Hot Springs may be known for beautiful outdoors, thermal baths and wacky events such as the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, but Spa City is also home to Oaklawn, one of the last family-owned racetracks in the country and the only thoroughbred racetrack in Arkansas.

As one of the largest tourist destinations in the state, Oaklawn draws in more than 3 million visitors each year, generating more than $28 million annually in direct taxes for the state, city and Garland County. Those visitors will begin hitting town in December with the start of another season of live racing.

“With a 120-year history, a passionate fan base and a reputation for producing champions, including Kentucky Derby and Oaks contenders, Oaklawn stands apart,” said Chris Ho, Oaklawn’s vice president of marketing.

The upcoming season’s purse distribution will exceed $60 million. Signature stakes races include the Arkansas Derby, the Rebel Stakes, the Oaklawn Handicap and the Apple Blossom Handicap. The signature races continue to attract top talent from across the country. These days, of course, Oaklawn has much more than thoroughbred racing to offer.

“Oaklawn has consistently grown with the times, offering not only world-class thoroughbred racing, but also a full-service casino, Forbes-recommended luxury hotel, Arkansas’ only Forbes-four-star-rated spa, award-winning restaurants and an event center, making it a premier year-round destination,” Ho said.

Last season, Oaklawn hosted some of the biggest names in thoroughbred racing. Highlights included Thorpedo Anna’s victory in the Fantasy Stakes and journey to the winner’s circle at the 150th running of the Kentucky Oaks and Arkansas-owned Mystik Dan’s triumph in the Southwest Stakes before he went on to win the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.

“The season is always filled with thrilling moments. It is a testament to our program that our contenders consistently achieve success throughout the racing year,” Ho said.

On Dec. 6, the track will officially open, and millions of patrons are expected to make their way to the track throughout the season.

“Oaklawn’s 121st season is just weeks away, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with our fans from across the world,” said Louis Cella, Oaklawn president and the great-grandson and great-grandnephew of Oaklawn co-founders and brothers Louis and Charles Cella, respectively. “Year after year, Oaklawn’s racing program excels, and this season is no exception. With over 100 trainers, 17 new outfits, world-class equine athletes, close to $1 million in daily purses, and a renovated outdoor area with expanded gift shop and concessions, there will be no better place to watch the most distinguished sport in American history. It’s going to be another great time to be part of Oaklawn’s history, and we can’t wait to welcome back the best racing fans in America.”

Ho said opening day will provide an exhilarating start to Oaklawn’s racing season by offering a full day of racing, live entertainment and a vibrant, festive atmosphere. Those who have not yet visited Oaklawn can expect an electrifying environment with thrilling, top-tier racing, live betting and stunning trackside views, he added.

“Fans can look forward to world-class competition, exciting on-site promotions and the electric energy that comes with being at one of the nation’s most iconic tracks,” he said.

Race winners at Oaklawn have gone on to win notable races such as the Kentucky Derby.

Gates will open at 11 a.m., and the first post for the nine-race program is set for 12:30 p.m. Ho recommended visitors come on Dec. 7 for the track special, which includes Oaklawn’s world-famous corned beef sandwiches and a drink for $1.

“Oaklawn also offers excellent fine dining options, lively bars, and live entertainment during and after the races,” Ho said. “Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer, Oaklawn guarantees an unforgettable day of excitement and fun. Guests often come for the races but stay for the environment.”

Oaklawn offers a unique resort experience, Ho said, and visitors can enjoy 24/7 smoke-free casino gaming, luxury accommodations, fine dining and the Astral Spa. Live entertainment and seasonal events also make Oaklawn a premier destination all year long, regardless of whether it is racing season.

A day at the races is just part of the allure at Oaklawn, which also offers casino gaming, an event center, the Astral Spa and acclaimed restaurants.

“As the state’s only casino resort, we are proud to provide our visitors with the full entertainment destination package,” Cella said. “The excitement of Oaklawn’s non-smoking casino, an elevated culinary experience at the OAK room & bar and The Bugler, casual fare at one of our many restaurants or concession stands, headliner entertainment in the multipurpose event center, ultimate relaxation at Astral Spa, or a stay in Oaklawn’s hotel — a new level of excellence awaits visitors of all ages.”

This year, Oaklawn’s schedule of 57 race stakes offers purses totaling $17.65 million. The track continues to offer four qualifying Kentucky Derby points races: Smarty Jones, Southwest, Rebel and the Arkansas Derby. Other races that have produced numerous champions include the Fantasy Stakes, the Apple Blossom Handicap, the Oaklawn Handicap and the Count Fleet Sprint Handicap.

THE HISTORY OF OAKLAWN

Oaklawn Jockey Club was built in 1904 and designed by Chicago-based Zachary Taylor Davis, the renowned architect who went on to build the iconic Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, a decade later. Oaklawn Park officially opened on Feb. 15, 1905, and became the only surviving racetrack in the area by 1907.

Oaklawn’s facilities have been regularly improved and expanded, serving a greater number of patrons and accommodating changes in the business. In 1992, Oaklawn unveiled a large mural on the facility’s front facade, the largest handcrafted artwork at any thoroughbred racetrack in the country. In the 2000s, electronic gaming was expanding at a fast rate, and more space was needed. Oaklawn converted an area previously dedicated to live racing on the lower level at the south end of the facility, now a self-contained electronic gaming area with its own restaurant.

The original owners of the park included John Condon and Dan Stuart. Brothers Louis and Charles Cella of St. Louis were among the founding partners. The Cella family already operated several racetracks in the Midwest. After the meets in 1906 and 1907, anti-gambling reform took hold in the state, leaving the track closed until 1916. Upon its reopening, the original owners had both died, leaving the Cella brothers in control of Oaklawn. After Louis’ death in 1918, Charles Cella became Oaklawn’s owner. Today, the track remains in the Cella family.

The Oaklawn Foundation, established in 2006 as an independent entity benefitting health and education programs in the community, has also distributed more than $14 million since its inception.

Races can now be live streamed through the OaklawnAnywhere app, which is exclusive to Arkansas residents. The app provides past performances, expert analysis and seamless wagering ideal for those enjoying the action from their box seat at the track or at home.

Race-day selections are available on Oaklawn’s website or during the pre-race show, Oaklawn Today, at the track.

“Our experts also provide live pre-race analysis while horses are in the paddock, helping both seasoned bettors and newcomers make informed wagers with expert insights and analysis,” Ho said.

For those who are not yet aficionados when it comes to horse racing, there are several things to consider when wagering. Ho recommended those new to the sport begin with simple wagers such as win, place or show and noted that it takes time to become familiar with a race program.

“Pay attention to key information such as jockey and trainer stats, as well as recent performances,” he said. “Betting is a learning experience, and Oaklawn’s staff is always ready to help guide newcomers.”

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