Parx Racing, located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, is one of the premier horse racing venues in the United States. Formerly known as Philadelphia Park, Parx Racing has become a significant fixture in the horse racing industry since its establishment in the 1970s. The venue is renowned for its exciting races, top-notch facilities, and substantial contributions to the industry. With a year-round racing schedule, Parx Racing attracts thousands of visitors, including racing enthusiasts, families, and tourists looking for an unforgettable experience.
History of Parx Racing
The Early Years
Parx Racing began its journey as Philadelphia Park Racetrack in 1974. The track was initially developed to replace the defunct Liberty Bell Park Racetrack, which had served the Philadelphia area for decades. Located just outside of Philadelphia in Bensalem, the new venue quickly became a hub for Thoroughbred racing, drawing crowds from across the region.
The inaugural race at Philadelphia Park took place on November 4, 1974, marking the start of a new era in Pennsylvania racing. The track’s convenient location, combined with its modern facilities, helped it quickly gain popularity. In its early years, the track was primarily known for its daily racing cards and the Pennsylvania Derby, which would go on to become one of the most significant races in the United States.
Rebranding as Parx Racing
In 2010, Philadelphia Park underwent a major rebranding, emerging as Parx Racing and Casino. This transformation was part of a broader effort to modernize the facility and expand its offerings beyond horse racing. The addition of a casino, complete with slot machines, table games, and entertainment options, marked a new chapter for the venue, attracting a broader audience and providing additional revenue streams to support the racing operations.
The rebranding also included upgrades to the racing facilities, including improvements to the track surface, grandstands, and stables. These enhancements ensured that Parx Racing remained competitive in the evolving landscape of American horse racing, maintaining its status as a premier racing destination.
Growth and Expansion
Since its rebranding, Parx Racing has continued to grow and expand its offerings. The track has consistently attracted top-tier racing talent, hosting numerous stakes races and special events throughout the year. The venue’s success can be attributed to its commitment to providing a high-quality racing experience for both participants and spectators.
In addition to its racing operations, Parx Racing has also made significant contributions to the local community and the broader horse racing industry. The track has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives, supporting various causes related to education, healthcare, and animal welfare. Parx Racing’s impact extends beyond the racetrack, making it a vital part of the community and the industry as a whole.
Track Details and Facilities at Parx Racing
The Racing Surface
Parx Racing features a one-mile dirt track that is known for its consistency and safety. The track surface is meticulously maintained, ensuring that it provides a fair and even racing experience for all participants. The dirt track is complemented by a seven-furlong turf course, which hosts a variety of turf races throughout the year. The combination of dirt and turf racing allows Parx Racing to offer a diverse range of race types and distances, catering to different kinds of horses and racing preferences.
The Grandstands and Viewing Areas
The grandstands at Parx Racing provide a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience for spectators. The facility offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing fans to choose between watching the races from the comfort of climate-controlled areas or enjoying the action from the outdoor stands. The grandstands offer excellent sightlines of the track, ensuring that fans can see all the racing action, from the starting gate to the finish line.
For those looking for a more premium experience, Parx Racing offers VIP suites and private boxes. These areas provide an elevated view of the track and include amenities such as private betting terminals, catering services, and dedicated waitstaff. The VIP areas are popular among corporate clients and groups looking to celebrate special occasions at the races.
Stabling and Training Facilities
Parx Racing is equipped with extensive stabling and training facilities, making it a preferred venue for trainers and horse owners. The track’s stables can accommodate hundreds of horses, providing them with a safe and comfortable environment. The training facilities include both dirt and turf training tracks, allowing horses to prepare for races in conditions similar to those they will face on race day.
The track’s commitment to horse welfare is evident in its state-of-the-art veterinary facilities and its adherence to strict safety protocols. Parx Racing works closely with veterinarians and industry experts to ensure that all horses competing at the track receive the highest standard of care.
