Horse racing has long been a favorite pastime for many. Watching the horses go around the track is exciting, but placing your bets on which one is going to make it to the finish line first can also provide a rush.
With a couple of the tracks known for horse racing, there’s a rich history of horse racing for the area. Horse racing is regulated through the state and county areas for each of the tracks.
The closest thing people in Florida can gamble on is dog and horse-racing and the sport of jai alai which has been popular and legal to bet on in the state since the 1960s. The only option sports gamblers have to place wagers on games is to use one of several offshore options, which are currently illegal. Florida horse racing is available to bettors through a few different types of venues. You have several racetracks sprinkled throughout the state at which you can participate in live horse race betting at a physical location. These tracks also often offer simulcast events that take place outside of Florida to place wagers on as well.
When in Florida for the horse racing, many of the race tracks provide a casino, dining options, and a resort so you can plan your stay within one of them.
Enjoy all that horse racing in Florida has to offer when you plan a stay. Make sure to get all the horse racing from the area and more with these fine horse racing tracks offered. Florida isn’t the only home to many horse races. But be sure to stop in sunny Florida for a little bit of excitement. As well as a wide assortment of other activities that takes place throughout this state.
Horse Racing History in Florida
In the 1920’s, horse racing started in the state and continued to hit the ground running. With many tracks placed throughout Florida, many people came out to see and bet on the horse races for the area. Horse racing in the past was one of the biggest gaming attractions of the area. This made horse racing tracks one of the most loved and used industries. Florida was not the first to have tracks built, but was one of the close followers after.
Once horse racing became illegal in many areas, a lot of the tracks did not perform so well. Many closed and/or went bankrupt. Currently, the oldest track that’s still used is the Hialeah Park Racetrack. This is where thousands of people continue to flock during the racing months.
Both harness racing and thoroughbred racing is popular throughout the state. Depending on the track visited, you can watch either one of them. Handicap racing is also provided at times. This depends on the outcome of the horses that sign up for the events. Each venue has something different to provide to the guest. Whether it’s a different type of horse racing or even added amenities on the venue.
Each of the tracks has horses that are new, as well as well-known to the horse racing industry. For years, they’ve welcomed many of the big names in horse racing. They continue to provide the necessary improvements. And also wants and needs for the guests that continue to show patriotism to their race tracks.
Many of the tracks opened in the past 30 years, while others have been around for 100+. Each one offers something different than the next. Plan your time in the area with one of the many horse tracks provided in the state of Florida.
1 – Tampa Bay Downs
Tampa Bay is generally where you’re able to find a lot of the nightlife, casinos, and races happening. Many people visit this area for that purpose. Tampa Bay Downs opened in 1926 and have ever since been running their horse racing track. Racing thoroughbred horses on the track, they take bets on which horse is going to make it to the finish line.
Tampa Bay is big on the casino that they provide. But behind the casino there is also a horse racing track for visitors to enjoy. The casino and horse racing tracks are also right next to the golf practice area. The poker room is a separate area inside the casino. This provides visitors with a way to play poker separately from other table games and slots.
Tampa Bay provides a lot to the visitor in the area. With many upscale hotels, beaches, nightlife, casinos and more; there’s always something for visitors to do. Enjoy the horse races during your stay, but take advantage of all that Tampa Bay has to offer.
2 – Gulf Stream Park Racing & Casino
Gulf Stream is a beautiful place to visit. They have a Racing and Casino building welcoming visitors. It provides a great way to spend some time while in the area. Approved by the county, this is one of the largest casino and race tracks throughout all Florida. They provide horse racing December through October.
While visiting or living in the area, many come out to see the races. But they can also enjoy all that the casino area has to provide. It’s thought of as one of the most important venues that you can visit for horse racing in America. Thoroughbred horse racing is at the top of the list at this venue. Visitors can buy tickets and check race times right online. This is a great way to check before heading out to the races. You can also buy tickets for the shows before they all become sold out.
Gulf Stream Park & Racing tends to get busiest in the tourist months. I recommend planning a stay during the other months of the year, though it’s not necessary. Plenty of things can are available in the immediate area outside of the park for visitors to enjoy.
3 – Florida Quarter Horse Racing
This quarter horse racing track caters to quarter horses looking to make it to the finish line. With many of the horses that race raised in the area, you can come and meet the horses before the races. This way, you can check their stats and find out which one can make it to the end. Place your bets right inside the venue and work to grab the biggest purse.
