Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the world. From the glitz and glamour of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip to the endless casino action, Las Vegas is truly a must-see destination for all kinds of travelers. But did you know that Las Vegas also has a horse racetrack? That’s right, Las Vegas is home to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a premier equestrian facility that offers thrilling horse racing action. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and explore why it’s a must-see attraction.
History of Horse Racing in Las Vegas
Horse racing has been a part of Las Vegas since the late 19th century. In 1884, the first horse race was held in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Driving Park. The track was located south of the Las Vegas Strip and was one of the first of its kind in the region. The track featured a one-mile oval and was the site of many races throughout the years.
In the 1930s, the Las Vegas Horse Racing Association was formed and opened a new track on the current site of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The track was a half-mile oval track and was the first to offer pari-mutuel betting in the state of Nevada. The track was a popular destination for both locals and tourists and continued to be a popular spot until the early 1950s.
The Las Vegas Motor Speedway
The Las Vegas Motor Speedway, which is located just north of the Las Vegas Strip, is the current home of horse racing in Las Vegas. The track was opened in 1972 and has been hosting exciting races ever since. The track features a one-mile oval and is the premier horse racing facility in the city.
The track features a variety of events throughout the year, from high stakes races to smaller local events. The track is also home to a variety of special events, such as the Las Vegas Breeders’ Cup and the Las Vegas Derby. The track is also the site of the annual Las Vegas Grand Prix, a prestigious horse race that attracts some of the top horses from around the world.
Betting at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway
In addition to the exciting racing action, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway also offers pari-mutuel betting. This type of betting allows for wagering on the outcome of races and is popular among horse racing fans. Betting is available in the grandstands and at the track’s betting windows.
The track also offers simulcast betting, which allows for betting on races at other tracks around the country. This type of betting is popular among horse racing fans as it allows them to place bets on races at tracks they may not otherwise be able to attend.
Conclusion
Las Vegas is home to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a premier horse racetrack that offers thrilling racing action and pari-mutuel betting. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a must-see attraction for anyone looking for a thrilling horse racing experience.