Aqueduct Race Track

We take a look at the Aqueduct Race Track, both a brief history, their great amenities as well as consider their future plans. Aqueduct has great restaurants, betting facilities and more.

Aqueduct Racetrack, Queens, New York City

In the heart of South Ozone Park, Queens, Aqueduct Racetrack stands as New York City’s sole thoroughbred racing venue, affectionately known as “The Big A.” Since it opened in 1894, Aqueduct has been a notable part of American horse racing, offering equestrian lovers thrilling races, rich history, and a unique urban racing experience.

Aqueduct’s Deep History

The name, “Aqueduct,” was inspired by its location on a property where a conduit of the Brooklyn Water Works once delivered water to New York City from the Hempstead Plain. In its early days, Aqueduct was a small facility, but quickly gained prominence. In 1895, Captain William Carter, a wealthy tugboat skipper, gave the track a significant amount of money to stage a major race, leading to the creation of the Carter Handicap, a race that still runs to this day.

The track underwent a massive transformation between 1956 and 1959, resulting in a grand reopening on September 14, 1959. This $34.5 million renovation even added a four-tier grandstand, designed by the renowned architectural firm Arthur Froehlich and Associates. The modernized facility featured 18 escalators, an elevator, and seating for 20,000 spectators, with an additional 14,000 accommodated in air-conditioned restaurants and lounges. The Associated Press praised it as “the world’s most modern and luxurious horse plant.”

Key Moments in Aqueduct’s History

Throughout its storied past, Aqueduct has been the venue for many memorable events:

• Belmont Stakes Venue: From 1963 to 1968, during the reconstruction of Belmont Park, Aqueduct hosted the prestigious Belmont Stakes, the final jewel of the Triple Crown.
• Secretariat’s Farewell: On November 6, 1973, the legendary Secretariat was retired at Aqueduct. Ridden by Ron Turcotte, Secretariat paraded before 30,000 fans, marking the end of an illustrious racing career.
• Papal Mass: On October 6, 1995, under a brilliant sun and cloudless sky, Pope John Paul II celebrated mass before a crowd of 75,000 at Aqueduct, showcasing the venue’s versatility beyond horse racing.

Aqueduct Race Track Information

Aqueduct Racetrack isn’t just a historic venue, it also provides an excellent racing experience for viewers and competitors. Spanning 210 acres, over and above the race tracks, there is also a stable area that accommodates 547 stalls across 14 barns, including receiving and pony barns, ensuring top-notch facilities for both horses and horsemen. Here’s everything you need to know about the track’s layout, surfaces, and key features. Aqueduct features a three-track system, making it one of the most versatile racing venues in the country:

• Main Track (Dirt): A one-mile (1.6 km) dirt oval that serves as the primary racing surface. This track hosts most of the major stakes races, including the Wood Memorial.
• Inner Turf Course: The seven-furlong (1.4 km) turf course designed for grass races during the warmer months. The turf layout challenges horses with its tighter turns.
• Outer Turf Course: A larger one-mile (1.6 km) grass course, often used for longer-distance turf races.

During winter, Aqueduct race track is unique because it is able to stay open for racing thanks to its winterized dirt surface, allowing for continued competition even in cold temperatures.

Grandstand & Seating

Aqueduct’s grandstand provides multiple levels of seating to accommodate over 30,000 people, including:

• General Admission: Open seating throughout the venue for casual racegoers.
• Clubhouse Seating: A more premium experience with better track views and access to exclusive dining areas.
• Luxury Suites:Available for private events and VIP guests, these suites offer an upscale way to enjoy the races with personal service and catering options.

The clubhouse and suites accommodate up to close to 14,000 seats which takes the total seating available on big race days over 40,000 in total.

The Wood Memorial Stakes Event

Aqueduct’s Wood Memorial Stakes has long been New York’s main preparation race for the Triple Crown. Eleven winners of the Wood Memorial have gone on to claim the Kentucky Derby. Notably, four Triple Crown winners. They were Seattle Slew in 1977, Assault in 1946, Count Fleet in 1943, and Gallant Fox in 1930 – also claimed victories in the Wood Memorial, cementing its status as a popular stepping stone for racing’s best.

Dining at Aqueduct Race Track

A day at Aqueduct Racetrack isn’t only filled with exciting horse races, it’s also a chance to enjoy some fantastic dining. One of the best parts of dining at Aqueduct is the distinct New York flavor infused into the experience. Whether you’re indulging in a deli-style sandwich, savoring a slice of pizza, or enjoying a gourmet meal with a view, the track’s food scene mirrors the city’s vibrant culinary culture. Aqueduct offers a variety of choices that will suit every member of the family.