Betting and Wagering Options
Betting is a central part of the Parx Racing experience, and the track offers a wide range of wagering options to suit all levels of experience. From traditional win, place, and show bets to more complex wagers such as exactas, trifectas, and superfectas, there is something for everyone. Parx Racing also offers simulcast wagering, allowing fans to bet on races from other tracks around the country.
For those new to horse racing, Parx Racing provides resources and assistance to help them understand the basics of betting. The track’s website offers tutorials and guides, and friendly staff are available at the betting windows to answer questions and help with placing bets.
Dining and Entertainment
Parx Racing offers a variety of dining options for racegoers, ranging from casual concessions to fine dining experiences. The track’s restaurants and bars serve a wide range of cuisines, ensuring that there is something to suit every taste. The Liberty Bell Gastro Pub, located within the casino, offers a selection of craft beers and gourmet dishes, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a meal before or after the races.
In addition to live racing, Parx Racing offers a variety of entertainment options throughout the year. The on-site casino provides gaming action with slot machines, table games, and poker, while the track’s event calendar includes concerts, comedy shows, and special events. Parx Racing is a destination for both racing enthusiasts and those looking for a fun day or night out.
Key Events at Parx Racing
The Pennsylvania Derby
The Pennsylvania Derby is the crown jewel of Parx Racing’s event calendar. Held annually in September, this Grade I race for three-year-olds is one of the most prestigious events in American horse racing. The race covers a distance of one and one-eighth miles on the dirt track and offers a substantial purse, attracting top horses, trainers, and jockeys from across the country.
The Pennsylvania Derby has a rich history, with many of its winners going on to achieve further success in other major races. The event draws large crowds and is a highlight of the racing season, with fans eager to see some of the best young horses in the country compete for glory.
The Cotillion Stakes
Held on the same day as the Pennsylvania Derby, the Cotillion Stakes is another marquee event at Parx Racing. This Grade I race is for three-year-old fillies and is run over a distance of one and one-sixteenth miles on the dirt track. The Cotillion Stakes is one of the most important races for fillies in the United States, offering a substantial purse and attracting a top-class field each year.
The Cotillion Stakes has produced many standout performances over the years, with several of its winners going on to become champions in the sport. The race is a key event in the build-up to the Breeders’ Cup, and its outcomes often have implications for year-end awards in the sport.
The Parx Dash
The Parx Dash is a five-furlong sprint on the turf course, held annually in July. This race is a Grade III event and is known for its fast and furious competition. The Parx Dash attracts some of the best turf sprinters in the country, offering a significant purse and a thrilling spectacle for fans.
The race has become a popular fixture on the summer racing calendar at Parx Racing, with its short distance leading to exciting finishes. The Parx Dash is a must-see event for fans of turf racing and is known for its competitive fields and high-energy atmosphere.
The Greenwood Cup
The Greenwood Cup is a long-distance race held over one and one-half miles on the dirt track. This Grade III event is part of the Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” series, with the winner earning a spot in the Breeders’ Cup Marathon. The Greenwood Cup is one of the few major races in the United States that tests horses over a distance longer than a mile and a quarter, making it a unique challenge for both horses and jockeys.
The race is typically held in September, making it a key part of the lead-up to the Breeders’ Cup. The Greenwood Cup is known for its tactical racing, with stamina and strategy playing crucial roles in determining the winner.
The Gallant Bob Stakes
The Gallant Bob Stakes is a six-furlong sprint on the dirt track, held annually in September. This Grade II race is open to three-year-olds and is named in honor of the champion sprinter Gallant Bob, who raced in the 1970s. The Gallant Bob Stakes is one of the top sprint races for three-year-olds in the United States, offering a substantial purse and attracting a strong field each year.
The race is known for its speed and excitement, with the short distance leading to quick and competitive finishes. The Gallant Bob Stakes is a key event on the Pennsylvania Derby undercard and is eagerly anticipated by fans and participants alike.
