Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino | April 2024 Update

Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino

Overview

Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino is a thoroughbred racetrack and casino located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The track opened in 1904 and is the oldest racetrack in Arkansas. Oaklawn is home to the Arkansas Derby, one of the most prestigious races in American horse racing. The casino offers a variety of games, including slots, table games, and poker. Oaklawn is also a popular destination for live music and other events.

History

Oaklawn Racetrack was founded in 1904 by Charles and J.W. Stevens. The track was originally located on a 100-acre tract of land in Hot Springs. The first race at Oaklawn was held on May 3, 1904. In 1905, Oaklawn was sold to a group of investors led by William Randolph Hearst. Hearst made a number of improvements to the track, including the addition of a grandstand and a clubhouse.

In 1938, Oaklawn was sold to a group of investors led by E.P. Taylor. Taylor continued to make improvements to the track, including the addition of a new clubhouse and the construction of a new track. In 1941, Oaklawn hosted its first Arkansas Derby. The Arkansas Derby quickly became one of the most prestigious races in American horse racing.

In 1994, Oaklawn was sold to Magna Entertainment Corporation. Magna made a number of improvements to the track, including the addition of a new casino. In 2010, Oaklawn was sold to Churchill Downs Incorporated. Churchill Downs has continued to invest in Oaklawn, making a number of improvements to the track and the casino.

Facilities

Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino has a variety of facilities, including a thoroughbred racetrack, a casino, a hotel, and a convention center. The racetrack is a one-mile oval with a seven-furlong chute. The casino offers a variety of games, including slots, table games, and poker. The hotel has over 500 rooms and suites. The convention center can accommodate up to 2,500 people.

Events

Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Arkansas Derby, the Oaklawn Handicap, and the Rebel Stakes. The Arkansas Derby is one of the most prestigious races in American horse racing. The race is held annually on the first Saturday in May. The Oaklawn Handicap is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-olds and up. The race is held annually on the first Saturday in June. The Rebel Stakes is a Grade II stakes race for three-year-olds. The race is held annually on the first Saturday in February.

Location

Oaklawn Racetrack and Casino is located at 2705 Central Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The track is about a 45-minute drive from Little Rock, Arkansas. Oaklawn is also about a 2-hour drive from Memphis, Tennessee.