Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is situated in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It’s close to major highways like Interstate 30, which serves as a key transportation hub for the region. The track’s location near popular tourist attractions and entertainment venues makes it an accessible and convenient destination for locals and visitors alike. Oaklawn’s central position allows it to draw a diverse audience from both Arkansas and neighboring states, contributing to its success and popularity in the horse racing industry.
History of Oaklawn Racing and Gaming
Nestled in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Oaklawn Racing and Gaming has a rich and storied history that dates back to the late 19th century.
1904: The Hot Springs Racing Association was formed, and construction began on a new racetrack on the outskirts of the city.
1905: Oaklawn Park, as it was then known, opened its doors to the public for its inaugural racing season. The track quickly gained a reputation for its challenging 1 1/16-mile dirt oval and world-class racing.
1917-1920: Racing at Oaklawn was suspended during World War I but resumed in 1921.
1942-1945: Racing was again suspended during World War II, but Oaklawn reopened in 1946 and continued to thrive in the post-war era.
1973: Arkansas voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing pari-mutuel betting on horse races. This significant development helped to boost attendance and revenue at Oaklawn.
1984: The Hot Springs Racing Association purchased Oaklawn and invested heavily in renovations and modernization.
1996: Oaklawn expanded its offerings by opening the Oaklawn Casino Resort, a state-of-the-art gaming facility adjacent to the racetrack.
2018: Oaklawn underwent another major expansion, adding a new luxury hotel, spa, and convention center.
Today, Oaklawn Racing and Gaming is a premier entertainment destination in Arkansas
The track hosts live thoroughbred racing from January through April and again from September through November. The casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker.
Oaklawn also offers a variety of dining options, including fine dining, casual dining, and quick service restaurants.
Here is a table summarizing the key milestones in Oaklawn’s history:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1904 | Hot Springs Racing Association formed |
| 1905 | Oaklawn Park opens |
| 1917-1920 | Racing suspended during World War I |
| 1942-1945 | Racing suspended during World War II |
| 1973 | Arkansas voters approve pari-mutuel betting |
| 1984 | Hot Springs Racing Association purchases Oaklawn |
| 1996 | Oaklawn Casino Resort opens |
| 2018 | Oaklawn undergoes major expansion |
Directions to Oaklawn Track
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains. It’s easily accessible by car, plane, or bus.
By Car
- From Little Rock, Arkansas: Take Interstate 40 west to Exit 95 (Hot Springs). Turn left onto Albert Pike Road. Oaklawn is located on your left.
- From Memphis, Tennessee: Take Interstate 40 east to Exit 117 (Hot Springs). Turn right onto Central Avenue. Turn left onto Albert Pike Road. Oaklawn is located on your left.
- From Shreveport, Louisiana: Take Interstate 20 east to Exit 33 (Malvern). Turn left onto Highway 270. Take Highway 270 north to Hot Springs. Turn left onto Albert Pike Road. Oaklawn is located on your left.
By Plane
The closest airport to Oaklawn is Hot Springs Memorial Field (HSP). The airport is located just 5 miles from Oaklawn and offers flights from major cities such as Dallas, Memphis, and St. Louis.
By Bus
- Greyhound provides daily bus service to Hot Springs from major cities such as Dallas, Memphis, and St. Louis.
- The Oaklawn Shuttle provides daily shuttle service from Little Rock to Oaklawn.
Parking
Oaklawn offers free parking for guests. There are several parking lots located around the track.
| Parking Lot | Capacity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| East Lot | 1,500 | On Albert Pike Road, east of the track |
| West Lot | 1,000 | On Albert Pike Road, west of the track |
| North Lot | 500 | On Central Avenue, north of the track |
| VIP Lot | 200 | On Albert Pike Road, adjacent to the VIP entrance |
Where Is Oaklawn Horse Racing Track?
The Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It is one of the most popular horse racing tracks in the United States. The track opened in 1904 and has been hosting races ever since. Oaklawn is known for its beautiful scenery and its friendly atmosphere.
Major Events and Races at Oaklawn
- Arkansas Derby: The Arkansas Derby is a Grade 1 stakes race for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds. It is held annually in April and is one of the most prestigious races in the United States.
- Rebel Stakes: The Rebel Stakes is a Grade 2 stakes race for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds. It is held annually in February and is a prep race for the Arkansas Derby.
- Oaklawn Handicap: The Oaklawn Handicap is a Grade 2 stakes race for older Thoroughbreds. It is held annually in March and is one of the most popular races at Oaklawn.
- Razorback Handicap: The Razorback Handicap is a Grade 3 stakes race for older Thoroughbreds. It is held annually in January and is a prep race for the Oaklawn Handicap.
| Race | Grade | Age | Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Derby | 1 | 3 | April |
| Rebel Stakes | 2 | 3 | February |
| Oaklawn Handicap | 2 | Older | March |
| Razorback Handicap | 3 | Older | January |
Amenities and Facilities at Oaklawn
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offers a wide range of amenities and facilities to enhance your racing experience.
- Reserved seating
- Dining options, including the trackside Terrace Dining Room and the upscale Eclipse Room
- Live music and entertainment
- Children’s play area
- Free Wi-Fi
- Betting kiosks and machines
The casino at Oaklawn offers a variety of gaming options, including:
- Slot machines
- Table games
- Poker room
- Sportsbook
The resort also features a number of amenities, including:
- Hotel with 200 rooms
- Spa and salon
- Fitness center
- Swimming pool
- Business center
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Reserved seating | Reserved seating is available in the grandstand and clubhouse. |
| Dining options | Oaklawn offers a variety of dining options, including the Terrace Dining Room, the Eclipse Room, and the Paddock Grill. |
| Live music and entertainment | Live music and entertainment is offered at Oaklawn throughout the racing season. |
| Children’s play area | A supervised children’s play area is available on the second floor of the grandstand. |
| Free Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the track and casino. |
| Betting kiosks and machines | Betting kiosks and machines are located throughout the track and casino. |
Well, there you have it folks! Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is located in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas. If you’re ever in the area during racing season, be sure to drop by and catch some live thoroughbred racing action. And even if you’re not a fan of horse racing, the casino and resort offer plenty of other fun things to do. So, thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!