The horsemen have trained to provide the horses with the right mindset to make it around the course. Traveling race horses come to the area to try their luck against some of the competing horses from the area. The horsemen meet with the visitors to provide information on training and horses. This is a bit different than the other race tracks. But still provides the excitement of horse racing within the track.
Quarter horse racing in this area is on a dirt track and looks more like a cowboy event than anything. This is something that a lot of horse racing enthusiasts might enjoy. Especially while in the area and looking for a different type of horse racing to watch. You can place bets on the best horse and horse race man going around the track.
4 – Hialeah Park
Hialeah Park is a favorite outdoor and activity area for those living in the area. It is also one of the most known places for horse racing throughout the country. It is a historic area for those that want to race and watch races. With 40 square blocks of space, the track is also one of the largest in Florida. You can watch the races right online, while also being able to place your bets. Find out which horses are making it to the top when you check stats and watch past races that they’ve competed in.
They hold events and weddings in their venue. They also have a full service live casino that you can visit while waiting for the races. You can dine in one of the six different restaurants right on the grounds. Live entertainment is provided for those that want to come out to see a concert or other show. With plenty for everyone to do while visiting Hialeah Park, it is an ideal place to spend your time.
This is a historic area for horse racing. Visitors can look around to get a feel for the history behind the track and casino. Many of the older pictures are on display for those interested in learning more about horse racing.
5 – Pompano Park
Pompano Park is another place where casino, fine dining, racing and fun come together in one area. With a standard harness racing track, you can come out to watch all the excitement. Additionally, there is more provided to guests that come out to watch the races. With a full casino, hotel and resort, as well as dining options, you can make a whole vacation out of Pompano Park. They’ve been around for years and continue to provide the races that visitors like to see.
The horse racing schedule is online, allowing you to plan your stay. Many of the horses that race on the track live in the state. But some travel from neighboring states to try their luck in the races. You can place your bet on the winning horses of the area or try your luck on one of the new ones coming into town. Enjoy all the racing that comes with Pompano Park. You can check the website for reservations, events, tickets and more. If you’re traveling to the area, this makes it a bit easier to grab the activities that you want to enjoy ahead of time.
Pompano Park is a hidden gem in Florida for horse racing. A lot of visitors enjoy visiting this venue for the casino that they provide. One of the largest in Florida, the track is right on the premises. This makes it easy to find something different than slots. You can buy tickets for the races right inside the casino, as well.
Conclusion
Finding a horse race track for the area shouldn’t have to be hard. With the help of this list, you can plan a stay in one of the areas listed. This provides you with a way to enjoy not only Florida, but also the race tracks that have been around for some time.
When looking for race tracks, it’s important to find out what each one of them provides. Knowing what’s inside them can ensure that you’re happy with the trip that you plan on taking. This way you don’t need to worry about finding extra activities for the area. also, beaches are always nearby.
Horse racing is exciting. It can provide anyone with a way to spend a little time on something that’s enjoyable. Watch as the horse’s race around the tracks. And put your bets down to try and win some money and enjoy all that the area has to provide. Horse racing is more than a pastime; it’s also a competitive, exciting sport.
Florida horse racing is available to bettors through a few different types of venues. You have several racetracks sprinkled throughout the state at which you can participate in live horse race betting at a physical location. These tracks also often offer simulcast events that take place outside of Florida to place wagers on as well. In addition, there are several legally licensed online racebooks which allow bets placed from Florida and the USA in general. This guide will provide you with insight into both online and offline options, as well as the legal status of horse race betting in the Sunshine State. Some of the Florida race tracks even support Florida poker betting and casino gambling.
Is Betting on Horses Legal in Florida?
Yes, there are several opportunities to wager on your favorite race or horse. A little further down on this page we have provided a short overview of popular brick and mortar race tracks in the state. Florida is said to be one of the equestrian capitals in the US horse race and show industries, and has a great deal of resources to support the industry and its participants. It is a venue that is highly respected by residents and travelers to the Sunshine State.
Is Online Horse Betting Legal in Florida?
