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Fair Grounds Race Course

A historic New Orleans thoroughbred racetrack and racino, operating since 1872 and ranking as one of the oldest racing venues in the United States.

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Fair Grounds Race Course
www.fairgroundsracecourse.com, og_image_www.fairgroundsracecourse.com

What is the Fair Grounds Race Course?

Fair Grounds Race Course is a thoroughbred racetrack and racino in New Orleans, Louisiana, that has been in operation since 1872.

What is it known for?

It is known as one of the nation's oldest racetracks, operating since 1872. It hosts thoroughbred racing from November through March, including the Louisiana Derby, and also operates a slot-machine gaming facility with a sportsbook.

What are the hours of operation?

The race office hours are from 8:00 am through the last post. Main track training hours are 5:30 am to 10:15 am, Monday through Sunday, except Christmas Day.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Fair Grounds Race Course is a premier thoroughbred racetrack and racino located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Established in 1872, it holds the distinction of being one of the nation's oldest racetracks, with different sources citing it as either the second or third oldest in the country. Before it became officially known as the Fair Grounds in 1872, the site served as a multipurpose venue for exhibitions, boxing matches, and baseball games. The facility features a one-mile dirt oval main track and a turf course approximately seven furlongs in length. The distance from the final turn to the finish line is exactly 1,346 feet. For those seeking luxury, the venue offers ultra-modern dining facilities within a glass-enclosed clubhouse, providing a refined atmosphere for watching the races. Beyond horse racing, Fair Grounds operates a slot-machine gaming facility equipped with a sportsbook. To extend its reach across southeast Louisiana, the venue also manages 13 off-track betting parlors that offer video poker games. This blend of traditional sport and modern gaming makes it a unique destination for sports enthusiasts and gamblers alike. Live thoroughbred racing typically occurs from November through March, featuring high-profile events like the Louisiana Derby, a key race on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Additionally, the venue hosts specialized events such as a 15-day Quarter Horse meet, which took place in August and September 2024.

Visitor tips

  • Check the racing calendar for live thoroughbred events between November and March.
  • Visit the glass-enclosed clubhouse for a more comfortable, modern dining experience while watching the races.
  • If you are interested in horse training, the main track is open for training from 5:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. daily, except Christmas Day.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of New Orleans, Fair Grounds Race Course provides a sprawling athletic contrast to the denser urban neighborhoods surrounding it.

Sources

Evidence and links