What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a trip to Colorado? Well, horse racing is definitely not it. You are probably thinking about going to the snow-capped mountains, world-class skiing, and maybe some craft breweries to stop by along the way.

Colorado isn’t necessarily Kentucky when it comes to horse racing. But this doesn’t mean that there is absolutely no horse racing action here.

But before we get your expectations high, let’s just say that there aren’t many horse racing tracks in Colorado. So, this isn’t the perfect place for a horse racing enthusiast, but if you and your friends have already planned the trip, here are some of the best places to go to see some horse action.

And no, you won’t need a fancy hat or an outfit. We are not talking about elite races.

1. Arapahoe Park – Aurora, Colorado

Bally’s Arapahoe Park is Colorado’s only active horse racing track. Yes, it’s sad, but the truth. This is the only place where you can catch some flat racing, and it is not as fancy as the Grade 1 races you are used to.

This venue is opened by Bally’s Corporation, and it is located in Arapahoe Park. There are many Thoroughbred, Quarter and paint horse races organized throughout the year.

So, which is the best time to visit this racecourse? Well, the racing season generally begins in mid-May, just after the exciting Kentucky Derby, and lasts the entire summer until mid-August. However, this year, their live racing season is a bit different.

In 2025, the horse racing season at Bally’s Arapahoe Park starts in September and lasts until November 17. You can check all the race days here.

If you manage to find yourself there, we highly suggest that you watch the Mile High Futurity and the Mile High Derby, which are both quarter horse races with final purses of over $100,000.

Okay, this might not be Kentucky Derby level, but it is still decent for a place with not a big horse racing history. If you want some Thoroughbred action, then you should attend the Gold Rush Futurity, which is a 2 year old stakes race going six furlongs for the same prize purse as the other ones.

There are plenty of horses around, and you can even book suits at their hotel which is owned by Marriott. Ara

Arapahoe has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. You can show up in shorts, grab a beer, and enjoy the thundering hooves without the high-society pressure of bigger-name tracks. It also offers pari-mutuel betting, simulcast wagering, and decent concessions—so it’s got just enough action to keep your heart (and wallet) engaged.

Pro tip: Arapahoe is known for local trainers and up-and-coming horses. You won’t find Kentucky Derby champs here, but you might spot the next breakout star.

2. Sky Ute Downs – Ignacio, Colorado

This isn’t exactly a racetrack, but still a place that equine enthusiasts could have some fun. We are talking about the Sky Ute Downs, which is an indoor arena that hosts many horse events throughout the year.

Each summer, this is a popular trip for tourists, especially ones who want to try something new. There are plenty of events, from horse riding to show jumping, even bull riding for some additional adrenaline rush.

This is also a palace where you and your kids can take care of horses and ride them, and the best thing is that the location has a beautiful RV park, which is why it is so attractive to people who travel.

3. Colorado State Fairgrounds – Pueblo, Colorado

Okay, this isn’t a horse racing track or a venue that has anything to do with horses. But since we are out of options, we decided to highlight some of the most popular activities in Colorado that give off a similar vibe.

The Colorado State Fairgrounds is scheduled for August 22 and will last until September 1. There are plenty of shows, rodeo, horse riding events, musicians like Flo Rida, Cooper Alan, Clay Walker, and even comedy shows with Gabriel Fluffy Iglesias and plenty of rollercoasters for some adrenaline rush.

So, this isn’t exactly a horse racing event, but a place where you can get close to horses and have some fun.

What About Off-Track Betting (OTB)?

Colorado may not have dozens of tracks, but it makes up for it with simulcast betting options. Several OTB locations let you bet on races happening all over the country, without ever leaving town.

Just make sure to learn more about the best horse racing bets before placing some money. At least try to understand how to read horse racing odds before choosing your winning horse.

If you’re near Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs, you’re likely close to an OTB lounge or casino where you can:

• Bet on races from Churchill Downs, Belmont Park, Santa Anita, and more.
• Watch live simulcasts on big screens.
• Eat, drink, and chat with fellow racing fans.

Final Words

Colorado might not be a horse racing state, but there is plenty of horse action all around.

Plus, the scenery is incredible, and the summer season is just as fun as the winter, especially with all the events that are hosted every year.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

john@aboutboulder.com