Some of the races are run on the turf.
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Fort Erie Race Track

4.4
·783 reviews·Fort Erie, Canada

Experience the thrill of thoroughbred racing and unique dog races at the historic Fort Erie Race Track, offering free entry and parking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Some of the races are run on the turf.

Fort Erie Race Track

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the thrill of thoroughbred racing and unique dog races at the historic Fort Erie Race Track, offering free entry and parking.

4.4
(783 reviews)

"We had a great time loved the horse races. the dog races was a hoot they was so cute and fun."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry & Parking!

Enjoy the excitement without an admission fee. Parking is also free, making it a budget-friendly outing.

🐶 Corgi & Wiener Dog Races

Don't miss the fun and laughter of the special dog races – they're a unique highlight!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thoroughbred Horse Racing

Thoroughbred Horse Racing

Main Track

Experience the thrill of live thoroughbred racing with powerful horses and skilled jockeys in action.

Basset Hound Races

Basset Hound Races

Main Track

Witness the hilarious and adorable spectacle of Basset Hounds competing in their own unique races.

Wiener Dog Races

Wiener Dog Races

Main Track

Enjoy the comical sight of dachshunds scrambling down the track in a crowd-pleasing event.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Fort Erie Race Track offers free parking and entry, making it an accessible outing. Consider visiting on weekdays or during non-peak hours for a more relaxed experience. Check their schedule for special events like the Basset Hound Races, which are a unique draw.

Know Before You Go: Betting & Food

While entry is free, betting is for ages 18+. Food stalls offer reasonable prices, but some visitors note it can be a bit pricey. Familiarize yourself with the racing program beforehand if you plan to bet, or ask the friendly ticket ladies for assistance.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Special Event Days
Why
Unique races & entertainment
Crowd
Medium
When
Father's Day
Why
Family fun & track history
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Horse racing at the Fort Erie race track!
andrewgill114
2 likes • 47 views

🎯 Free Entry & Parking!

Enjoy the excitement without an admission fee. Parking is also free, making it a budget-friendly outing. Reddit

🐶 Corgi & Wiener Dog Races

Don't miss the fun and laughter of the special dog races – they're a unique highlight! Instagram

#forteriefestivals #northstardroneshows #forterieracetrack #santascoming #waycool
forteriefestivals
6 likes • 315 views
Audio left on. Take it with what you will. 😂😂😂 Thank you @forterieracetrack for a hosting a fun corgi race! 🥰 It was so nice seeing our friends @itsdasheroni @adventure.corgis @chloethecorgipup I was so sad we couldn’t see Nika and Dash’s race because everyone was lining up to be hosed down and Norris definitely needed a hose down after doing a standing ovation for rolling in the mud. 😭😭😭😭 We r...
peachylittlenorris
100 likes • 2.4K views

📅 Check the Schedule

Look out for special events like Basset Hound races and live music to enhance your visit. Reddit

🏇 Betting for 18+

If you plan to bet, remember it's for adults 18 and over. Ask staff for help if you're new to racing. Reddit

I’m excited for another big weekend at the Fort Erie Race Track! No better weekend than Father’s Day to enjoy time with family and support the track. 126 years of history, bringing together people from our local communities and from all over the world. Let’s ensure that we all fight to keep the Fort Erie Race Track open!
vbadawey
46 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry & Parking!

Enjoy the excitement without an admission fee. Parking is also free, making it a budget-friendly outing. Reddit

🐶 Corgi & Wiener Dog Races

Don't miss the fun and laughter of the special dog races – they're a unique highlight! Instagram

📅 Check the Schedule

Look out for special events like Basset Hound races and live music to enhance your visit. Reddit

🏇 Betting for 18+

If you plan to bet, remember it's for adults 18 and over. Ask staff for help if you're new to racing. Reddit

🍔 Track Food & Treats

Food stalls offer a variety of options, though some find them a bit pricey. Enjoy the atmosphere! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(783 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally have a great time at Fort Erie Race Track, praising the free entry and parking, and the unique entertainment like dog races. While the horse races are a highlight, some find the food a bit pricey and the atmosphere can be quiet on less busy days. It's considered a fun, family-friendly outing with a touch of history.

"We had a great time loved the horse races. the dog races was a hoot they was so cute and fun.
Free parking and free entry

We will be back"

Dave G.

"We had a good time at Fort Erie Racetrack. The kids really enjoyed themselves and it was a fun outing overall. The food was on the pricier side, and the crowd was very scarce, which made the atmosphere a little quieter than expected. Still, it was a nice day out and worth the visit."

Scott Sweitzer

"It was a first time here for the whole family!! What a great time!! Parking was free, entry was free. The food was reasonably priced. The horse races were great! And the weiner dogs races were super fun/funny as well! We didn't bet any money as we wanted to see what happens first. We will definitely be coming back in August for the basset hound races!!"

Amber Laplante

What People Like

Free entry and parking
Unique dog races
Exciting horse races

What People Dislike

Food can be pricey
Quiet atmosphere at times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort Erie Race Track is located in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, directly across the river from Buffalo, New York. Visitors can drive to the track, and parking is free. Instagram

Information on public transportation options can vary. It's best to check local transit schedules for Fort Erie or Niagara Region Transit for the most up-to-date routes and times.

The address is 2197 Fort Erie Race Track Rd, Fort Erie, ON L2A 5M4, Canada. Reddit

Yes, parking is available and it is free for all visitors. Reddit

Yes, Fort Erie is directly across the river from Buffalo, NY. You can drive across the border and then to the track. Ensure you have proper documentation for crossing the border.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Fort Erie Race Track is free for all ages. Reddit

Operating hours can vary depending on the racing schedule and special events. It's recommended to check the official Fort Erie Race Track website for the most current hours of operation. Reddit

Yes, betting on the races is available for individuals aged 18 and over. Reddit

Since admission is free, advance booking is not required for general entry. However, for special events or premium seating, it's advisable to check the track's website.

