Horse racing has always been a popular sport in Canada. With a history dating back to the early 1800s, horse racing has become an integral part of Canadian culture. Canadian raceways are known for their breathtaking views, top-notch facilities, and thrilling races. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or a newbie, the following guide will help you discover the top 10 Canadian raceways you must visit.
How Canadians Watch and Wager on the Races Today
Horse racing in Canada has evolved far beyond grandstands and paddocks. While many fans still love the atmosphere of live race days, a growing number now follow races online and place bets through regulated platforms or directly through track-affiliated sites.
Top tracks like Woodbine and Century Mile – many of which we cover below – offer simulcast racing and allow online purse betting across Canada. Whether you’re watching from home, on your phone, or at an off-track betting lounge, it’s easier than ever to engage with Canadian horse racing in real time.
Live streams, digital race programs, and instant wagering tools are now standard at most major venues. This means you don’t have to be at the track to be part of the action – you can place bets legally and securely from anywhere in the country.
Canadian Top Raceways Compared
To help you choose where to go next, here’s a quick comparison of the top raceways across the country, including track types, race seasons, and signature events.
| Raceway | Location | Race Type | Track Type | Racing Season | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woodbine Racetrack | Etobicoke, ON | Thoroughbred | Tapeta + Turf (1.5 mi) | Apr–Dec | King’s Plate |
| Fort Erie | Fort Erie, ON | Thoroughbred | Dirt (1 mi) | May–Oct | Prince of Wales Stakes |
| Century Downs | Calgary, AB | Harness | Dirt (5/8 mi) | Mar–Nov | Alberta Sires Stakes |
| Assiniboia Downs | Winnipeg, MB | Thoroughbred | Dirt (6 furlongs) | May–Sept | Manitoba Derby |
| Fraser Downs | Surrey, BC | Harness | Dirt (5/8 mi) | Oct–May | Cloverdale Classic |
| Century Mile | Edmonton, AB | Thoroughbred | Dirt (1 mi) | Apr–Nov | Canadian Derby |
| Rideau Carleton | Ottawa, ON | Harness | Dirt (5/8 mi) | Year-round | Regular race nights |
| Dresden Raceway | Dresden, ON | Harness | Dirt (1/2 mi) | May–Sept | Race the Day |
| Hippodrome 3R | Trois-Rivières, QC | Harness | Dirt (5/8 mi) | May–Nov | Québec-Bred Series |
| Grand River | Elora, ON | Harness | Dirt (1/2 mi) | Jun–Sept | Industry Day |
1. Woodbine Racetrack
| Address: | 555 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 5L2 |
| Phone number: | +1 416-675-7223 |
| Website: | https://woodbine.com/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/q8jzWtnqg3iD17mLA |
Woodbine Racetrack is Canada’s largest and most iconic racetrack, hosting over 130 live race days per year and offering more than $100 million in annual purses. Located just north of Toronto’s Pearson Airport, it features two racing surfaces: a Tapeta synthetic track for thoroughbreds and a turf course that measures 1.5 miles – the longest in North America. Major events include the King’s Plate, first run in 1860, making it the oldest continuously run stakes race in North America.
2. Fort Erie Race Track
| Address: | 230 Catherine St, Fort Erie, ON L2A 5N9 |
| Phone number: | +1 905-871-3200 |
| Website: | https://www.forterieracing.com/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/3Zq5U6PzU6rwRftG6 |
Fort Erie Race Track, opened in 1897, is one of Canada’s oldest thoroughbred racing venues. Located near the U.S. border in Ontario, it operates a 1-mile dirt oval and typically runs races from May to October. The track is best known for hosting the Prince of Wales Stakes, the second leg of the Canadian Triple Crown. With scenic views of the Niagara River and a laid-back environment, Fort Erie welcomes around 2,000 fans on major race days. Free admission and twilight racing events make it a favourite for casual visitors and seasoned bettors alike.
3. Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
| Address: | 260 Century Downs Dr, Rocky View County, AB T4A 0V5 |
| Phone: | +1 587-349-7777 |
| Website: | https://www.cnty.com/centurydowns |
| Map: |
Century Downs is a premier harness racing venue located just north of Calgary in Rocky View County, Alberta. Opened in 2015, the track features a 5/8-mile dirt oval and typically runs live racing from March through November. The marquee event is the Alberta Sires Stakes, which highlights top young standardbreds from across the province. As part of the Century Casinos group, the facility also includes a modern casino, restaurants, and simulcast wagering. With scenic views and a welcoming crowd, Century Downs continues to grow its reputation as a must-visit track in western Canada.
4. Assiniboia Downs
| Address: | 3975 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3K 2E9 |
| Phone number: | +1 204-885-3330 |
| Website: | https://www.assiniboiadowns.com/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/U4sVgtPXfHxj7VnT8 |
Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Assiniboia Downs has been hosting thoroughbred races since 1958. It features a 6-furlong (¾ mile) dirt track, with live racing held from late May through September, mostly on Monday to Wednesday evenings. The marquee event is the Manitoba Derby, drawing large crowds and national attention every August. The venue also includes a full-service restaurant, off-track betting lounge, and simulcast wagering. In 2023, average daily handle exceeded $100,000, showing strong local engagement.
5. Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino
| Address: | 17755 60 Ave, Surrey, BC V3S 1V3 |
| Phone number: | +1 604-576-9141 |
| Website: | https://www.fraserdowns.com/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/8T8T9XG1dPPZKvrRA |
Fraser Downs, located in Surrey, British Columbia, is a hub for harness racing in western Canada. The 5/8-mile oval hosts a winter-season meet from October to May, with races typically held on weekends. Operated by Great Canadian Entertainment, Fraser Downs is part of the Elements Casino complex, offering live entertainment, slot machines, and dining options. Signature race days include the Cloverdale Classic and holiday-themed events that attract families and long-time race fans alike.
6. Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
| Address: | 4711 Airport Perimeter Rd, Edmonton, AB T9E 0V6 |
| Phone number: | +1 587-416-6453 |
| Website: | https://www.cnty.com/edmonton |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/3FxK8xvzgZ54PmbY9 |
Century Mile Racetrack and Casino is a new addition to the Canadian horse racing scene, having opened in 2019. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, this raceway features a 1-mile oval track and offers a variety of dining options and betting opportunities for fans. With a state-of-the-art facility and top-class amenities, Century Mile Racetrack and Casino is quickly becoming a popular destination for horse racing fans.
7. Rideau Carleton Raceway
| Address: | 4837 Albion Rd, Gloucester, ON K1X 1A3 |
| Phone number: | +1 613-822-2211 |
| Website: | https://rcr.net/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/HhR8RcxZQ2SaZB9X7 |
Rideau Carleton Raceway is located in Ottawa, Ontario, and is known for its exciting races and lively atmosphere. This raceway features a 5/8-mile oval track and offers a variety of dining options and betting opportunities for fans. With live music and entertainment on race days, Rideau Carleton Raceway is a great destination for a fun day out.
8.Dresden Raceway
| Address: | 255 Park St, Dresden, ON N0P 1M0 |
| Phone number: | +1 519-683-4771 |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/dJCCnUxbV7s8ZLsQA |
Dresden Raceway is a popular horse racing track located in the town of Dresden, Ontario. The raceway is a favorite among horse racing enthusiasts due to its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere. The track has been in operation since 1888, making it one of the oldest and most historic raceways in Canada.
The track features a 1/2-mile oval dirt track and offers a variety of betting options for fans. The track is well-maintained and offers excellent viewing opportunities for spectators. Dresden Raceway also boasts a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and a snack bar.
One of the unique features of Dresden Raceway is its “Race the Day” program, which allows fans to experience a day in the life of a harness racing horse owner. The program includes a tour of the stables, a meet-and-greet with the horses, and a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day operations of the track.
Fans of Dresden Raceway rave about its small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. The track also offers a variety of promotions and special events throughout the season, including live music, giveaways, and more.
Dresden Raceway typically holds races throughout the summer months, from May to September. Races are usually held on Sundays, with some exceptions for special events and holidays.
