Laurel Park
Experience the thrill of thoroughbred horse racing at Laurel Park, a historic track known for live races and extensive simulcasting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the full racing atmosphere
Laurel Park
Best Time
Experience the full racing atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of thoroughbred horse racing at Laurel Park, a historic track known for live races and extensive simulcasting.
"A classic racetrack experience with the excitement of live races and the convenience of simulcasting."
🎟️ Check Race Schedule
Always confirm live race days and post times on the official Laurel Park website before your visit.
🚗 Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and find the best seats by arriving well before the first race. Parking can fill up quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Horse Racing
Main Track
Experience the thrill of live thoroughbred racing, with powerful horses and skilled jockeys competing for victory.
Preakness Stakes Viewing
Grandstands
Witness history as Laurel Park hosts the iconic Preakness Stakes, a cornerstone of the Triple Crown.
Simulcast Wagering Area
Interior Viewing Areas
Engage in simulcast betting and watch races from tracks around the world in a dedicated, comfortable environment.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Laurel Park
Understanding Laurel Park's Atmosphere
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Insider Tips
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Laurel Park
🎟️ Check Race Schedule
Always confirm live race days and post times on the official Laurel Park website before your visit.
🚗 Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and find the best seats by arriving well before the first race. Parking can fill up quickly.
Info on Laurel Race Track
First time to a horse race (Maryland area)
📱 Use Equibase App
Download the Equibase app for race programs, past performances, and live results to enhance your handicapping.
💰 Set a Betting Budget
Enjoy the thrill of wagering responsibly by setting a clear budget before you start betting.
Tips for Preakness 2024?
Tips
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🎟️ Check Race Schedule
Always confirm live race days and post times on the official Laurel Park website before your visit.
🚗 Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and find the best seats by arriving well before the first race. Parking can fill up quickly.
📱 Use Equibase App
Download the Equibase app for race programs, past performances, and live results to enhance your handicapping.
💰 Set a Betting Budget
Enjoy the thrill of wagering responsibly by setting a clear budget before you start betting.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Outdoor seating is common; dress appropriately for the season and check the forecast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Laurel Park offers a classic horse racing experience with the excitement of live races and extensive simulcasting options. Visitors appreciate the thrill of the sport and the convenience of wagering. However, some note that the park can feel empty on non-race days, primarily catering to a dedicated simulcast crowd.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laurel Park is accessible by car via major highways like US-29 and MD-198. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop near the park. For those traveling from further afield, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is the closest major airport.
Yes, Laurel Park offers ample parking for visitors. On major race days, especially during the Preakness Stakes, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Check the official website for any specific parking fees or arrangements on event days.
From Baltimore, take I-95 South to MD-198 West. From Washington D.C., take US-29 North. The park is well-signposted from these major routes.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for reaching Laurel Park. Designated drop-off and pick-up points are usually available.
Laurel Park strives to be accessible. Accessible parking and seating areas are typically available. It's advisable to contact the park directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Laurel Park is often free on non-major race days, but this can vary. For major events like the Preakness Stakes, tickets are required and prices can range significantly. It's best to check the official Laurel Park website for current admission fees and ticket packages.
Tickets for Laurel Park races can be purchased online through their official website, at the box office on race days, or sometimes through authorized third-party vendors. Booking in advance is recommended for popular events.
Laurel Park's operating hours vary depending on whether there are live races, simulcasting, or special events. The track typically opens several hours before the first live race. Always consult the official Laurel Park website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
For regular race days, advance booking might not be necessary, but it's always a good idea to check. For major events like the Preakness Stakes, booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.
Yes, Laurel Park offers various seating options, from general admission areas to reserved grandstand seats and premium hospitality boxes. Prices and availability differ based on the seating location and the event.
🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience
For the full experience, attend on a live race day. Grab a racing program, study the horses and jockeys, and place a few bets. Enjoy the atmosphere from the grandstands or the apron.
Absolutely! Laurel Park offers extensive pari-mutuel wagering on live races and simulcast events. Betting windows and self-service terminals are available throughout the facility.
The grandstands offer excellent views of the main track. For a more relaxed experience, consider the apron area or the indoor viewing areas if you're focused on simulcasting.
Yes, Laurel Park has various concessions offering food and beverages, from casual snacks to more substantial meals. Options can vary depending on the day and event.
Crowds can vary significantly. Live race days, especially weekends and major events, draw larger crowds. Weekday simulcasting days tend to be much quieter, catering primarily to dedicated bettors.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning workouts offer great light and fewer crowds for photographers. During live races, the action is intense, but capturing clear shots requires practice and good positioning.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the park's official policy.
Capture the power of the horses thundering down the track, the intensity of the jockeys, the excitement of the crowd, and the architectural details of the grandstands.
A telephoto lens is essential for capturing close-ups of the horses and jockeys. A fast shutter speed is crucial to freeze the action.
The areas near the finish line and the starting gate offer dynamic perspectives. The paddock area, where horses are paraded before a race, is also great for capturing details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, explain the basics of horse racing to older children. Focus on the athleticism of the horses and the skill of the jockeys rather than the betting aspect. Many visitors suggest that the sheer spectacle of the horses can be a hit with younger audiences, making it a unique outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money on betting, start with small wagers on win, place, or show bets. Utilize the free racing programs available or the Equibase app for handicapping information instead of purchasing expensive tip sheets. Bringing your own water bottles and snacks can also significantly cut down on expenses.
🏇 Horse Racing Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during stakes races or when top jockeys are competing to witness the highest level of competition. Engaging with fellow racing enthusiasts in the simulcast areas or grandstands can also enrich your visit, sharing tips and observations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Live Racing at Laurel Park
Beyond the main track, the paddock area offers a closer look at the magnificent thoroughbreds as they are paraded before each race. This is a prime spot to appreciate the horses' physique and the jockeys' focus. For those new to the sport, many tracks offer resources or friendly staff to help explain the basics of betting and enjoying the races.
Laurel Park hosts a variety of races throughout its season, from maiden races for newcomers to stakes races for seasoned competitors. The highlight for many is the opportunity to witness the Preakness Stakes, a jewel in the Triple Crown, which draws significant attention and a large, enthusiastic crowd.
Simulcasting and Wagering at Laurel Park
Laurel Park provides numerous betting windows and self-service terminals, making it easy to place wagers. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a novice, the park caters to all levels of experience. Understanding the different types of bets, from win, place, and show to more complex exotics like exacta and trifecta, can add another layer of engagement to your visit.
The Equibase Laurel Park platform and app are invaluable tools for anyone interested in handicapping. They provide detailed race charts, past performances, and workout information, helping visitors make informed betting decisions. This digital integration enhances the overall experience, allowing for a more strategic approach to wagering.





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