Summer Vacation Spotlight: Horse Racing Vacation Getaways
In the spring and summer season, one of the greatest options for weekend activities or a planned travel vacation getaway is to witness one of the most unique spectacles in the sports world of the United States: horse racing. Each year, hundreds of thousands of fans of the sport, excited onlookers and people just interested in getting a taste of the traditional culture of horse racing flock to Louisville, KY for the famous Kentucky Derby. This beautiful, historic town is know for a lot more than just horses, but the Derby can be one of the most exciting times of the year to take in the local hospitality and find some excellent hotel and dining options as well.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about horse racing and even placing a few bets, or just looking to relax in the shade with a mint julep after an exciting day at the races, here are some more of the top places to visit this summer for horse racing.
Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Springs, NY
Saratoga boasts not only a 7-week racing season from mid July through the end of August that features races every day, this beautiful race course is also set amidst one of the most quaint and historically relaxing vacation spots in the northeast. Known also for it’s healing hot springs, Saratoga has a wide array of excellent restaurants and nightlife options, as well as lots of beautiful inns and bed and breakfasts located within the dynamic downtown area and the more peaceful rural outskirts. This is a great place to visit for the whole family, as there’s plenty to do for everyone.
Santa Anita Park, Arcadia, CA
Santa Anita is another picturesque racetrack situated on over three hundred acres of beautiful palm tree filled landscapes in the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains. What’s great about Santa Anita is that its season runs from late December into early April due to the good weather there that time of year, making it a great place for eats coast racing fans to get away during the colder months. It’s close proximity to Los Angeles also makes it very attractive to travelers.
Pimlico Race Course, Baltimore, MD
Visitng Baltimore can be about much more than just eating crabs! Pimlico is one of the most historic parks in the country, and home to the Preakness Stakes, the second stop on the fabled Triple Crown tour for racehorses. The history and sense of awe will strike you whether you’re relaxing in the grandstand or close to the action on the infield.
If you’re a big fan of the sport or just interested in spending an interesting vacation weekend this summer, try checking out these great horse racing events!
