vermont race tracks is legal, there are no active race tracks or off-track betting locations in the state. Your betting options are largely online or in neighboring states.

Vermont Gambling FAQ

Is Vermont horse racing betting legal?

US gambling laws by state differ, but in Vermont, horse racing betting is perfectly legal. However, it’s important to note that while you can legally bet on horse races, there are currently no active Vermont race tracks or off-track betting locations within the state. Therefore, your options for placing a bet are predominantly online or in neighboring states where such facilities exist.

Can I wager on horse racing in other states?

Yes, betting on horse races from other states is legal and available. This is done through simulcast facilities, which allow you to wager on live races happening elsewhere. However, because Vermont doesn’t have any simulcast or off-track betting facilities, you’ll need to travel to nearby states that do offer these services. Always remember to practice responsible gambling and bet within the confines of the law.

What’s the biggest race track in Vermont?

There are currently no active Vermont race tracks. This means that the state doesn’t have a “largest” horse race track. If you’re interested in horse racing, you might need to explore options in neighboring states.

Is online horse racing betting allowed in Vermont?

Yes, you can bet on horse races online in Vermont. The state law doesn’t directly address the legality of advance deposit wagering, which is the type of betting that online platforms use. As it isn’t explicitly illegal, many licensed Vermont horse racing betting sites operate in the state without issue.

How can I bet on Vermont horse racing events?

Your options for betting on horse races in Vermont are limited to licensed online betting sites. Unfortunately, if you’d like to bet on live races or simulcasting, you’ll need to travel to nearby states like Massachusetts, as there are no live Vermont horse racing events. Always ensure that any betting you do is legal and responsible.

What’s the minimum age for betting on horses in Vermont?

In Vermont, you must be at least 18 years old to bet on horse races. This minimum gambling age applies to both online betting and wagering at a physical racetrack.

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