What is a Racino?
A racino is a special gaming destination at a horse or greyhound racing track that also provides other gambling options such as slot machines, blackjack, roulette, or poker. There are several standard features of a racino. For example, you’ll always be able to enjoy off-track betting on races at other tracks.
There are also usually bars and restaurants, with some providing entertainment and even hotel facilities. Often, major races will be held there too, which creates a uniquely exciting atmosphere. There are several states that exclusively offer racino casino gambling rather than full-scale commercial casinos, so it’s best to be aware of where to find them.
States with Racinos
Since the first racino opened in Rhode Island in 1992, many other states have followed suit in permitting expanded gambling options at racetracks. Each state has varying laws regarding what gambling activities are permitted, with many restricting table games. However, all permit slot machines. The following are states with racinos.
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- Florida
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Mexico
- New York
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- West Virginia
In some cases, these racetracks are Native American casinos which grants them the legal right to provide expanded gambling options. Other states introduced special laws to exclusively give racetracks the right to provide slots gambling. Whatever the case, these special casinos are worth visiting for an exciting day or night out.
The Best USA Racinos
With many of the states with legal racinos providing several racetracks to visit, it may be hard to know which racinos provide the most exciting and unique gambling opportunities. This is why we’ve highlighted the six best USA racinos in the following section. We’ve described the games and amenities available at each.
A racino is a unique gaming destination located at a horse or greyhound racing track that also provides other gambling options such as slot machines.
1. Mohegan Sun Pocono, Pennsylvania
Of all the USA racinos included on this list, the Mohegan Sun Pocono provides the closest thing to a Vegas-style gambling experience. It offers thrilling live harness races from February to October, with year-round betting options available at simulcast wagering terminals. Sports betting is also available in the newly installed betting lounge.
In the gaming room, there are over 1,700 slots and 60 table games to wager on, with everything from poker tournaments to roulette on offer. There is also a high-limit gaming area for high-rollers. The site is connected to a luxury hotel with many restaurants, clubs, bars, and a day spa to make your stay comfortable.
2. Saratoga Racino Hotel, New York
Located in Saratoga Springs, the Saratoga Racino Hotel provides an exciting gambling holiday with many fun gambling options. Visitors can enjoy slots, video poker, and keno, as well as several electronic table games. These include blackjack, roulette, and craps, none of which have live dealers. Of course, there is also simulcast betting.
Visitors can enjoy live harness racing in the grandstand, by the track, or while eating in an American-style restaurant. There are five other bars and restaurants to unwind at, and if you plan on an overnight stay, the luxurious hotel offers a range of rooms and suites. There is also an indoor pool and a large function room.
3. Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino, Louisiana
Located just 30 minutes from Lake Charles, the Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino is one of Louisiana’s finest gaming destinations. There are more than 1,500 slots to enjoy, including a high-limit area for those with larger budgets. You can also enjoy jackpot slots and sports betting.
At the racetrack, you’ll find frequent races or make simulcast wagers in the lush betting parlor. There are several dining options to suit all budgets, and the Delta Down Entertainment Center frequently hosts major acts. There are two hotel towers too which accommodate more than 350 rooms and suites.
4. Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Iowa
The Prairie Meadows Racetrack was opened in 1989 and has been one of the biggest success stories on this list. As a thoroughbred and quarter-horse racetrack, the site’s casino also provides comprehensive Grade III gambling options. This includes slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, and much more.
When you’re not watching live races or betting at the off-track parlors, you can also wager in the state-of-the-art sports betting lounge. There are plenty of entertainment options and an adjoined hotel with luxurious rooms and suites. When you’re hungry, enjoy one of six restaurants and bars, with fine dining options also available.
5. Delaware Park Racetrack, Delaware
The Delaware Park Racetrack is one of three racinos located in Delaware. It also has the unique honor of launching one of the first online casinos in the USA. At Delaware Park, you can enjoy many live racing events between May and October. Alternatively, wager on other local or international events in the sportsbook and race betting parlor.
The casino provides a staggering 1,900 slots, blackjack, roulette, and several poker options. There are also eight restaurants with many different cuisines to try and a brewery to try tasty local beers. You’ll be able to watch exciting performers here too, and the racetrack is conveniently located near Wilmington.
6. Jack Thistledown Racino, Ohio
Located in North Randall, the Jack Thistledown Racino was officially converted into a casino in 2013. As the home of the Ohio Derby, this site has hosted thoroughbred racing since 1931. While the site does not permit table games, visitors can enjoy slot machines and sports betting at this site.
With over 1,400 slots, you’ll always have something new to try. There are frequent live races at the site, and visitors can also enjoy off-track betting on major national races here such as the Kentucky Derby. When you’re hungry, enjoy dining at one of the site’s six restaurants and relax at the bar and lounges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you looking for the best USA racinos? Keep reading to find answers to common questions about the best racing and gambling establishments in the USA. If you want to find out more about other gambling related topics, we suggest you check out more online gambling articles.
What is a racino?
A racino is a special gambling destination that provides live horse races and land-based casino gaming. You’ll be able to partake in live and simulcast horse race betting, though the available gambling options will always be different. These can include slots, table games, poker, and sports betting. Many racinos also provide hotel accommodations, dining options, and live entertainment for a more comfortable visit.
Where to find a racino near me?
There are racinos in 16 US states, including Arkansas, New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio among others. It’s rare that they are in major cities due to their size and scale, and some are within Native American tribal lands. Fortunately, the drive shouldn’t be too far, and before you visit, be sure to brush up on your horse racing terms.
What's the difference between a racino and a casino?
The difference between racinos and casinos is that racinos have live horse racing and simulcast wagering, while casinos do not. In many cases, racinos will only offer slot machine gambling, while when many think of casinos, they also think of slots and table game offerings. The racinos have a rich history in the USA, with some of the most famous racehorses racing at these historical tracks.