The Smarty Jones Stakes
Named after the 2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Smarty Jones, the Smarty Jones Stakes is a key event for three-year-olds at Parx Racing. The race is held over one and one-sixteenth miles on the dirt track and is typically run in August. The Smarty Jones Stakes is a listed race, offering a significant purse and serving as a stepping stone for horses aiming for the Pennsylvania Derby or other major races in the fall.
The race is a tribute to Smarty Jones, who was based at Parx Racing during his illustrious career. The Smarty Jones Stakes is a popular event among fans, who come out to celebrate the legacy of one of Pennsylvania’s most famous racehorses.
The Turf Amazon Stakes
The Turf Amazon Stakes is a five-furlong sprint on the turf course, held annually in September. This listed race is open to fillies and mares three years old and up, and is known for its competitive fields and exciting finishes. The Turf Amazon Stakes is one of the top turf sprint races for fillies and mares in the United States, offering a significant purse and attracting a quality field each year.
The race is part of the Pennsylvania Derby Day undercard and adds to the excitement of the day’s events. The Turf Amazon Stakes is a must-see race for fans of turf racing and is known for its fast pace and thrilling conclusions.
Contributions to the Horse Racing Industry
Commitment to Horse Welfare
Parx Racing is deeply committed to the welfare of the horses that compete at its track. The venue has implemented numerous safety measures and protocols to ensure that horses are treated with the highest standard of care. This includes regular veterinary inspections, strict medication policies, and state-of-the-art track maintenance practices.
The track’s dedication to horse welfare extends beyond the racetrack, with Parx Racing actively supporting initiatives aimed at retired racehorses. The venue has been involved in various programs that promote the responsible retirement and rehoming of Thoroughbreds, helping to ensure that these horses have a life beyond racing.
Support for the Local Community
Parx Racing is a significant contributor to the local community in Bensalem and the surrounding areas. The track and its associated casino are major employers in the region, providing jobs for thousands of people in various roles, including racing operations, hospitality, and administration. The track’s presence has also stimulated growth in related industries, such as breeding, training, and veterinary services.
In addition to direct employment, Parx Racing generates substantial revenue through wagering, tourism, and events. The track attracts visitors from across the region and beyond, contributing to the local economy through spending on accommodations, dining, and entertainment. Parx Racing is also involved in numerous charitable initiatives, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and animal welfare.
Advancements in Racing Technology
Parx Racing has been at the forefront of advancements in racing technology, continually investing in modern facilities and equipment to ensure that races are conducted fairly and safely. This includes state-of-the-art timing and scoring systems, as well as advanced track maintenance practices that help to provide a consistent and safe racing surface.
The track has also been proactive in implementing technology to enhance the fan experience. Parx Racing offers live streaming of races, mobile betting options, and real-time race updates, allowing fans to engage with the sport in new and exciting ways. The venue’s commitment to innovation has helped it stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive industry.
Contribution to Pennsylvania-Bred Racing
Parx Racing has played a crucial role in promoting and supporting Pennsylvania-bred racing. The track hosts numerous races each year that are restricted to Pennsylvania-bred horses, offering lucrative purses and incentives that encourage local breeding and racing. This commitment to state-bred racing has helped to elevate the quality of Pennsylvania’s breeding program and has provided a platform for local horses to compete and succeed.
The track’s focus on Pennsylvania-bred racing is supported by the state’s breeding incentives, which offer bonuses to breeders, owners, and trainers of state-bred horses. These incentives have made Pennsylvania a more attractive place for breeding and racing, contributing to the growth of the industry in the state.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Parx Racing has a strong tradition of philanthropy and community engagement. The track and its parent company, Greenwood Racing Inc., have been active in supporting local charities and community initiatives. This includes donations to organizations that support education, healthcare, and social services, as well as sponsorship of local events and sports teams.
The track also hosts special events and fundraisers throughout the year, raising money for various causes and providing opportunities for the local community to come together. These efforts have helped to build strong relationships between Parx Racing and the surrounding community, ensuring that the track remains a valued and respected institution in the region.
