Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Arkansas's legendary thoroughbred racing venue since 1904 — 1,530 slots, 32 tables, sportsbook, live racing January-May, Arkansas Derby, Event Center, Forbes 4-star Astral Spa, The Bugler fine dining & 198-room resort hotel with trackside views.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort — Gaming Floor
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort stands as one of Arkansas’s premier gaming destinations, combining over a century of horse racing tradition with modern casino entertainment at 2705 Central Ave in Hot Springs. The expansive gaming floor features 1,530 state-of-the-art slot machines ranging from classic three-reel games to the latest video slots and progressive jackpots. Furthermore, 32 live table games offer traditional casino excitement with blackjack, craps, roulette, and specialty variants that cater to players of all skill levels. The dedicated Oaklawn Sports retail sportsbook provides comprehensive wagering opportunities for Arkansas sports betting enthusiasts, covering professional and college sports with competitive odds and modern betting technology.
The property’s crown jewel remains the legendary Oaklawn Race Course, which has hosted thoroughbred racing since 1905 and ranks among America’s most prestigious tracks. The spring racing season from January through May draws racing fans from across the nation for Grade I stakes races, including the Arkansas Derby, a crucial Kentucky Derby preparation race that has launched numerous Triple Crown contenders. However, the facility operates year-round with simulcast wagering on races from tracks nationwide, ensuring continuous action for horse racing enthusiasts. The combination of live racing, simulcasting, and comprehensive casino gaming creates an unmatched entertainment experience that distinguishes Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort from other Arkansas casinos.
Hotel & Accommodations
The 198-room hotel at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort provides luxurious accommodations that reflect the property’s dual heritage as both a world-class gaming venue and a cornerstone of Hot Springs’ resort culture. Each room features modern amenities including flat-screen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, and contemporary furnishings designed to offer comfort after exciting days of racing and gaming. Moreover, many rooms provide views of the historic race track or the scenic Ouachita Mountains that surround Hot Springs National Park. The hotel’s prime location places guests within walking distance of the famous Bathhouse Row National Historic Landmark and the natural thermal springs that have drawn visitors to the area for over 150 years.
Guest services at the hotel emphasize the convenience and luxury expected at a premier resort destination. The property offers valet parking, concierge services, and specialized packages that combine racing events with hotel stays for the ultimate Hot Springs experience. Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita provides easy access to boating, fishing, and water recreation that complement the on-site gaming and racing entertainment. The seamless integration of hotel amenities with the broader Hot Springs resort community makes Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort a compelling destination for extended stays among Hot Springs casinos.
Dining & Nightlife
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offers an impressive array of dining options that cater to every taste and occasion, from casual race day dining to upscale evening experiences. Legends Steakhouse serves as the property’s signature restaurant, featuring premium steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in an elegant atmosphere that befits special celebrations and business dinners. The Finish Line Sports Bar & Grill provides a more casual setting with American favorites, multiple television screens for sports viewing, and a menu designed to satisfy hungry gamblers and racing fans throughout the day. Racing Club Restaurant offers trackside dining with panoramic views of the historic oval, allowing guests to enjoy quality meals while watching live racing or simulcast action.
The nightlife scene at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort centers around several distinctive venues that capture the excitement of both gaming and racing culture. Roosters Sports Bar creates a lively atmosphere with craft beers, cocktails, and sports programming that keeps the energy high long after the last race has finished. Silks Lounge provides a more sophisticated setting for cocktails and conversation, featuring racing memorabilia and an upscale ambiance that celebrates the property’s storied history. Winners Circle Bar complements the gaming floor with quick service beverages and light snacks, ensuring players never have to venture far from their favorite machines or tables. Notably, the combination of these venues creates a complete entertainment ecosystem that keeps guests engaged throughout their visit to the resort.
Amenities & Entertainment
Beyond gaming and racing, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort provides comprehensive amenities that enhance every aspect of the guest experience. The property features a dedicated entertainment venue that hosts live music performances, comedy shows, and special events throughout the year, attracting both local residents and visiting guests. The venue’s flexible design accommodates intimate performances as well as larger productions, making it a cultural hub for the Hot Springs community. In addition, the resort offers meeting and event spaces suitable for corporate gatherings, weddings, and private parties, complete with professional catering services and audio-visual equipment.