Equestris Restaurant

For those who want to enjoy a premium dining experience, Equestris is the place to be. Located on the third floor of the clubhouse, this upscale restaurant offers you a panoramic view of the track,so you can enjoy your meal while watching the races unfold. You can indulge in a 3 ½-hour luxury buffet, non-alcoholic beverages, and receive a race day program.
Open bar packages are also available, making it a sought-after spot for both racing regulars and first time visitors. The menu features a mix of American and international cuisine, with high-quality ingredients and an impressive selection of wines and cocktails. Whether you’re indulging in a perfectly cooked steak or fresh seafood, Equestris adds a touch of sophistication to your race day experience.

Longshots Sports Bar

A state-of-the-art simulcasting center and sports bar, Longshots offers wall-to-wall TVs for watching horse racing and other sports, complemented by a food and drink menu. Located on the second floor, it operates each live race day, with food service available on weekends.

Quick Bites and Concessions

If you’re in the mood for something quick and convenient, Aqueduct has a range of different concession stands and finger food options. From classic New York-style hot dogs to pretzels, burgers, and sandwiches, these spots are perfect for quick bites between races. You can also find popular comfort foods like chicken tenders and fries, as well as healthier options like fresh salads and wraps.

Other Bars and Lounges

If you want to sip on a cocktail or grab a cold beer while enjoying the action, Aqueduct also has several bars and lounges throughout the facility. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Manhattan cocktail or a refreshing pint of beer, the bars at Aqueduct provide the perfect setting to relax, socialize, and even to celebrate your winning bets.

Sports Betting at Aqueduct

Aqueduct race track offers you a full range of betting options on the day, from traditional windows to self-service kiosks. You are able to place your bets on live races as well as simulcast events from tracks across the country. NYRA Bets, the official online betting platform of the New York Racing Association, even allows you to bet remotely. If you are after a bit more choice with less limitations however, you can also indulge in online betting online across multiple online sports betting sites.

Visitor Information

Aqueduct Racetrack strives to provide a welcoming environment for all guests:

• Accessibility: The racetrack is wheelchair accessible and offers accommodations for guests with disabilities.
• Admission: Entry to Aqueduct is always free, allowing everyone the opportunity to experience live racing without any barriers.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility so you can stay connected during your visit.
• Guest Services: Found on the second floor in Longshots Bar, the Guest Service Center offers you amenities like binocular rentals and coat checks. Additionally, there is also a NYRA Shop, where you can purchase officially licensed merchandise from Aqueduct and Belmont Park.

Getting to Aqueduct

Aqueduct Racetrack’s accessibility makes it a pretty convenient destination for both locals and tourists as it’s easily accessible via public transit, including the A train (Aqueduct Racetrack Station) and various bus routes:

• By Subway: Take the A train (Far Rockaway branch) to the Aqueduct/North Conduit Avenue station.
• Arriving By Bus:There are many bus lines to choose from, including the Q7, Q11, Q37, and Q41, which service the area, providing multiple options for public transportation.
• By Car: If you’re driving, Aqueduct offers free general parking, with clubhouse parking available for $10 (only credit/debit cards are accepted, no cash). The racetrack’s address is 110-00 Rockaway Boulevard, South Ozone Park, NY 11420.

Is the Aqueduct Race Track Closing?

It may well be closing. In 2007 the current then Governor Eliot Spitzer suggested the track and it’s 197 acres to be sold. Although that did not happen, the NYRA (New York Racing Association) did auction off 325,000 square feet and made an agreement with New York to stay open.

While in office during 2012 Governor Cuomo attempted to put together a deal to build a large convention center at Aqueduct but that deal was also canceled.

In 2022 the NYRA announced they would let their lease expire some time in 2026 after their expansion of the nearby Belmonte Park. See our review of Belmonte Park here. The current NY governor Kathy Hochul has pledged up to 455 million dollars in capital funds to help with renovations at Aqueduct. Time will tell whether the project will come to fruition in late 2026 or early 2027 once the current lease expires.

Final Thoughts

With Aqueduct’s well-maintained racing surface, comfortable seating options that caters to over 30,000 people, and modern betting facilities with numerous choices, Aqueduct Racetrack delivers an excellent experience for first time visitors and experienced horse racing bettors. Whether you’re there for the thrill of the races or the history of the sport, this iconic venue truly has something for everyone.

Not knowing the future of Aqueduct we can only hope a new management company will make a deal good for the state as well as the horse racing world. We hope the future of the track will continue with the same high quality the track has become known for.