Best Of Both Worlds
Racinos raise up the excitement by combining live racing with action-packed casino gaming
Racinos have been a part of the gaming industry ever since the Prairie Meadows racetrack in Iowa added slots in 1996. That tentative first step into a new genre of gambling brought renewed life to the struggling racetrack and added the term “racino” to our lexicon as a mash-up of “casino” and “racetrack.” It also quickly sparked the legalization of racetrack slots in other states.
Slots and video lottery terminal—and in some locations, table games—have brought a touch of Las Vegas as well as a cash influx to the tracks. Many are still small, offering a limited number of games, while others have blossomed into full-service resorts with comfortable hotels, a variety of dining options, showrooms and a constant influx of big-name entertainment.
For many gambling enthusiasts, racinos are the best of both worlds—the thrill of betting on live horse or dog races, combined with all the gaming action you can ask for. Throw is some fine dining, luxurious hotels and amentities and top-notch entertainement and the “new breed” of racinos offer a perfect getaway for players.
What follows is a spotlight on some of the best racinos from coast to coast.
Casino at Delaware Park
Wilmington, DE
Casino at Delaware Park is a multi-faceted gaming facility conveniently located minutes south of Wilmington and the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Along with the excitement of over 2,000 slot machines on two spacious levels and popular table games, they offer live thoroughbred racing, which will open on Wednesday, May 26, and conclude on Saturday, October 16. Year-round simulcast wagering, keno, delicious dining options, a worldclass 18-hole championship public golf course, and now, full sports betting on all professional and college sports! This unique mix of amenities truly makes Delaware Park a diverse entertainment experience that will keep you coming back for more.
KEEPING YOU SAFE
Delaware Park has guests’ safety and well-being as their first priority. They have their slots open according to state guidelines every day from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. and 24 hours on weekends from Friday 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday. Table games are open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. and 24 hours on weekends from Friday 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday, with the exception of poker, which is still temporarily unavailable. Sports betting is open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and simulcasting is available Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday-Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Extensive cleaning methods are in place to help ensure the health and safety of all employees and returning guests. All public and employee spaces have been undergoing intense cleaning using CDC-recommended products/equipment and special UV light technology. Other procedures and preventive measures are used to make Casino at Delaware Park a Safety First Racino. Safety measures include:
-Face masks are required for all guests and employees at all times. For additional safety, slot attendants are provided with full face shields. Bandanas, gaiters and face coverings with open valves/ vents are no longer considered acceptable and will not be permitted.
-Upon entering, all guests will pass through a temperature unit using thermal technology to ensure no one who registers a fever will have access to the facilities. Employees will have their temperature taken as well on a daily basis at a separate entrance.
-Guests will be directed to practice safe physical distancing while waiting in lines using floor decals that are placed 6 feet apart. Locations include entrances, the Player Rewards Club, cashiers, ATMs, ticket redemption machines, restaurants and all self-betting machines (racing and sports).
-Additional hand sanitizer stations are available in many locations throughout the property for guest and employee usage.
-All games, including high-touch, high-traffic areas, will be cleaned frequently (during opening hours and overnight) using the latest UV light technology and effective cleaning agents.
For more information on Casino at Delaware Park, visit www.delawarepark.com.
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel
Vinton, LA
Located right on the Texas border just two hours from Houston, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel in Vinton, LA, is your first stop for Louisiana gaming excitement. Make your stay memorable with Delta Downs’ accommodations. Featuring the best in luxury and comfort, whether you stay in the new 167-room tower or one of the 200 newly renovated rooms, Delta Downs hotel is a perfect way to end your day at the racetrack and casino.
Boasting an extensive collection of more than 1,600 of the most popular slots and video machines—including a separate high-limit area—Delta Downs combines fast action and friendly service to provide the ultimate destination for slot aficionados. Check out the best live racing in the region, or watch a simulcast from another track. Whatever option you choose, Delta Downs offers ample seating in grandstands and a state-of-the art track-betting parlor.
