Wyoming Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in WY

US gambling laws by state vary, but as an enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that the state of Wyoming embraces both live racing and simulcast pari mutuel wagering, allowing you to immerse yourself in the action. In fact, Wyoming’s legal gambling landscape is quite accommodating, recognizing the economic benefits of the sport. We’ll guide you through the ins and outs of betting on horse races at Wyoming race tracks.

Most Popular Wyoming Race Tracks

Wyoming Downs

Address: 10180 Wyoming 89, Evanston, WY 82930
Phone: 307-789-7223

Wyoming Downs is a premier destination for both quarter horse and thoroughbred betting. As you settle into one of the 2,100 seats, you’ll get a view of the impressive 7/8-mile track. The racetrack, owned and operated by Wyoming Downs LLC, offers a blend of live Wyoming racing events and off-track betting.

You can even place your bets online for a seamless experience. Choose from a variety of bets including Win, Place, Show, Exacta, Quinella, and Superfecta, among others. The racing season, from June to August, is packed with exciting events like the WY Downs Spirit & Brew Fest, Freedom Rally, and Kids Triple Crown Stick Horse Races.

Admission is affordable, and they even offer table reservations with perks like complimentary parking, table service, and a race program.

Sweetwater Downs

Address: 3320 Yellowstone Road, Rock Springs, WY 82901
Phone: 307-224-4960

Sweetwater Downs is a popular destination owned by Wyoming Horse Racing LLC. From the comfort of your home, you can participate in the action using their online sports betting platform. This racetrack caters to a variety of betting preferences, including Win, Place, Show, Double Double, Exacta, and Quinella.

The racing season runs from August to September, featuring major horse races such as the Sweetwater TB Futurity, Sweetwater TB Derby, John Schiffer Memorial, and Governor’s Handicap. Not only does Sweetwater Downs offer the chance to gamble on a variety of horse races, but it also provides free parking for an added convenience.

Energy Downs (307 Horse Racing)

Address: 1635 Reata Drive, Gillette, WY 82718
Phone: 307-680-5284

From May to June, this lively racetrack hosts major races like the Memorial Stakes, Energy Downs Stakes, and 307 First Open Futurity. You can join in on the excitement through live horse races or simulcast wagering.

The Energy Downs Foundation is committed to investing in the Wyoming horse racing industry and off-track betting outlets, striving to advance horse breeding in the state and open new markets for pari mutuel betting. It’s not just about the races, but also about investing in the local community. Your involvement in Energy Downs contributes to the growth and prosperity of local Wyoming horse racing, making your experience all the more rewarding.

List of All Wyoming Race Tracks

Discover horse racing at these premier Wyoming race tracks.

Simulcast Wagering in Wyoming

Simulcast wagering is a legal and popular form of betting in Wyoming. From bars to dedicated betting facilities, there are dozens of venues across the state where you can place your bets on live races happening miles away. Check out the below venues for a new opportunity to win.

Popular Horse Races in Wyoming with Dates

Wyoming’s racing calendar is packed with exciting races that you won’t want to miss. This list will guide you through the key races typically held throughout the year, along with the dates they are usually run.

Types of Legal Horse Betting in Wyoming

In Wyoming, you have a plethora of legal horse betting options to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of the straightforward Win, Place, or Show bets, or you’re looking for something more complex like Quinella, Double Double, Exacta, Superfecta, or Trifecta, Wyoming’s betting scene has got you covered.

You can place your bets on a variety of horse types, including Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses. Additionally, you can indulge in a range of horse races, from the fast-paced Quarter Horse racing to the strategic Harness racing and the prestigious Thoroughbred racing. Wyoming horse racing offers something for every enthusiast.

Other Types of Gambling in Wyoming

Explore all there is to know about Wyoming gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

• Wyoming Online Casinos
• Wyoming Online Sportsbooks
• Wyoming Online Poker
• Wyoming No Deposit Bonuses
• Wyoming Casinos
• Wyoming Bingo

History of Wyoming Horse Racing

In 1967, the Wyoming Pari Mutuel Commission was established to oversee racing throughout the state. This was further bolstered by the creation of the Wyoming Breeder Award Fund, designed to encourage the breeding and racing of Wyoming-bred horses. A portion of the daily handle and commission operation costs are allocated to the Wyoming All Breeds Fund and the Commission respectively.

Wyoming statutes allow for a variety of pari mutuel events, including quarter horse, harness, thoroughbred, cutter, chuck wagon, and chariot horse races. Sweetwater Downs held the distinction of being Wyoming’s only live horse racetrack until 2014 when Wyoming Downs reopened after ceasing live races in 2009.

In 2012, Wyoming extended the period that simulcast licenses were renewable from one year to three years and repealed the requirement for simulcast permits to specify an authorized number of days. In 2013, the state approved instant racing or wagering on historic horse races, becoming the third state to permit wagers on past races using a machine with a library of 21,000 past races.

However, instant racing machines, operational between 2003 and 2005, faced a legal dispute in 2006. The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled these machines as illegal gambling devices because the races were not live. Following the decision, the instant racing machines were banned until they were re-approved.

The overturning of the PASPA: Sports Protection Act in 2018 has had significant implications for the Wyoming horse racing industry, paving the way for a resurgence in the sport. Today, Wyoming horse racing continues to evolve, offering exciting opportunities for enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Wyoming Gambling FAQ

Is horse racing legal in Wyoming?

Yes, horse racing betting is legal in Wyoming. You can place bets at live racing events and off-track betting facilities. Additionally, the state allows you to bet on simulcast races, which are broadcast from other locations.

Can I bet on horse races in other states?

Yes, you can bet on horse races that are being held in other states. Wyoming allows for simulcast wagering, which means races from other locations are broadcast live to betting facilities in the state. This allows you to place bets on these races as if you were there in person.

What’s the largest race track in Wyoming?

The largest horse race track in Wyoming is Wyoming Downs in Evanston. This track is the premier location for live horse racing in the state. You’ll find it offers a full schedule of races throughout the summer season. It’s a great place to experience the excitement of horse racing in Wyoming.

Is online horse racing betting legal in Wyoming?

Yes, online horse racing betting is legal in Wyoming. As a resident, you have the freedom to place wagers on horse races via online platforms. This gives you the flexibility to bet on races from the comfort of your own home or anywhere you have internet access. Always remember to practice responsible gambling and bet within legal guidelines.

How can I bet on Wyoming horse racing events?

In Wyoming, you have several options for horse racing betting. You can place bets in person at local Wyoming race tracks during live races. Another option is simulcast betting, where you can wager on races happening in other locations that are broadcast live to betting facilities in Wyoming. Additionally, online wagering is available, allowing you to bet on horse races from the comfort of your own home.

What’s the minimum age to bet on horse races in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, the minimum age to bet on horse races is 18 years old. This means you must be at least 18 to legally place a wager on horse racing, whether in-person at a racetrack, at a simulcast facility, or online. Always ensure you meet this minimum gambling age before attempting to place a bet.