Thoroughbred

Parx Racing

PA, United States

Pennsylvania's largest thoroughbred track hosts the Pennsylvania Derby and Cotillion Stakes with a full racino and sportsbook on site.

Track Facts

Year Opened

1974

Grandstand Capacity

7,000

Primary Surface

Dirt

Racing & Gaming

Thoroughbred Racing
Harness Racing
Quarter Horse Racing
Racino Gaming
Sportsbook
OTB
Simulcast

Season & Major Events

Grade II Stakes

Major Events:

  • Pennsylvania Derby
  • Cotillion Stakes

About Parx Racing

<h2>About Parx Racing</h2> <p>Parx Racing stands as one of Pennsylvania's most storied thoroughbred racing venues, offering fans an electrifying blend of rich tradition and modern excitement. Located in Bensalem, just northeast of Philadelphia, Parx has been a cornerstone of Mid-Atlantic horse racing for over a century, drawing competitors and spectators from across the region and beyond.</p> <h3>History and Heritage</h3> <p>Originally known as Keystone Race Track when it opened in 1974, the facility was later rebranded as Philadelphia Park before adopting the Parx Racing name in 2010. However, horse racing in the area stretches back much further, with the grounds carrying decades of competitive spirit. Today, Parx operates as one of the highest-volume thoroughbred tracks in the United States, consistently ranking among the top tracks nationwide by total wagering handle.</p> <h3>Location and Facilities</h3> <p>Situated in Bensalem, Bucks County, Parx Racing benefits from an accessible location just 20 miles from downtown Philadelphia. The facility accommodates up to 7,000 spectators across its grandstand and clubhouse areas, offering a variety of seating options from open-air general admission to premium enclosed spaces with panoramic views of the action.</p> <ul> <li>Full-service dining and bar options throughout the grandstand</li> <li>The Turf Club for premium hospitality experiences</li> <li>Simulcast wagering on races from tracks across North America</li> <li>A state-of-the-art paddock area for pre-race viewing</li> <li>On-site Parx Casino, one of Pennsylvania's largest gaming facilities</li> </ul> <h3>Track Characteristics</h3> <p>Parx Racing features a one-mile dirt oval that rewards horses with speed, stamina, and the ability to handle an all-weather surface. The dirt track plays true across varying conditions, making it a reliable venue for competitive racing year-round. The configuration suits a wide range of distances, from sprints under six furlongs to classic routes stretching beyond a mile and an eighth.</p> <ul> <li>Surface: dirt, one-mile oval</li> <li>Races run clockwise in the American tradition</li> <li>Suitable for sprint and route distances</li> <li>Year-round racing calendar with live meets throughout the seasons</li> </ul> <h3>Notable Races</h3> <p>Parx hosts a compelling stakes schedule that attracts quality thoroughbreds from the East Coast circuit. The <strong>Parx Racing Turf Monster Handicap</strong> is one of the track's signature events, drawing sprinters of the highest caliber. The track's rich Pennsylvania Derby history — before that race moved — underscores Parx's role in developing and showcasing top-class talent on the Mid-Atlantic circuit. Graded stakes appearances at Parx regularly feature horses with national profiles, giving local fans access to elite competition.</p> <h3>Visitor Experience</h3> <p>A day at Parx Racing is an immersive experience that goes well beyond the races themselves. The energy of live thoroughbred racing — the thundering hooves, the roar of the crowd, and the drama of the stretch run — creates memories that keep fans coming back season after season. Families, groups, and serious horseplayers all find something to love at Parx.</p> <ul> <li>Live racing most days throughout the active meet</li> <li>Guided paddock access for up-close horse viewing before races</li> <li>Special event days featuring concerts, giveaways, and themed promotions</li> <li>Easy access from Philadelphia via I-95 and Route 1</li> </ul> <h3>Wagering at Parx</h3> <p>Parx Racing offers a full menu of wagering options for both casual bettors and seasoned handicappers. Win, place, and show bets provide straightforward entry points, while exotic wagers — exactas, trifectas, superfectas, and multi-race picks like the Daily Double and Pick 5 — give experienced players the chance to chase significant payouts. The simulcast lounge expands the options dramatically, bringing action from tracks nationwide into one convenient location every day of the week.</p>

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