New Orleans Fair Grounds
New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: (504) 522-5555
- Hours:
- Open Thanksgiving through late March
Editorial Review for New Orleans Fair Grounds – by Maura York
Overview
Internationally known as the home of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, this spot has been locally famous for its thoroughbred racing since it opened as the Union Race Course in 1852. Having survived the Civil War, two grandstand-devastating fires, a Depression-era wrecking ball, Huriacne Katrina and the recent influx of casino gambling, the 145-acre racetrack is the country's oldest site of horse racing still hosting the sport.
The Experience
New Orleans' only remaining thoroughbred racing facility has been updated with a separate OTB building and gaming devices. The glass-encased grandstand offers a comfortable way to watch the racing season's photo finishes, although nothing can compare with hovering near the rail to see firsthand which horses show and place. The Clubhouse restaurant is a good bet for those hungry for more than just a piece of the racing action.
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