New York State is THE place for horse lovers. It has some of the best horse racing and most historic race tracks in the world. Or, if you prefer the world of horse shows, you can experience world class horse jumping and hunt competitions. So what are some of the must see New York horse racing tracks and shows?
In terms of horse racing, New York has incredible options for both thoroughbred and harness racing. The Spring and Summer months feature the biggest events, but New York has race tracks that combine to deliver a thrilling experience year-round.
Home to 12 active horse tracks, New York has hosted many legendary racehorses–such as Secretariat when he captured the triple crown in Belmont in 1973.
With gorgeous seasonal temperatures and great local vacation home accommodations, New York state draws horse racing fans from around the world. Plus, regardless of the region you choose, all New York race track locations have varied and interesting local attractions.
Must See New York Horse Racing Tracks and Horse Shows
The Big Three
Thoroughbred racing is a prime attraction in New York State. The biggest New York thoroughbred races regularly draw over 50,000 fans each. New York’s three largest thoroughbred tracks are Aqueduct, Belmont Park and Saratoga. Together they provide over 200 days of thoroughbred racing each year.
All are great places to visit, host notable races, and offer unique and affordable New York vacation rental accommodations.
Aqueduct Racetrack: Located in Queens, New York, Aqueduct is the only facility of its kind located within the boundaries of New York City. It has been in operation since 1894. Running dates span late October through late April/early May, so this is your choice for winter racing.
Of special note is the Wood Memorial Stakes hosted each April. The Wood Memorial Stakes is one of the major prep races leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Aqueduct also boasts the only casino located in the five boroughs of NYC. A perfect stop to complement your day at the track.
Whether you are looking for a view of the Manhattan skyline, or something close to the subway, a NYC vacation rental delivers.
Belmont Park: Belmont Park is located on Long Island, New York and has been providing horse racing action for more than a century. The Belmont Stakes are the third leg of the triple crown championship. Who can forget when our last triple crown champion, American Pharaoh, galloped to victory at Belmont in 2015? Belmont Park’s racing season generally runs from late April through mid-July. Visit Belmont Park, New York if you want to walk in the footsteps of horse racing legends.
Long Island vacation rentals feature amazing beachfront homes and spectacular bay views as well as cozy cottages.
Insider Tip: Traffic can be overwhelming for the big stakes races. Choose to stay within an easy drive of the Long Island Rail Road and take the LIRR directly to the raceway. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance!
Saratoga Race Track: The Saratoga Race Track is in the historic city of Saratoga Springs, NY. Saratoga is nestled halfway between Lake George, New York, with stunning Adirondack views, and Albany, the state capital, making it a great place to visit.
The Saratoga Race Track was opened in 1863. It is home to the oldest major thoroughbred horse race in the country– the Travers Stakes. With a motto of “Health, History, and Horses”, it’s no wonder the City population swells three times its normal size each summer. Saratoga is the home away from home to 50,000 guests throughout the 6-week meet each year. Track season here runs from late July through early September.
Insider tip: Saratoga Springs is known for its mineral springs. There are 21 public mineral springsin the City and each has its own distinct flavor. Located throughout the city, you can easily make a day of visiting and sampling them all. But, if you love all things horses, you won’t want to miss the sights and sounds of the Fasig-Tipton Horse Auctions.
The most popular Saratoga Sales take place each August. This year’s biggest sales are slated for August 6-7 and 11-12. Arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot. Bidding is fierce, and the crowd goes wild when prized yearlings near or even top the $1 million mark.
Find great New York accommodations for your visit to these high stakes races. Amenities include lake front cabins, mountain views, and beautiful farmhouses.
Racinos
A Racino offers the thrilling combination of a thoroughbred or harness horse racing track and a connected casino. New York state has plenty to offer with 9 Racino locations.
When you visit a Racino, the fun never ends. You’ll have access to hoof pounding harness races as well as features like electronic gaming, simulcasts, restaurants, night clubs, and more. You’ll want to consider a comfortable vacation rental for your stay. Options exist for everything from “tiny houses” to lakeside cabins to quaint farmhouses.
Aquaduct Racetrack: Detailed above, Aquaduct also offers an attached casino.
Batavia Downs: Located in the western part of New York State between Rochester and Buffalo, Batavia Downs features live harness racing from July – September. Visitors may choose from matinee, twilight, and night racing events.
Buffalo Raceway: Buffalo Raceway feature live harness racing from January – July.
Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack: Located in Farmington, NY near the beautiful Finger Lakes. The Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack offerslive thoroughbred horse racing from April- December. This venue hosts more than 160 live horse racing days per year.
Monticello Raceway: Located in the breathtaking Catskills, the racetrack at Monticello Casino and Raceway is nicknamed ‘The Mighty M.’ Monticello features live racing during the afternoons year-round.
Saratoga Race Course: The Saratoga Race Course offers live harness racing from February – December.
Tioga Downs: Located in Nichols, NY, Tioga Downs features live harness racing on a 5/8-mile course. Tioga’s live harness races run from May-September
Vernon Downs Race Track: Located in central New York, Vernon Downs features live harness racing from April – November.
Yonkers Raceway: Yonkers Raceway features at ½ mile harness track and year-round live racing.
Historic Harness Track
Goshen Historic Track: The Goshen Historic Track is the world’s oldest active harness track. Opened in 1838, Goshen features a half mile track and runs from June through early July. Visiting here, you will be attending one of only two sporting arenas in America that are designated as registered historic landmarks. (Churchill Downs is the other).
Notable Horse Shows
If you are more equestrian than race fan, New York has a lot to offer. The most notable Horse Show events take place in Saugerties, NY. Hits-on-the-Hudson, located in the breathtaking Catskills, New York, features eight weeks of Horse Shows.
Throughout the meet, hunters and jumpers compete, vying for a chance to take home the big prize at the HITS Championship in September. Catskill vacation rentals are varied and feature unique options you’ll want to check out.
Insider Tip: Try Miss Lucy’s Kitchen for delicious locally sourced comfort food. Or for a unique picnicking destination,Opus40 is not to be missed. Opus40 is an amazing 6-1/2 acre sculpture that was build on an abandoned quarry. It offers hours of exploration and fun.
Whatever your location choice as a horse fan, be sure to book your vacation rentals in advance. Places book fast, especially for the big meets. Secure and book your rental now.