Operating an online racebook within the state of Florida is not legal at this time. There are however no federal or state laws which prohibit FL bettors from engaging in online wagering at legally licensed and regulated online racebooks which are located outside of the USA. We have provided a refined listing of the leading online racebook brands. Each of them has been extensively evaluated by our team of review specialists, using our intense review process. We have effectively eliminated any low quality brands and revealed the most reputable and reliable options for Florida bettors.
Florida Online Horse Betting Sites (Top Sites To Bet On Horses)
| Racebook Name/Link | New Players Promotion | Category | USA Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bovada Racebook | 50% Up To $250 Free and 5% Rebate | Racebook | Yes |
| BetOnline Racebook | $25 Risk Free Bet and 7% Rebate | Racebook | Yes |
| Sportsbetting.ag Racebook | $25 Risk Free Bet and 7% Rebate | Racebook | Yes |
| Bookmaker Racebook | 15% Up To $2500 and 8% Rebate | Racebook | Yes |
Land Based Horse Race Tracks in Florida
Hialeah Park
Horse racing in Florida wears many faces. Harness and thoroughbred races are offered live and through simulcast at five different venues throughout the Sunshine State, with the storied Hialeah Park racetrack In Miami to reopen for quarter horse racing in December of 2012. Hialeah was first built in 1922 as the first Greyhound pari-mutuel track, and two years later the Miami Jockey Club was established, with a horse racing track and grandstand built next to the greyhound dog track. One of the oldest horse racing tracks in the US, Hialeah was declared a United States National Landmark in 1988.
Horse Race Betting Guide
Pompano Park Racing, Casino and Poker
Less than an hour north of Hialeah and also on the Atlantic coast you will find Pompano Park and poker, a standard-bred harness racing track. Offering one of the unique geographical advantages of horse racing in Florida, when the snow and ice of winter offer less than ideal racing conditions in the northern part of the US, horsemen head down to Pompano to what is affectionately referred to in the horse racing community as 'The Winter Home of Harness Racing'. The track also offers slot machine gambling and live poker games, officially qualifying as a racino (race track/casino). Pompano Park offers live horse racing as well as simulcasting both thoroughbred and harness horse races from Canada and the United States, offering horse wagering opportunities 363 days per year. Florida Casino lovers can enjoy over 1,500 slot machines, 38 live-action poker tables and 6 restaurants.
Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino
Horse Racing Betting In Florida
In the central part of the state on the gulf beach-side, horse racing in Florida is offered at the Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino at Hallendale Beach which opened in 1939. Offering live racing from December through April, the track is one of the most important in America, hosting some of the richest races of the year. With an incredible 15 restaurants and two-story casino, the racino at Gulfstream Park is open 365 days a year, with access to 850 slot machines, poker tables and electronic table games. Also located in Hallendale is the Mardi Gras Racetrack and Gaming Center, offering simulcast access to thoroughbred and harness racing. The racino facility offers a poker room, slots and electronic table games as well.
Tampa Bay Downs
Horse Betting Age Florida
Also on the Gulf Coast is the important Tampa Bay Downs thoroughbred horse track. The track opened in 1926 as Tampa Downs, and has also been named Sunshine Park and Florida Downs. Famous as the only thoroughbred racetrack on the west coast of Florida, 2011 saw the facility climb into the hierarchy of North American racetracks. Visitors can also work on their swing at the Downs Golf Practice Facility, as well as play a couple hands of cards at The Silks Poker Room. The Calder Race Course and Casino delivers horse racing in Florida in the thoroughbred form, offering both live and simulcast wagering. Offering a smoke-free casino experience, horse racing is augmented by more than 1,200 slot machines and a poker room.
Whether in the form of harness, thoroughbred or quarter horses, horse racing in Florida takes on many forms. Offered from Miami in the southeastern part of the state to Tampa on the West Coast, the six current horse racing venues offering live and simulcast wagering are always just a short trip away. The beautiful Florida sunshine and beach atmosphere at many venues combine for a perfect day at the races, and all locations offer some combination of poker, slots and table games for your Las Vegas style casino enjoyment as well. You can learn more about the legal landscape in Florida surrounding gambling in our section dedicated to Florida betting laws.
Check out our Florida online sports betting section if your a sports enthusiast who enjoys sweating a small bet on the games. We have also recently added a Florida lottery guide to assist players from inside and outside the state of Florida with playing the FL Lotto games online.