Rillito Park Horse Racetrack

Historical landmark for quarter horse racing for over 50 years. Thoroughbreds and quarter horses racing weekends in February and March.

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RILLITO PARK RACE TRACK is the historical landmark of Quarter Horse Racing. It is located in the shadows of the beautiful Catalina Mountains in northwest Tucson. Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse Racing normally begins in mid-January and continues for several consecutive weekends through February. Rillito Racetrack offers pari-mutuel betting on 8 or 9 live races each Saturday and Sunday. With the exception of Super Bowl weekend when we are closed. Clubhouse seating, with a full restaurant and bars, is available for $12.00 per person. Tables for four, along the windows overlooking the track, may be purchased for $40.00 - $75.00 depending on the location. General admission to the grandstand area is $6.00. Tables for four, along the windows in the grandstand, may be purchased for $25.00. Snack bars and beverage bars are available in this area - both upper level and lower level. Children under 12 are admitted free to the clubhouse and grandstand. Parking is free and valet parking is available.

Horse Racing always seems to conjure up images of the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown or the 30's and 40's when Racing was in it's heyday. A trip to Rillito Park in Tucson proves that Horse Racing is still very much in it's heyday and fast becoming a sport for the entire family to enjoy. Originally opened in the 1940's, this track is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the home for the humble beginnings of American Quarter Horse Racing in the United States.

The beating of hooves drum in your chest - as you watch Quarter Horses or Thoroughbreds race around the 5/8 mile track in pursuit of the win - and you pray for your "lucky" horse to cross the finish line first. Just in case he or she doesn't win, there is a daily losing ticket drawing where you may win a free dinner or other prize.

Since 1988 Rillito Race Track has been Racing during the cool months of January and February. With the grandstand and clubhouse so close to the track, you can't help but feel as though you are part of the action. No matter where you are, you are never too far to hear them yell - "They're Off".