Delta Downs Racetrack
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel in Vinton, Louisiana, near the Texas border, is an entertainment venue that includes exciting horse racing with top-tier casino gaming and hospitality. Since it opened in 1973, it has become a favorite for racing lovers and casual visitors.
Location and History
Delta Downs is in a convenient location for visitors from Louisiana and East Texas. The track was founded by Lee Berwick, a well known advocate for Quarter Horse racing. Over the decades, Delta Downs has grown tremendously, adding Thoroughbred racing, casino gaming, and hotel accommodations to its offerings. It is now owned and operated by Boyd Gaming, a major player in the entertainment industry.
Delta Downs Racetrack Information
The main track at Delta Downs is a 3/4 mile (1.20 km), six-furlong dirt oval with two extra chutes including a 1 1/16-mile (1.70 km) chute for longer races and a five-furlong chute for shorter sprints.
The track surface consists of a mixture of sand sourced from the nearby Sabine River and clay, laid over a limestone base. This layout creates excellent durability and performance for horse racing. The track’s stretch is 660 feet long, with a width of 80 feet in the straightaway and 70 feet on the backstretch and turns. The banking of the track rises to 10% on turns and 5% on the straights, which gives horses the opportunity for high-speed racing and smooth transitions.
Track Conditions
Delta Downs’ dirt surface is praised for its reliability under normal conditions. However, like most dirt tracks, it can get pretty muddy or sloppy in wet weather, which adds a deeper element of strategy for trainers and jockeys.
Types of Racing
Delta Downs is unique because it hosts both Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing. Thoroughbred racing is held from mid-October to mid-March, with live racing on Wednesdays through Saturdays. Quarter horse racing runs from April to mid-July, showcasing one of the fastest-growing types of horse racing in the U.S.
Dining Options
Delta Downs has a variety of different dining experiences to suit every taste and budget including:
- Rosewater Grill & Tavern: A fine dining option featuring premium steaks and fresh seafood.
- Lookout Restaurant: A casual venue with hearty dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
- The Clubhouse: Combines dining with excellent views of the racetrack, perfect for race-day excitement.
Admission and Accessibility
Delta Downs normally offers free general admission, making it an affordable destination for visitors. However, premium seating at the clubhouse or grandstand may need a ticket, especially during popular racing events. There is a lot of on-site parking available, but there are some fees added to park in certain areas.
Notable Races and Events at Delta Downs Racetrack
Delta Downs hosts a few highly anticipated races that draw attention from across the horse racing world. The first being the Delta Jackpot Stakes (Grade III) which is a $1,000,000 race for 2-year-olds, one of the richest juvenile races in the U.S. The second is the Delta Princess Stakes (Grade III) which is A $500,000 race for 2-year-old fillies, showcasing future stars in the sport.
Betting and Simulcasting
Delta Downs offers a wide range of different betting options to enjoy, including Daily Double, Exacta, Pick 3, Quinella, Superfecta and Trifecta. When live racing is not in session, Delta Downs also has simulcast betting. Bettors can bet on races from other tracks across the U.S. for constant action year-round.
Beyond horse racing, Delta Downs also has a full-scale casino with over 1,600 slot machines and table games. The adjoining hotel offers 370 rooms, including 50 luxury suites for the convenience of their overnight guests. This makes Delta Downs a fantastic entertainment destination for racing fans and visitors.
Our Final Thoughts on Delta Downs Racetrack
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel will give you an exceptional combination of horse racing, gaming, and hospitality. From its versatile track configuration to its many dining options and pillar events, Delta Downs truly does offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a racing fan or visiting for the first time, this Louisiana landmark promises you an unforgettable experience.
Fascinators
Track Overview
