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Horse race tracks in Massachusetts

On this MABetting.com exclusive featured page, you will learn everything you need to know about horse race tracks in Massachusetts, including how many there are, where they are located, the current legal status of horse race betting in MA, and much more.

Johnny Covers By: Johnny Covers
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With a rich history in horse racing, the landscape has taken a hit over the years resulting in a currently limited scene. Once home to some of the most notable horse racing tracks in the Northeast, such as Suffolk Downs in East Boston, diminishing crowds and a lack of funding have caused Suffolk (and others) to close down over the years.

Even still, fans of horse racing in MA do have an option when it comes to in-person horse race tracks, and no shortage of options when it comes to betting on horse racing online. Today at MABetting.com, let’s dive into everything you need to know about Horse race tracks in Massachusetts.

Horse race tracks in Massachusetts


Currently, there is just one active horse race track in Massachusetts, the Plainridge Park Casino & Raceway. Located in Plainville, MA, Plainridge Park focuses on harness racing and also offers its patrons a casino with slot machines and electronic racing games.

Hosting regular harness racing events throughout the year, Plainridge Park Casino and Raceway is Massachusetts' only connection to the state’s rich horse racing traditions. Offering bettors and spectators alike entertainment and action throughout the spring, summer, and fall, Plainridge Park is a must-stop for any horse racing enthusiasts in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Race Track

Address

Plainridge Park Casino & Raceway

301 Washington St, Plainville, MA 02762

Is horse race betting legally allowed in Massachusetts?

Yes, horse racing betting is legally allowed in Massachusetts, and the state has a rich history when it comes to the industry. Though they don’t have any active remaining thoroughbred tracks in the state, bettors can visit Plainridge Park Casino and Raceway to get down on the action via harness races.

Also, Massachusetts legally allows online betting on horse races through multiple regulated and licensed platforms such as TVG, TwinSpires, and BetAmerica. Both in-person and online horse race betting in MA is monitored and regulated by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) which also oversees the state’s three licensed casinos.

How to wager at a Massachusetts race track

If you are new to horse race tracks in Massachusetts or have never placed a bet at one, we here at MABetting.com have you covered with all the steps required to get in on the action. Let’s take a closer look at how to wager at a Massachusetts race track.

  1. Locate Betting Kiosks: When you get to Plainridge Park Casino & Raceway, the first thing you will want to do is locate the betting kiosks near the track. There will be some tellers taking action, as well, but using the self-serving kiosks is as simple as a few easy steps, covered below.
  2. Research Your Bet: There are a few different ways to research your bets for wagering at horse race tracks in Massachusetts, including picking up a betting book directly from the race track. This will include information on the day’s races such as jockey history, and horse results from the past, as well as provide picks from professional handicappers. Additionally, there are plenty of resources online when it comes to horse racing handicapping.
  3. Use Cash: As with all in-person wagering, only cash is accepted when it comes to making a wager at a Massachusetts race track.
  4. Place Your Bet: As you approach the betting kiosk, make sure to have ready the race number, horse posting number, and the type of bet (straight, show, place, etc.) that you want to place. Once at the machine, insert your cash and follow the instructions on the touch screen, which are intuitive all the way to completion. Lastly, enter the amount you want to risk and confirm your bet. From here, a ticket will print out with your betting information on it, which you will need to hold on to in order to redeem for cash.
  5. Collect Your Winnings: If your ticket ends up being a winner, which you can insert in the machine once your race ends to determine, it’s time to collect your winnings. Once you insert your winning ticket, the kiosk will return a printed voucher, which you must take to a race track teller in order to redeem for cash.

What to keep in mind when betting at a race track in Massachusetts

Whether it is your first time betting at a race track in Massachusetts or it’s been a while, there are some key things to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at what to keep in mind when betting at a race track in Massachusetts.

  • Bet Types: There are a plethora of bet types when it comes to placing a bet at a race track in Massachusetts, ranging from straight bets to exotics. For straight bets, you can bet on which horse will win (win), come in first or second (place), or come in first through third (place). Exotic bets require you to pick the sequence of horse finishes, with payouts going higher the more you accurately select.
  • Track Conditions: Different horses perform better or worse depending on the conditions of the track that day, so it’s important to know the conditions and correlated statistics before placing your bet.
  • Race’s Available: All of the day’s races will be posted on a digital board at the race track in Massachusetts, so make sure you are aware of when each starts that you want to get involved in.
  • Research Available: There is no shortage of resources available when it comes to ways to research your bets when at horse race tracks in Massachusetts. These include tip sheets available for purchase, as well as potentially on-site handicappers to confer with.
  • Cash Only: As with all horse race tracks throughout the country, horse race tracks in Massachusetts only allow you to wager with cold hard cash.

FAQ

Is there sports betting at Massachusetts horse race tracks?

While there is no sports betting directly at Massachusetts horse race tracks, Plainridge Park Casino, where the only horse race track in the state is located, does have a sportsbook. Additionally, patrons at Massachusetts horse race tracks can always place a sports bet via one of the state’s licensed online sportsbook apps.

Are there any dining options at Massachusetts race tracks?

Yes, there are dining options at Massachusetts’ only race track, Plainridge Park Casino & Raceway. For those looking for a sit-down dinner Slack’s Oyster House & Grill is their best bet. For more of a sports bar vibe, visitors should check out Flutie’s Sports Pub. Lastly, The Loft provides a casual dining option with various meals ranging from salads to desserts.

What is the minimum age for betting on horse races in Massachusetts?

The minimum age for betting on horse races in Massachusetts is 18 years of age or older.

Are there any responsible gambling resources available at race tracks in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are a number of responsible gambling resources available at race tracks in Massachusetts including self-exclusion programs, information and helplines, referrals to support services, and deposit and time limit offerings.

Are there any handicapping resources for bettors at Massachusetts race tracks?

Yes, Plainridge Park Casino & Raceway offers a number of handicapping resources for bettors at Massachusetts race tracks. These include everything from racing forums and programs, tip sheets with expert picks, simulcast broadcasts, on-site handicappers, and online handicapping tools provided by licensed horse race betting services such as TwinSpires or TVG.

Author Details

Johnny Covers

Johnny Covers

Johnny Covers, known for his expertise in sports betting, serves as an author and analyst at MA Betting. With nearly ten years of experience in the field, he is recognized for his adeptness in handicapping. Johnny's comprehensive analyses have been showcased across numerous leading sports and betting platforms.