If you’re interested in attending a race at Dresden Raceway, you can check the track’s website or social media pages for a schedule of upcoming races. The schedule will include the date and time of each race, as well as any special events or promotions that may be taking place.
In addition to attending races as a spectator, you can also enter your horse to compete at Dresden Raceway. The track accepts entries for each race in advance, and horses must meet certain eligibility requirements to compete. Entry fees and other rules and regulations may apply, so it’s important to check with the track for more information if you’re interested in entering your horse to race.
Overall, Dresden Raceway is a must-visit destination for any horse racing fan. Its historic charm, beautiful surroundings, and friendly atmosphere make it a favorite among fans of all ages. So why not plan a trip to Dresden Raceway today and experience the thrill of harness racing at one of Canada’s top raceways?
9. Hippodrome 3R
| Address: | 4380 Chemin des Dalles, Trois-Rivières, QC G8Y 4W2 |
| Phone number: | +1 819-376-4811 |
| Website: | https://www.hippodrome3r.ca/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/gPUmCQXGmWmTqfncA |
Hippodrome 3R is located in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, and is known for its exciting races and beautiful surroundings. This raceway features a 5/8-mile oval track and offers a variety of dining options and betting opportunities for fans. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of events throughout the season, Hippodrome 3R is a great destination for anyone looking for a fun day out with family and friends.
10. Grand River Raceway
| Address: | 7445 Wellington County Rd 21, Elora, ON N0B 1S0 |
| Phone number: | +1 519-846-5455 |
| Website: | https://grandriverraceway.com/ |
| Map: | https://goo.gl/maps/FwJjBVP84exRUazP9 |
Grand River Raceway is located in Elora, Ontario, and is known for its beautiful scenery and exciting races. This raceway features a 1/2-mile oval track and offers a variety of dining options and betting opportunities for fans. With a dedicated fan base and a variety of events throughout the season, Grand River Raceway is a great destination for anyone looking for a fun day out at the races.
Our Experts Say
“From multimillion-dollar Grade I races at Woodbine to grassroots harness meets in rural Ontario, Canadian raceways offer something for every fan. Many tracks now livestream races, host concerts, or feature simulcast wagering with U.S. tracks. With over $200 million wagered annually in Canada on horse racing, the sport continues to grow. Plan your visit during peak months – June to September – when tracks are most active and special events are in full swing.”
FAQs
The best time to visit a Canadian raceway depends on the race season of the particular raceway. Most Canadian raceways hold races during the summer months, so that is a good time to plan your visit.
Each raceway may have its own age restrictions, so it is best to check with the particular raceway before planning your visit. Some raceways may allow minors to attend if they are accompanied by an adult.
There is no dress code for attending a Canadian raceway, but many racegoers choose to dress up for the occasion. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as there is usually a lot of walking involved.
Yes, most Canadian raceways offer betting opportunities for fans. You can place bets on the races either in person or online, depending on the particular raceway.
Many Canadian raceways offer special events and promotions throughout the season. Some raceways may offer live music or entertainment on race days, while others may offer special discounts or giveaways. Check the particular raceway’s website or social media pages for information on upcoming events and promotions.
Each raceway may have its own policy on outside food and drinks, so it is best to check with the particular raceway before planning your visit. Some raceways may allow outside food and drinks, while others may have restrictions.
Yes, most Canadian raceways offer parking facilities for fans. Some raceways may charge for parking, while others may offer free parking. Check the particular raceway’s website or social media pages for information on parking facilities and fees.
Yes, many Canadian raceways are located near hotels and other accommodations. Check the particular raceway’s website or social media pages for information on nearby accommodations and recommended places to stay.
The admission fee for attending a Canadian raceway may vary depending on the particular raceway and the day of the race. Some raceways may offer free admission, while others may charge a fee. Check the particular raceway’s website or social media pages for information on admission fees.
Each raceway may have its own policy on photography and video recording, so it is best to check with the particular raceway before planning your visit. Some raceways may allow photography and video recording for personal use, while others may have restrictions.