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Meadowlands Racetrack

4.3
·1k reviews·East Rutherford, United States

Experience the thrill of harness racing at the modern Meadowlands Racetrack, featuring stunning NYC skyline views and diverse events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fri & Sat evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Starten af Hambletonian 2022

Meadowlands Racetrack

Best Time

Fri & Sat evenings

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the thrill of harness racing at the modern Meadowlands Racetrack, featuring stunning NYC skyline views and diverse events.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A fantastic, modern venue with great energy and unbeatable views of the NYC skyline!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check the Racing Calendar

Plan your visit around special events like the Hambletonian for a truly memorable experience.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harness Racing Thrills

Harness Racing Thrills

Experience the thunder of hooves and the excitement of harness racing under the lights. A true spectacle for all ages.

TikTokInstagram
Rooftop Terrace Views

Rooftop Terrace Views

Enjoy panoramic views of the racetrack and the iconic NYC skyline. Perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Reddit
Special Event Spectacles

Special Event Spectacles

From the prestigious Hambletonian to quirky Wiener Dog Derbies, these events offer unique entertainment beyond the regular races.

Instagram+2
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Track

Beat the crowds and catch the best atmosphere by arriving for evening races, especially on weekends. Check the Meadowlands racing calendar for special events like the Hambletonian, which draw larger crowds but offer a unique spectacle. Instagram+1

Beyond the Betting Window

While betting is central, Meadowlands offers more. Enjoy the modern venue, rooftop views of the NYC skyline, and family-friendly events like the Wiener Dog Derby. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Fri & Sat evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique entertainment
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Harness Racing from the Meadowlands Racetrack- for those New Yorkers missed tee-shirt time down the shore tonight. #horseracing #harnessracing #meadowlands
bleacherbrothers
121 likes • 6.6K views

🎯 Check the Racing Calendar

Plan your visit around special events like the Hambletonian for a truly memorable experience. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

Riding a Horserace at the Meadowlands Racetrack. #horseracing #jockeycamera #thoroughbreds #jockey #racehorses #meadowlandsracetrack #sports #horses
moyaridesraces
26.1K likes • 426.7K views
Huge shoutout @meadowlandsracetrack for such an incredible day !!!! We had an amazing time at the Pace Race. August 2nd is the Hambletonian !! You guys don’t want to miss it. Also a huge shout out to kayla. You made our day. We love you!!!! #meadowlandsracetrack #dad #dadsoftiktok #horseracing #horse @kaylamarie_o @iamdjalx
camrynbarteck
96 likes • 4.2K views

📱 Download the App

Look for official apps for race schedules, betting info, and venue maps. Reddit

💰 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy a night out without breaking the bank; admission and parking are often free. Reddit

Riding a Horse Race at the meadowlands racetrack. #horseracing #jockey #racehorses #thoroughbreds #athlete #horseriding #horsesofinstagram #meadowlandsracetrack #jockeycam
moyaridesraces
1.1K likes • 15.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check the Racing Calendar

Plan your visit around special events like the Hambletonian for a truly memorable experience. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

📱 Download the App

Look for official apps for race schedules, betting info, and venue maps. Reddit

💰 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy a night out without breaking the bank; admission and parking are often free. Reddit

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From casual bites to themed food festivals, there's something for every palate. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Meadowlands Racetrack for its modern, clean venue, electric atmosphere, and fantastic views of the NYC skyline from the rooftop terrace. The appeal of free admission and parking makes it an accessible and enjoyable night out for many. However, some note inconsistent employee attitudes and average food quality.

"★★★★★ A fantastic, modern venue with great energy! 🤩
My friends and I had a phenomenal time at the Meadowlands Racetrack last weekend. We weren't sure what to expect from a racetrack, but the new grandstand is seriously impressive. It's clean, modern, and has a great layout that never feels overly crowded. ✨
The atmosphere was electric! ⚡ Even if you aren't big into harness racing, the energy is infectious. We loved hanging out on the rooftop terrace; the views of the track and the NYC skyline are unbeatable. 🏙️
We grabbed some food from the casual dining options, and while it was standard stadium fare, it hit the spot. The best part? Free admission and free parking! 🚗 It makes for a very accessible and fun night out that won't break the bank.
Whether you're into betting or just looking for a unique, exciting place to spend an evening, the Meadowlands is a great call. We will definitely be back for another event! 🏇🎉
#MeadowlandsRacetrack #PlayMeadowlands #NJNightOut #HarnessRacing #NYCViews #FunNightOut #GardenState"

Jim Farrell

"Cool place to go with friends. Something to do. Some employees are nice and others are just not happy. Food was okay, nothing spectacular. Bathrooms were clean."

