Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino — Gaming Floor

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino stands as Iowa’s most visited gaming destination and a cornerstone of the Des Moines metropolitan entertainment scene. Since opening in 1989, this Altoona landmark has evolved from a simple racetrack into a comprehensive gaming and entertainment complex that attracts over three million visitors annually. The facility operates as a not-for-profit entity owned by Polk County, returning millions of dollars each year to local charities, governments, and educational programs—a unique structure that sets it apart from other Iowa casinos.

The expansive 69,000-square-foot gaming floor houses 1,750 slot machines ranging from penny slots to high-denomination video poker and progressive jackpot games. Furthermore, the casino features 47 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat, with limits accommodating both casual players and high rollers. The dedicated poker room operates daily cash games with stakes ranging from $1/$2 no-limit hold’em to higher-stakes mixed games, while tournament action runs throughout the week including popular weekend series. A sophisticated high-limit gaming salon provides premium players with exclusive machines, table games, and personalized host services in an upscale environment.

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino established itself as a premier sportsbook destination following Iowa’s legalization of sports betting in 2019. The state-licensed Prairie Meadows Sportsbook features a dedicated lounge with multiple large-screen displays, comfortable seating arrangements, and full cocktail service. Local teams including the Iowa Hawkeyes, Iowa State Cyclones, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, and Kansas City Chiefs generate significant wagering volume, while the sportsbook covers all major professional and college sports nationwide.

Hotel & Accommodations

The property’s 204-room hotel tower provides comfortable three-star accommodations designed for both leisure and business travelers. Guest rooms feature modern amenities including flat-screen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workstations, while suites offer separate living areas and upgraded furnishings. However, the real appeal lies in the convenience of staying on-site, with direct access to the gaming floor, dining venues, and entertainment facilities. The hotel’s seasonal outdoor pool area provides a relaxing retreat during warmer months, complete with lounge seating and poolside service.

Prairie Meadows offers competitive package deals combining hotel stays with dining credits, gaming promotions, and event tickets. The Prairie Rewards loyalty program provides additional benefits for hotel guests, including room upgrade opportunities, complimentary amenities, and expedited check-in services. Corporate travelers appreciate the property’s meeting facilities and proximity to Des Moines International Airport, making it a practical choice for business conferences and group events.

Dining & Nightlife

Dining options at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino cater to diverse tastes and occasions across three primary venues. Terrace Grill serves upscale American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere overlooking the racetrack, featuring steaks, seafood, and seasonal specialties prepared by experienced culinary teams. The Backstretch Sports Bar combines casual dining with sports viewing, offering burgers, wings, sandwiches, and game-day favorites alongside an extensive beer and cocktail selection. Sunrise Café provides quick-service options including coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals for guests preferring grab-and-go convenience.

The Bar at Prairie Meadows serves as the property’s primary nightlife destination, featuring craft cocktails, premium spirits, and local beer selections in a sophisticated lounge environment. Live entertainment frequently includes local musicians and touring acts, creating an energetic atmosphere for evening socializing. Notably, the venue transforms during major sporting events, becoming a spirited gathering place for fans watching games on multiple high-definition screens while enjoying drink specials and bar food.

Amenities & Entertainment

The Prairie Meadows Event Center anchors the property’s entertainment offerings with a 1,200-seat venue that hosts major concerts, comedy shows, and special events throughout the year. Past performers have included nationally recognized recording artists, stand-up comedians, and tribute bands, making it a significant entertainment destination for central Iowa. The facility’s intimate setting provides excellent sightlines and acoustics, creating memorable experiences for attendees while supporting the venue’s reputation as one of the region’s premier entertainment destinations.

Live horse racing remains a cornerstone attraction at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, with thoroughbred and quarter horse racing running from spring through fall. The racing season typically features over 70 live racing days, including signature events like the Iowa Derby and Iowa Oaks that attract regional and national attention. Meanwhile, year-round simulcast wagering allows guests to bet on races from tracks across North America, with dedicated viewing areas equipped with individual betting terminals and racing publications.

The Prairie Rewards loyalty program enhances the guest experience by offering tier-based benefits including comp dollars, dining discounts, hotel rate reductions, and exclusive event invitations. Members earn points through gaming activity, dining purchases, and hotel stays, with higher tiers unlocking premium perks like dedicated customer service lines and VIP event access. In addition, the program frequently features special promotions, drawings, and tournaments exclusively for members.

Plan Your Visit

Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino operates 24 hours daily, seven days a week, with a minimum age requirement of 21 for all gaming areas. The property provides ample free parking in surface lots surrounding the facility, with covered parking available near the main entrance. Smoking is permitted in designated areas throughout the casino floor, while non-smoking sections accommodate guests preferring smoke-free environments. The casino accepts major credit cards, offers ATM services, and provides check-cashing facilities for registered players.

Located at 1 Prairie Meadows Drive in Altoona, the casino sits just minutes east of downtown Des Moines via Interstate 80, making it easily accessible for visitors throughout central Iowa and beyond. As one of the premier casinos in Altoona, Prairie Meadows offers shuttle service from select Des Moines hotels during peak periods and maintains partnerships with ride-sharing services for convenient transportation. The property’s central Iowa location provides easy access to additional attractions including Adventureland Park, Bass Pro Shops, and downtown Des Moines cultural and business districts.

Guests planning extended visits should consider joining Prairie Rewards before their first trip to maximize benefits and promotional opportunities. The casino’s website and mobile app provide current information on dining specials, entertainment schedules, and gaming promotions, while social media channels offer real-time updates on events and exclusive offers for followers.

Frequently Asked Questions