General admission is open to all ages. However, betting is restricted to individuals aged 18 and older. Reddit

🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience

Fort Erie Race Track primarily hosts thoroughbred horse racing. They also feature unique events like Basset Hound races and Wiener Dog races, as well as occasional concerts and festivals. Instagram+1

The atmosphere can range from exciting during live races to more relaxed on quieter days. Special events often bring a lively buzz. Instagram+1

Yes, the track is family-friendly, and special events like dog races are particularly enjoyable for kids. Instagram

Information on live streaming services may be available through the track's official website or affiliated racing platforms. Check for 'Fort Erie Race Track live streaming' online.

The Prince of Wales Stakes is a significant thoroughbred horse race held annually at Fort Erie Race Track, often considered the biggest event of the year. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The track offers various food stalls with options that are generally considered reasonably priced, though some visitors note they can be a bit on the pricier side. InstagramReddit

Policies on outside food and beverages can vary. It's best to check the track's official guidelines or contact them directly to confirm.

While there are food stalls and concessions, specific sit-down restaurant details might be limited. Check for 'Fort Erie Race Track restaurant' for any specific dining facilities.

Expect typical track fare, which can include items like hot dogs, burgers, and other casual dining options. Special events might feature food trucks with diverse offerings. Instagram

The food options are generally family-friendly, catering to a wide range of tastes. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the action from the grandstands for a classic racing shot, or get closer to the paddock area for pre-race excitement. The unique dog races also offer fun photo opportunities. Instagram

Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed for non-commercial use. However, always be mindful of other guests and any specific track regulations. Instagram

Professional photography or filming for commercial purposes may require special permits. Avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the horses or patrons. Instagram

Popular shots include the horses thundering down the track, jockeys in action, the winner's circle, and the unique charm of the dog races. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at sporting venues due to safety and privacy concerns. Check with the track management for any specific drone policies. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fort Erie Race Track is a fantastic family outing, offering free admission and parking, making it budget-friendly. Reddit Kids will especially love the Wiener Dog Races and Basset Hound Races, which are incredibly entertaining and provide plenty of laughs. Instagram The general atmosphere is welcoming to all ages, and the excitement of the horse races can captivate younger audiences too. Instagram

While food can be a bit pricey, there are options available to suit most family needs. Consider packing some snacks if you're on a tight budget. The open space and the thrill of live animals make it an engaging experience for children. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

This is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers as Fort Erie Race Track offers free entry and free parking. Reddit You can enjoy the spectacle of horse racing and unique dog races without spending a dime on admission. Instagram This allows you to allocate your funds towards betting if you choose, or towards food and souvenirs.

While some food items might be on the pricier side, there are usually concessions that offer reasonable value. The ability to enjoy a full day of entertainment without an entry fee makes it a standout option for those looking to maximize their travel budget. Reddit

🏇 Horse Racing Enthusiasts

For seasoned fans of thoroughbred racing, Fort Erie Race Track provides a classic and authentic experience. You can delve into the Fort Erie race track entries and programs to strategize your bets. Reddit The track hosts significant events like the Prince of Wales Stakes, offering a chance to witness top-tier competition. Instagram

Beyond the main races, the track's history and the dedication of its community add to the appeal. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff and fellow patrons can enrich your understanding and enjoyment of the sport. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Live Horse Racing

Fort Erie Race Track is a historic venue for thoroughbred horse racing. The excitement of watching powerful horses and skilled jockeys compete is a primary draw for many visitors. The track offers a chance to experience the sport firsthand, from the energy of the paddock to the thunder of hooves on the dirt. Visitors can place bets, adding an extra layer of engagement to the races. Instagram+1

For those new to the sport, the track staff, like the 'ticket ladies,' are often noted for being helpful in explaining the betting process. This makes it accessible even for beginners. The Fort Erie live racing season brings a vibrant atmosphere to the town, attracting both local enthusiasts and tourists. Reddit

Key events like the Prince of Wales Stakes are major highlights, drawing significant attention and crowds. Experiencing these premier races offers a deeper appreciation for the history and tradition of horse racing in Canada. Instagram

Unique Canine Competitions

Beyond the traditional horse racing, Fort Erie Race Track is famous for its unique and entertaining Basset Hound Races and Wiener Dog Races. These events are a massive hit with families and animal lovers, offering a dose of humor and charm that sets the track apart. The sight of these determined, short-legged breeds racing down the track is a memorable and fun experience for all ages. InstagramReddit

These special races often draw larger crowds and create a lively, festive atmosphere. They are a testament to the track's commitment to providing diverse entertainment beyond just horse racing. Visitors often rave about the sheer fun and cuteness of these events, making them a must-see if your visit coincides with them. Instagram

If you're looking for something truly different and guaranteed to bring smiles, timing your visit to catch one of these canine competitions is highly recommended. They are a unique aspect of the Fort Erie Race Track events calendar. Instagram

A Glimpse into History and Community

Fort Erie Race Track boasts a rich history, with over 126 years of operation. It has been a cornerstone of the community, bringing people together from local areas and around the world. The track represents a significant part of Ontario's sporting heritage and continues to be a beloved institution for many. Instagram

Efforts are ongoing to ensure the track's future, with community members and advocates actively working to preserve its legacy. Events and races held here not only provide entertainment but also serve to support and sustain this historic venue. Instagram

Visiting Fort Erie Race Track is not just about the races; it's about experiencing a piece of local history and supporting a venue that holds sentimental value for many. The track's enduring presence is a testament to its importance in the region. Instagram

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