Lee Stat

"Horse racing can be a very good time and the Meadowlands race track can provide that! I've been there a handful of times for live racing and in terms of driving there, parking, and entering there has never been congestion. If you do go for one of their event like the hambletonian except some lines and wait. The track itself, seating and the venue is awesome! You can make it a great time for family, friends or kids. Just know that there will be an environment there of habitual betters and people who do off track betting. There is a subculture for that. Also the fan duel bar that is within the track house is not much to rave about. Considering all of this it's Def a place to visit and check off the list."

Michael Quijano

What People Like

Modern, clean venue
Energetic atmosphere
NYC skyline views

What People Dislike

Inconsistent staff attitude
Average food quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Meadowlands Racetrack is conveniently located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. It's accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Reddit Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules or ride-sharing services for the most up-to-date information. It's also close to MetLife Stadium, so if you're attending an event there, you'll find it in the same complex. Instagram

Yes, parking at Meadowlands Racetrack is generally free, making it an accessible option for visitors. Reddit However, during major events like the Hambletonian or concerts at MetLife Stadium, parking can become congested, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for getting to and from Meadowlands Racetrack. There are usually designated pick-up and drop-off zones. Reddit

From New York City, driving or using a ride-sharing service are common methods. Some attendees also opt for public transport to nearby areas and then a short taxi or ride-share to the track. Instagram

Yes, the Meadowlands area offers a variety of hotels and resorts, making it a convenient base for visitors attending events at the racetrack or nearby MetLife Stadium. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, admission to Meadowlands Racetrack is free, especially for regular live racing days. Reddit However, for special events like festivals or concerts, separate tickets may be required. Always check the official Meadowlands Racetrack website or their social media for specific event details. Instagram

The operating hours for Meadowlands Racetrack vary depending on the day and whether there are live races or special events. Live racing typically starts in the evening. It's best to consult the official Meadowlands racing calendar for the most accurate schedule. Instagram+1

Yes, betting on horse races is a primary activity at Meadowlands Racetrack. You can place wagers at various windows throughout the venue, and they also offer sports betting through FanDuel. InstagramReddit

You must be 18 years or older to wager on horse racing and 21 years or older to wager on sports betting. Instagram

While admission is often free, keep an eye out for special promotions or package deals, especially for larger events. Following their social media can alert you to these opportunities. Reddit

🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience

Meadowlands Racetrack primarily features harness racing (also known as standardbred racing), where drivers pull sulkies. They also host occasional thoroughbred racing events. TikTokInstagram+1

The atmosphere is often described as energetic and electric, especially during evening races and special events. Reddit It's a place with a vibrant subculture of bettors and racing enthusiasts, but also offers a fun night out for those just looking for entertainment. Reddit

Yes, the modern grandstand offers excellent views of the track. The rooftop terrace is particularly popular for its sweeping vistas of the track and the New York City skyline. Reddit

Meadowlands Racetrack hosts a variety of events, including food festivals, concerts, and unique spectacles like the Wiener Dog Derby. They also have a FanDuel Sportsbook for sports betting. Instagram+3

Yes, Meadowlands Racetrack can be family-friendly, especially during special events that cater to all ages, such as festivals with face painting and entertainment. Instagram However, be mindful of the betting environment. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Meadowlands Racetrack offers a range of dining options, from casual concessions serving stadium fare to more specialized food events like BBQ competitions and seafood festivals. Instagram+1 Some reviews mention specific dishes like fettuccine with chicken being quite good. Reddit

Yes, there are dining facilities within the Meadowlands Racetrack complex. These range from quick-service counters to sit-down areas, including the FanDuel bar. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most venues with diverse food offerings will have some vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the current food vendors or ask at the concession stands. Instagram+1