The Fan Experience at Parx Racing
A Unique Atmosphere
Parx Racing offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere for fans of all ages. The track’s location in Bensalem provides a convenient and accessible venue for residents of the Philadelphia metropolitan area and beyond. The relaxed and friendly vibe at Parx Racing makes it an enjoyable place to spend an afternoon or evening, whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the sport.
Viewing Options
The track offers a variety of viewing options to suit different preferences and budgets. The grandstand provides excellent views of the entire track, with comfortable seating and easy access to concessions and betting windows. For those looking for a more immersive experience, the trackside viewing areas allow fans to get up close to the action, with the thrill of the races just a few feet away.
Parx Racing also offers VIP packages that include access to exclusive viewing areas, such as private suites and boxes. These packages often include additional perks, such as gourmet dining, private betting services, and access to post-race events.
Dining and Entertainment
Parx Racing offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. The track’s restaurants and bars serve everything from classic trackside fare like burgers and hot dogs to more upscale options like steaks and seafood. The Liberty Bell Gastro Pub, located within the casino, offers a fine dining experience with a menu that features gourmet dishes and a wide selection of wines and spirits.
In addition to live racing, Parx Racing offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors. The on-site casino provides gaming action with slot machines, table games, and poker, while the track’s event calendar includes concerts, comedy shows, and special events. Parx Racing is a destination for both racing enthusiasts and those looking for a fun day or night out.
Betting and Simulcast Wagering
Betting is a central part of the experience at Parx Racing, and the track offers a variety of wagering options to suit all levels of experience. Fans can place bets on live races or participate in simulcast wagering, which allows them to bet on races taking place at other tracks around the country. The track’s betting windows are staffed by knowledgeable tellers who can assist with placing bets and explaining the different types of wagers.
For those who prefer to bet from the comfort of their seats, Parx Racing offers self-service betting terminals throughout the facility. These terminals allow fans to place bets quickly and easily, with real-time odds and results displayed on large screens. The track’s website also offers online wagering options, allowing fans to bet on races from anywhere with an internet connection.
Special Events and Promotions
Parx Racing hosts a variety of special events and promotions throughout the year, adding to the excitement and entertainment of the racing experience. These events range from themed race days and giveaways to major racing festivals like the Pennsylvania Derby Day. The track also offers promotions such as discounted admission, food and drink specials, and betting incentives, making it even more affordable and enjoyable for fans.
The track’s special events often include additional entertainment, such as live music, fireworks displays, and family-friendly activities. These events are a great way to experience the excitement of horse racing while enjoying a fun day out with family and friends.
Planning Your Visit to Parx Racing
Location and Address
Parx Racing is located at 3001 Street Road, Bensalem, PA 19020. The track is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as Interstate 95 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike providing convenient access. The racecourse is just a short drive from downtown Philadelphia, making it an easy day trip for those in the surrounding areas.
Parking Information
Parking at Parx Racing is plentiful and free for all visitors. The track offers several parking lots, including options for general parking and VIP parking closer to the entrance. Handicapped parking is also available near the main entrance, with shuttle services provided for those with mobility challenges.
Ticket Options
Parx Racing offers a variety of ticket options to suit different budgets and preferences. General admission tickets provide access to the grandstands and trackside viewing areas, offering a great view of the races at an affordable price. For those looking for a more exclusive experience, VIP tickets are available, offering access to premium viewing areas, private suites, and other amenities.
The track also offers special packages for groups and events, including private suites and hospitality tents. These packages are perfect for corporate events, parties, or special occasions and can be customized to include catering, betting services, and more.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodations
Visitors to Parx Racing can take advantage of the many attractions and accommodations in the surrounding area. The track is located near several shopping centers, including the Neshaminy Mall and the Franklin Mills Mall, which offer a wide range of retail and dining options. The nearby city of Philadelphia offers additional cultural attractions, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
For those looking to stay overnight, there are several hotels and motels near Parx Racing. The track’s on-site hotel, the Parx Casino Hotel, offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the racing and casino facilities. Other nearby options include budget-friendly motels, family-oriented hotels, and luxury resorts.
