A day at the Track (Arlington Park)

Arlington Park, or Arlington Racetrack, is a great place to spend an afternoon. A day out in the sun watching horse races is something I can remember doing as a kid with my parents. Now it’s something I enjoy doing with my family, we watch the horses, place a few small ($2) bets, and enjoy the relaxing day.

My daughter (right) is 2 1/2 years old and loves the horses. She hears the trumpet sound and we go running off to watch the horses come out onto the track. We then move over and get a spot at the finish line so we can get the perfect view of the horses at the end of the race. Then naturally we must move back and watch the horses as they make their way off the track. Her natural obsession with horses is amazing and highly entertaining.

The Track

Sometimes photos can say a thousand words, lets hope they can convey the atmosphere of Arlington Park.

Arlington Park Details

Some details you may need to know.

Food at the track

Be prepared for some expensive prices for the food at the track, that is be prepared by bringing a picnic lunch. Yes the track will allow you to bring in a small cooler with food. Basically if you purchase it at the grocery store you can bring it in, but don’t try to bring in commercially prepared food like a pizza or fast food. This can easily save you $15 a person as a burger, fries (or chips), and a drink will cost you at least this amount.

From the Track’s Website:

Small coolers containing unopened plastic bottled non-alcoholic beverages and individually wrapped food items. These coolers are only permitted in the picnic area to the east of the building or on the apron level outside the building. Coolers with outside food or beverages will not be permitted to be consumed inside our building or in our reserved seating areas.

Between being able to bring your own lunch, free parking, and children getting in for free this can be an inexpensive day out for the family.

You can find out details about the track including race schedules, pricing information and more at the Arlington Park website.