What Belmont Park is and where to find it

Belmont Park is a thoroughbred horse racing track located in Elmont, New York, on Long Island, about 20 miles east of Manhattan. It opened in 1905 and is one of the three racetracks that make up the American Triple Crown — the other two are Churchill Downs in Kentucky and Pimlico in Maryland. Belmont Park hosts the Belmont Stakes, the final and longest race of the Triple Crown series, typically held in June each year.

The track sits on 430 acres and has a main racing surface that is 1.5 miles around — the longest of any American racetrack. The grandstand can hold roughly 33,000 people, though attendance varies by race day and season. The facility operates year-round with racing seasons that typically run from late April through mid-July and again from late August through November, though the exact schedule changes annually.

Key Takeaways

  • Belmont Park is located in Elmont, New York, and hosts the Belmont Stakes, the third race of the Triple Crown, usually in June.
  • The track's main racing surface is 1.5 miles around, making it the longest thoroughbred racing track in the United States.
  • Racing seasons run from late April through mid-July and again from late August through November, with the exact dates varying by year.
  • General admission tickets are typically available on race days, with prices ranging from about $5 to $15 depending on the day and seating area.
  • The track offers dining, betting windows, and viewing areas at different price points, from general admission to premium clubhouse seating.

Racing seasons and the Belmont Stakes

Belmont Park operates two main racing seasons each year. The spring-summer meet typically begins in late April and runs through mid-July. The fall meet usually starts in late August and continues through November. The exact opening and closing dates shift from year to year, so checking the official Belmont Park website or calling ahead is necessary if you plan to attend on a specific date.

The Belmont Stakes is the marquee event at the track and draws national attention. It is held on a Saturday in early to mid-June and is the third leg of the Triple Crown. The race is 1.5 miles long — the same distance as the track's full circumference — and is open only to three-year-old thoroughbreds. When a horse wins all three Triple Crown races in a single year, it becomes part of racing history; this has happened only 13 times since 1875.

Beyond the Belmont Stakes, the track hosts dozens of other races throughout each season. These include stakes races (high-purse events for top horses) and regular claiming races (where horses are entered at a set price and can be purchased by other owners). Most race days feature 8 to 10 races spread across the afternoon and early evening.

Admission, seating, and ticket options

General admission to Belmont Park on most race days costs between $5 and $15, depending on the day of the week and the significance of the races being run. Belmont Stakes day admission is higher and often sells out weeks in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the gate on race day or online through the track's official website.

The track offers several seating and viewing areas at different price points. General admission allows you to stand in the grandstand or sit in general seating areas. Clubhouse seating provides reserved chairs, better views, and access to clubhouse dining and bars; these tickets typically cost $25 to $100 or more depending on the race day. Premium boxes and suites are available for groups and cost significantly more.

Children under 12 are often admitted free or at a reduced rate on certain race days, though policies vary. Parking is available on-site for a fee, usually $10 to $15 per vehicle. Public transportation via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is also an option; the track has its own LIRR station, and round-trip tickets from Penn Station in Manhattan are typically $15 to $20.

Betting at Belmont Park

Betting is central to the racetrack experience. Belmont Park has betting windows throughout the grandstand and clubhouse where you can place bets on races. The most common bet types are win (picking the horse that finishes first), place (picking a horse that finishes first or second), and show (picking a horse that finishes in the top three). More complex bets like exactas (picking the top two finishers in order) and trifectas (picking the top three in order) offer higher payouts but lower odds of winning.

You must be at least 18 years old to place a bet. Betting windows accept cash and, at most windows, debit or credit cards. The track also offers off-track betting through its website and mobile app, allowing you to place bets from home on races at Belmont and other tracks. Minimum bets are typically $2.

Dining, amenities, and what to bring

Belmont Park has multiple dining options ranging from casual concessions to sit-down restaurants. General admission areas have food stands selling hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, and snacks. Clubhouse areas have full-service bars and restaurants with table service. Prices are typical for venue food — expect to pay $12 to $20 for a sandwich or entree and $5 to $8 for drinks.

The track allows you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages into general admission areas, though outside alcohol is not permitted. Binoculars are useful for viewing races from the grandstand, especially if you are sitting far from the finish line. The track can be very crowded on major race days, so arriving early (at least an hour before the first race) is advisable if you want good standing room or parking.

Weather can be a factor, particularly during the spring and fall meets. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sunny days, and a light jacket or rain gear for cooler or wet weather. The track is outdoors, so there is limited shelter beyond the grandstand roof.

Getting there and parking

Belmont Park is located at 2150 Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont, New York. By car from Manhattan, take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east and follow signs to the track; the drive is typically 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. Parking on-site costs $10 to $15 per vehicle and is available in multiple lots around the facility.

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers direct service to Belmont Park via the Belmont Park branch, which departs from Penn Station in Manhattan. The trip takes about 45 minutes, and round-trip fares are typically $15 to $20. LIRR service runs on race days only, so check the schedule before planning your trip. This option avoids parking fees and traffic but requires coordinating your arrival and departure with train schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best day to visit Belmont Park if I am new to horse racing?

A regular race day during the spring or fall meet is less crowded and less expensive than Belmont Stakes day, making it a good introduction. Arrive early, watch a few races from the grandstand, and ask betting window staff or other attendees to explain the different bet types. The atmosphere is relaxed enough to learn without feeling rushed.

Can I bring children to Belmont Park?

Yes. Children are welcome in general admission and clubhouse areas. Many children find the horses and racing exciting. Some race days offer reduced or free admission for children under 12. Check the track's website for specific family-friendly race days and any special programming.

Do I need to know about horses or racing to enjoy Belmont Park?

No. Many visitors come for the social experience, the food, and the atmosphere rather than to bet or understand racing deeply. You can watch the races, enjoy the grounds, and participate at whatever level interests you. Betting is optional, and the track is entertaining even if you do not place a single wager.

How far in advance should I buy Belmont Stakes tickets?

Belmont Stakes day tickets often sell out 4 to 8 weeks before the race, especially for premium seating. If you plan to attend, purchase tickets as soon as they become available on the track's website. General admission tickets are more likely to be available closer to the date, but arriving early on race day is still necessary to find good standing room.

What happens if it rains on race day?

Races run in the rain unless conditions are severe enough to make the track unsafe. The track surface is maintained to drain well, but muddy or sloppy track conditions can affect how horses run and may change betting odds. Bring rain gear if rain is forecast, and check the track's website or call ahead if severe weather is expected.