What:
Remember Smarty Jones? Few outside of Arkansas remember that this great horse story started in Hot Springs, AR at Oaklawn / Oak Lawn. Oaklawn is a horse racing track and they've expanded to include electronic gambling like craps, poker, blackjack and slot-like machines. See some photographs.
Where:
Oaklawn is located in Hot Springs, AR. It's about an hour drive from Little Rock. Oaklawn Park is located at 2705 Central Ave, Highway 7, just south of Historic downtown Hot Springs.
Google Maps
Google Maps
Hours of Operation / Promotions / Contact:
The live season starts Saturday, January 12 in 2013. Gates open 2 hours before post time. Live racing is Thursday - Sundays on most days.
Post Times
Weekdays & Sundays - 1:30 p.m.
Saturdays - 1:00 p.m.
Special Giveaways and Post Times
Saturday, January 12 - 1:00 p.m. (opening day, 50 cent corned beef and 10 cent drinks)
Monday, January 21 - 1:00 p.m. (Martin Luther King Day - Free Oaklawn Ball Cap while supplies last)
Monday, February 18 - 1:00 p.m. (Presidents Day - Progressive Cash Giveaway)
Saturday, March 16 - 1:30 (Boat and Truck Giveaway)
April 10-April 13 - 1:30 (Racing Festival of the South)
Saturday, April 13 - 12:00 (Arkansas Derby)
Costs:
The price for parking depends on where you park. The average is about $5, but some free parking is available. Gate admission is $2. Racing programs start at $1.75. The minimum bet is $2. You don't have to bet to watch.
Remember, don't take the races too seriously, it's really about having fun. Winning money is just a bonus!
Electronic Gaming:
Oaklawn has a wide variety of electronic games. Their electric gaming is almost like a casino. They have video poker, instant racing and games similar to slots and blackjack. They play Plinko on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Simulcast:
Oaklawn Simulcasts many races from tracks throughout the country and you can bet on those too. The results for most races are announced and you can check the races on the screens found throughout the park.
Ages:
Children are allowed inside park but you must be 18 to bet. I often see children and families when I visit Oaklawn. Children love to watch the horses.
More about Hot Springs:
Looking for Hot Springs information? My Hot Springs travel planning guide has attractions, places to eat and more.
Website:
http://www.oaklawn.com
The website features a schedule, betting information, seating charts and more.
The website features a schedule, betting information, seating charts and more.