Food prices are generally comparable to other entertainment venues, with some reviewers noting it as 'standard stadium fare.' Reddit Special food festivals might have unique pricing structures. Instagram

Yes, there are bars available, including the FanDuel bar within the sportsbook area, where you can enjoy drinks while watching races or sports. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rooftop terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the racetrack and the New York City skyline, making it a prime spot for photography. Reddit The track itself, especially during a race, provides dynamic action shots. TikTokInstagram

Generally, personal photography and videography for non-commercial use are allowed. However, always be mindful of other guests and avoid obstructing views or using flash photography during races if it might disturb the horses or participants. TikTokInstagram

Action shots of the horses racing, candid moments of the crowd's excitement, and scenic views from the rooftop terrace are popular subjects. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Professional photography or videography for commercial purposes usually requires prior authorization. It's best to contact the venue directly if you plan on conducting a professional shoot. Instagram

Evening races offer dramatic lighting, especially with the track lights. Sunset can also provide beautiful backdrops for photos from the rooftop terrace. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Meadowlands Racetrack can be a fun outing for families, especially during its special events. Look for family-friendly festivals and unique races like the Wiener Dog Derby, which offer entertainment beyond the main racing card. Instagram+1 While the betting environment is present, many areas offer a good view of the track and the excitement of the races, which can captivate younger audiences. Reddit Consider visiting during daytime events or earlier in the evening to maximize the family experience. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, Meadowlands Racetrack is a great option as admission and parking are often free. Reddit This significantly reduces the cost of a night out. While you can spend money on food and betting, you can also enjoy the atmosphere and the races without placing any wagers. Reddit Pack snacks or plan to enjoy the more affordable concession stands to keep costs down further.

🌃 Couples and Groups

Meadowlands Racetrack offers a lively and engaging atmosphere perfect for couples or groups of friends looking for a unique night out. Enjoy the thrill of the races, grab drinks at the bar, and take in the stunning views from the rooftop terrace. Reddit The combination of excitement, good views, and diverse food options makes it a versatile destination for a fun evening. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Harness Racing

Meadowlands Racetrack is renowned for its harness racing, a thrilling sport where drivers guide lightweight, two-wheeled carts called sulkies, pulled by powerful standardbred horses. Unlike thoroughbred racing, where riders are on the horses' backs, harness racing focuses on the horse's gait and the driver's skill in pacing. The distinctive sound of hooves hitting the track and the strategic maneuvering of drivers create an electrifying atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Visitors can experience this excitement firsthand during live racing events. The Meadowlands track is known for its modern facilities and fast track conditions, making it a premier venue for this sport. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a curious newcomer, the energy of a live harness race is captivating. Reddit Many social media posts highlight the intensity and speed of these races, often featuring close finishes and dramatic moments. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the Races: Events and Entertainment

Meadowlands Racetrack is more than just a place for horse racing; it's a dynamic entertainment hub. Throughout the year, the venue hosts a variety of special events that draw diverse crowds. These can range from popular food festivals, like seafood celebrations and BBQ battles, to unique animal races such as the much-talked-about Wiener Dog Derby. Instagram+2

These events often provide a family-friendly atmosphere with activities like face painting and live music, making the racetrack a destination for more than just racing enthusiasts. The 100th Hambletonian, a prestigious harness race, is often celebrated with a large summer festival, combining the thrill of the sport with broader entertainment. Instagram This multifaceted approach ensures there's always something happening at the Meadowlands, appealing to a wide audience looking for a fun and engaging experience. Instagram

Views and Amenities: A Modern Racetrack Experience

The Meadowlands Racetrack has undergone significant modernization, offering visitors a contemporary and comfortable experience. A standout feature is the rooftop terrace, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of both the racetrack and the iconic New York City skyline. This vantage point is a popular spot for photos and for simply enjoying the ambiance. Reddit

Beyond the views, the venue boasts a clean and well-designed grandstand, ensuring good sightlines from various seating areas. Reddit Amenities include casual dining options, bars, and the FanDuel Sportsbook, catering to different preferences. The accessibility of free admission and parking further enhances the visitor experience, making it an attractive option for a night out without significant expense. Reddit

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