The resort’s location within Hot Springs National Park provides unique recreational opportunities that few gaming destinations can match. Guests can explore the historic Bathhouse Row, experience traditional thermal spring baths, or venture into the surrounding Ouachita Mountains for hiking and scenic drives. Meanwhile, nearby Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita offer world-class fishing, boating, and water sports that make Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort an ideal base for multi-day vacations. The property also provides convenient access to Hot Springs’ vibrant arts scene, antique shopping districts, and numerous golf courses that have made the city a beloved destination for leisure travelers throughout the South.
Plan Your Visit
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort operates year-round with varying schedules that reflect both the seasonal nature of live horse racing and the continuous operation of casino gaming. The live racing season typically runs from late January through early May, featuring afternoon post times and special evening racing events during major stakes weekends. However, simulcast wagering and full casino operations continue throughout the year, ensuring guests can always find gaming excitement regardless of the season. The property offers various promotional packages that combine hotel accommodations with gaming credits, dining vouchers, and special racing event access.
Transportation to Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is convenient via several options, with the property located just minutes from downtown Hot Springs and easily accessible from Interstate 30. Ample free parking is available on-site, including covered parking areas for hotel guests and VIP gaming members. As a result, many visitors combine their Oaklawn experience with exploration of Hot Springs’ numerous attractions, creating multi-day itineraries that showcase the best of Arkansas’s premier resort destination. The resort’s guest services team can assist with arranging transportation, booking local tours, and coordinating special event tickets to ensure every visit to Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort exceeds expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offer live horse racing year-round?
Live thoroughbred racing at Oaklawn runs seasonally from late January through early May, featuring afternoon racing and special evening programs during major stakes weekends. Simulcast wagering on races from tracks nationwide operates year-round, providing continuous horse racing action even when live racing is not in session.
What dining options are available at the resort?
The resort features multiple dining venues including Legends Steakhouse for upscale dining, The Finish Line Sports Bar & Grill for casual meals, Racing Club Restaurant with trackside views, and Roosters Sports Bar. Additional beverage options include Silks Lounge and Winners Circle Bar throughout the gaming areas.
Are there non-gaming activities available for hotel guests?
Yes, the resort’s location in Hot Springs National Park provides access to historic Bathhouse Row, thermal springs, hiking trails, and nearby lakes for water recreation. The property also features an entertainment venue with live performances and easy access to Hot Springs’ arts scene, shopping, and golf courses.
🎰 Gaming Floor
🏨 Hotel & Amenities
🍽️ Dining at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Track-themed sports bar and grill offering classic American fare with prime views of the horse racing action. Features multiple big-screen TVs, signature burgers, wings, and race-day specials that pair perfectly with the excitement of live thoroughbred racing. The atmosphere buzzes with energy during racing season, making it a favorite gathering spot for racing fans and casual diners alike.
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Upscale steakhouse featuring prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood in an elegant setting adorned with racing memorabilia. Known for their dry-aged steaks, lobster tail, and extensive wine selection that celebrates both local Arkansas wines and premium bottles from renowned regions. The restaurant honors Oaklawn's rich racing heritage while delivering a sophisticated dining experience.
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Lively sports bar featuring comfort food favorites, cold beer, and wall-to-wall sports coverage on numerous screens. Popular for their loaded nachos, chicken tenders, and game-day specials that keep guests fueled during long gaming sessions. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for catching the latest games while enjoying affordable eats and drinks.
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All-you-can-eat buffet featuring Southern comfort food and American classics with seasonal rotating selections. Offers everything from fried chicken and barbecue to fresh salads and homemade desserts, providing hearty options for racing fans and casino guests. The buffet format allows guests to fuel up quickly between races and gaming sessions.
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Intimate cocktail lounge with a racing theme, featuring craft cocktails named after famous thoroughbreds and jockeys. The sophisticated atmosphere includes leather seating, dark wood accents, and racing artwork, creating the perfect spot for after-dinner drinks or celebrating big wins. Live music on select evenings adds to the refined ambiance.
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High-energy bar located near the gaming floor, known for its celebratory atmosphere and signature cocktails that toast to racing victories. Features live entertainment on race days and weekends, with DJs spinning a mix of classic rock, country, and contemporary hits. The circular bar design encourages socializing and creates a festive environment for both racing fans and casino guests.
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