Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort

Overview

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is the crown jewel of Arkansas gaming and one of the most historically significant horse racing venues in North America. The track first opened on February 24, 1905, in the resort city of Hot Springs — then one of America's premier vacation destinations — and has operated nearly continuously ever since, surviving Prohibition, wartime closures, and decades of changing racing fortunes to emerge as one of the strongest mid-tier racing markets in the country.

When Arkansas voters approved Amendment 100 in November 2018, authorizing full commercial casino gambling at existing horse and greyhound tracks, Oaklawn was perfectly positioned. The property launched table games and a significantly expanded gaming floor in 2019, followed by a new luxury hotel tower, transforming from a seasonal racing destination into a year-round resort.

Horse Racing

Oaklawn's thoroughbred racing season runs from late January through early May, culminating in the prestigious Arkansas Derby — a Kentucky Derby prep race that has launched the careers of champions including Smarty Jones, Curlin, and Bodemeister. The track's signature events — the Rebel Stakes, Fantasy Stakes, and Arkansas Derby — draw top-tier horses, trainers, and national media coverage every spring. Live racing capacity crowds fill the grandstand and infield for major stakes days, maintaining a racing atmosphere that connects directly to the sport's golden era.

Gaming Floor

The expanded casino floor features approximately 1,400 slot and electronic game machines alongside a full complement of live table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, three-card poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. A dedicated poker room hosts daily cash games and tournaments. The Betly Sportsbook at Oaklawn — powered by Arkansas's first legally licensed sports wagering operation — offers wagering on professional and major college sports throughout the year.

Hotel

The Oaklawn Hotel tower, added as part of the post-Amendment 100 expansion, offers luxurious rooms and suites overlooking the historic racetrack's homestretch. The hotel features a resort pool, spa, and fitness center, providing amenities suited to both racing fans and leisure travelers exploring the Hot Springs area.

Dining

Oaklawn's dining portfolio spans a AAA-rated fine dining steakhouse, casual Southern comfort food venues, a racing-season grandstand buffet, and year-round quick-service options. The property's restaurants emphasize Arkansas hospitality and regional cuisine.

Getting There

Located at 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901, on the historic Central Avenue thoroughfare in Hot Springs. Approximately 55 miles southwest of Little Rock via US-70 and I-30. Complimentary self-parking and valet are available.