Delta Downs offers culinary experiences to satisfy every craving. The Rosewater Grill & Tavern offers mouth-watering steaks and the new video poker n delectable seafood. Or, take a bite out of dinerstyle favorites 24/7, deli sandwiches, barbecued specialties and so much more at Gator Grill. For more info, visit www.deltadowns.com.
Hialeah Park Racing & Casino
Hialeah, FL
Step back in time to an era of grand celebrations and manicured grounds with picturesque gardens—experience Hialeah Park Racing & Casino! Hialeah Park is easily accessible by all major highways,
and conveniently located 5 minutes from Miami International Airport and 10 minutes from South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables and Doral. A South Florida mainstay for over 90 years, Hialeah Park has 200 acres of lush landscape and historic architecture and is known simply as “The World’s Most Beautiful Horse Race Course.”
Hialeah Park Casino features over 850 slots with only the latest and most popular machines on the market, including electronic blackjack and roulette. The design of the casino features wide-open spaces intended for ultimate customer comfort. The windows in the casino look out onto the horse track and the beautifully manicured gardens and fountains. The space gives off an elegant and warm feeling as dark wood accents adorn the casino throughout. Hialeah’s rare qualities make it a truly unique location and a must on any slot aficionado’s to-do list.
Hialeah Park Casino is home to the most dynamic and exciting slot action in all of South Florida. No matter what your level of play is, you’ll find something that’s right for you. The Las Vegas-style slot machines are ranked THE LOOSEST on the entire East Coast by Casino Player and Strictly Slots magazine’s annual Loosest Slots awards, and incorporate state-of-the-art technology to keep players continually entertained. With paybacks this great, why play anywhere else?
The Hialeah Park team is constantly searching to bring you the newest and best games. Don’t see a game you love, let them know and they will look into getting it! On the floor you will find Dragon Link, 88 Fortunes and Dancing Drums, plus local favorites Liberty 7’s, Diamond Lotto and Royal Reels.
Looking to try something different, how about poker? Hialeah Park has become one of South Florida’s successful poker rooms featuring all the popular games and stakes. Visitors can choose Texas Hold ’em, 7 Card Stud and Omaha Hi-Lo. Or maybe enjoy simulcasting from around the country in the Champions simulcasting room.
If you’re feeling a bit hungry, don’t worry—Hialeah Park has that covered as well. All the food at Hialeah Park is made with the finest ingredients and will please your palate with every bite. Stop by Junior’s Bistro and enjoy delicious sandwiches, steaks, chicken and pasta dishes.
Hialeah Park is magnificent and iconic, holding the distinction of being an Audubon Bird Sanctuary with flamingos on site and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hialeah Park Racing & Casino is a true treasure to be experienced.
For more information, visit www.hialeahpark.com
Miami Valley Gaming
LEBANON, OHIO
Located just 35 minutes from Cincinnati, this racino offers plenty of gamble and lots of fun. Head to the casino for great slot machine action. Test your luck at machines like Dragon Cash, Double Easy Money, Regal Riches, Timber Wolf Xtreme, and Buffalo Gold. The list of top games at Miami Valley goes on and on and offers games to suit any mood.
For a delicious meal, head over to Cin City Sea & Steak. This eatery offers fantastic meals that will leave you yearning for your next visit. For big, juicy burgers, savory pulled pork, scrumptious flatbread pizza and the best double beef chili cheese hot dog around, visit the Trifecta Eatery. For that pick-me-up, MV Perks serves an assortment of beverages including energy drinks, tea, juice and a variety of specialty coffee drinks.
Live racing is back! Harness racing offers more ways to hit it big. Book your superfecta or daily double and watch the live racing action through May. Plenty of simulcast racing is also available all year long and features races from the country’s best tracks—from thoroughbred racing to quarter horses.
Miami Valley Gaming Raceway is conveniently located between Cincinnati and Dayton off I-75 at Exit
The facility includes a 5/8-mile track, 156-stall paddock and a 14,600-square-foot grandstand. Miami Valley Gaming offers the best of both worlds—casino action and racing. Don’t forget to visit next time you’re in the area.
For more information, visit www.MiamiValleyGaming.com