Race Casino

Overview of Race Casinos

Race casinos, or racinos, seamlessly integrate horse racing with casino gaming, inviting a diverse crowd of enthusiasts to enjoy both thrilling sports and gambling under one roof.

Race casinos, also called racinos, are venues that combine traditional casino gaming with horse racing, offering a unique blend of gambling and sporting entertainment that appeals to both casino players and horse racing enthusiasts. Their popularity has grown as they integrate slot machines, table games, and sports betting alongside live or simulcast horse races, creating diverse entertainment options under one roof.

History and Evolution

Race casinos trace their roots to horse racing tracks in the 1800s, particularly in regions like Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky, where horse racing was a prominent industry. The combination of casino gambling and horse racing betting evolved significantly in the late 20th century. In the U.S., the term "racino" emerged to describe these hybrids. Racinos began growing in number as states legalized casino gambling at race tracks to boost revenues and revive declining horse racing handles. For example, from 1995 to 1999, tracks in "racino states" saw a 7% increase in live horse race betting handle, whereas non-racino states saw a 38% decline. Early adopters include states like Delaware (1994), Louisiana, New Mexico (1997), New York (2001), Florida, Pennsylvania (2004), and Ohio (2011), with more states following recently.

Popular Race Casinos

Notable U.S. race casinos include Gulfstream Park and Hialeah Park Casino in Florida — venues famed for their combination of horse racing events and casino gaming, contributing major revenue and tourism. Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack is currently the top commercial casino outside Nevada, reflecting significant racino success.

Appeal of Race Casinos

Race casinos attract a broad audience by offering a variety of games beyond horse racing, including slots and table games, making them destinations for gamblers and sports fans alike. They offer the excitement of betting on live horse races and a full casino experience in a single venue, which is unique compared to standalone casinos or race tracks.

• Unique blend of horse racing and casino gaming.
• Increasingly popular across various states.
• Attracts both gamblers and sports enthusiasts.
• Major revenue and tourism contributors.
• Home to exciting slot machines and table games.