Freehold Raceway
A bustling New Jersey mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment, including harness racing and seasonal light festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Freehold Raceway
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling New Jersey mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment, including harness racing and seasonal light festivals.
"It's still fun and cheap, and you can still grab a beer and have a good time."
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during sales or events.
✨ Seasonal Magic
Don't miss seasonal events like Santa's Winter Wonderland or LuminoCity Festival of Lights for a magical experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harness Racing Spectacle
Freehold Raceway
Witness the thrill of harness racing, a beloved local tradition. A great show for families, though promotion could be more family-oriented.
LuminoCity Festival of Lights
Freehold Raceway Mall
Experience America's biggest immersive festival of lights, featuring an Alice in Wonderland theme. A magical winter attraction.
Genesis Sneaker Boutique
Freehold Raceway Mall
A new, highly anticipated sneaker boutique opening soon, promising giveaways and special guests. A must-visit for sneaker enthusiasts.
Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine
Freehold Raceway Mall
Explore a unique and flavorful Mediterranean dining experience. Highly recommended for its unique cuisine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Freehold Raceway Mall
Beyond Shopping: Entertainment at Freehold Raceway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during sales or events.
✨ Seasonal Magic
Don't miss seasonal events like Santa's Winter Wonderland or LuminoCity Festival of Lights for a magical experience. 
👟 Sneakerhead Alert!
Keep an eye out for the opening of Genesis Sneaker Boutique for exclusive drops and events.
🍽️ Taste of the Mediterranean
Try the new Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine for a unique and delicious dining option.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends can get busy, especially during sales or events.
✨ Seasonal Magic
Don't miss seasonal events like Santa's Winter Wonderland or LuminoCity Festival of Lights for a magical experience.
👟 Sneakerhead Alert!
Keep an eye out for the opening of Genesis Sneaker Boutique for exclusive drops and events.
🍽️ Taste of the Mediterranean
Try the new Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine for a unique and delicious dining option.
🏇 Family Fun at the Track
While the racetrack focuses on gambling, it offers a unique show for families. Consider visiting on nice days or during big races.
👓 New Eyewear Options
Check out the new Warby Parker store for stylish eyewear and accessible vision care.
🧸 Kids' Play Area
Families will appreciate the new Go Playland on the second level for a safe and vibrant space for children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Freehold Raceway Mall is a well-established shopping destination with a mix of popular retailers and dining options. While some find the mall dated, others appreciate its convenience and the variety of stores, especially anchors like Primark. The harness racing track offers a unique, albeit niche, entertainment experience. Recent additions and seasonal events aim to enhance its appeal.
"I love to go to Freehold Raceway to watch the Harness racing. That is a good time to support the horsemen and horses. They bring a great show. It's a good time for families to see. I just wish that the racetrack could do more to promote family friendly activities. Instead, the track prefers to promote gambling and they miss the mark in that respect. But...if you have never been there to see the horses....you surely are missing a great show."
Mary Perkins
"Dated, empty, and sad old place, doesn't seem like any money has been put into it since the 80's with its tile covered architecture and the worn, grubby seats in the grandstand. Hardly anyone there on a mild Saturday in May. The betting machines are hard to understand and I couldn't find a window with a human or any instructions. The place seems to cater mostly to hard-core old guy bettors. Little attention to building an audience or getting new people interested in racing. The racing itself is beautiful though, and you can still grab a beer and one of the sad snacks they have available and have a good time on the cheap placing a few bets for as low as a dollar or two a race. There's off track betting for other races but I didn't check that out. It's not what it was back in the day when people dressed up and there were crowds, a clubhouse, etc. I will go back though, because it's still fun and cheap."
Anne P
"Will surely miss the Freehold Raceway when it closes on December 28, 2024 for good. Hoping to visit again on Friday and again on the last day to make some more memories. 😘💕💋🐴🐎"
Irene Miriam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common public transport option from NYC to Freehold is the 139 bus, which can take around an hour or more depending on traffic. Driving is also an option, with ample parking available at the mall.
Yes, Freehold Raceway Mall offers free parking for visitors.
The mall is conveniently located near Route 9 and Business Route 33, making it easily accessible by car.
Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Freehold area and can drop you off at the mall.
Yes, local bus routes serve the Freehold area, and some may connect to the mall. It's best to check local transit schedules for specific routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Freehold Raceway Mall is free. Tickets are only required for specific ticketed events like the LuminoCity Festival of Lights.
Mall hours can vary, but typically it's open daily. It's recommended to check the official Freehold Raceway Mall website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for both the mall and individual stores.
While the racing itself is a show, the primary focus of Freehold Raceway is betting. Entry to the grounds for watching races is generally free or has a nominal fee, but specific event pricing may apply.
For special events like Santa's Winter Wonderland or LuminoCity, pre-booking tickets online is often recommended to skip lines and guarantee entry.
Yes, LuminoCity has a designated entrance at Freehold Raceway Mall. Check your ticket for specific details or look for signage on-site.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores
Popular stores include Primark, Apple Store, Zara, Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Macy's, and Nordstrom.
Yes, Primark is a major anchor store at Freehold Raceway Mall, offering a wide range of affordable fashion.
The Apple Store is located within Freehold Raceway Mall. Specific location details can be found on the mall's directory or Apple's website.
Yes, you can find shoe stores like Foot Locker and Journeys at Freehold Raceway Mall, catering to various styles and needs.
The mall offers a variety of gift options, from fashion accessories at Pandora and Michael Kors to toys at the Lego Store and beauty products at Sephora and Ulta.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The mall features a diverse range of dining, including sit-down restaurants like Cheesecake Factory and Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine, as well as fast-casual options and a food court.
Yes, Cheesecake Factory is a popular dining choice located at Freehold Raceway Mall.
Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine offers unique and flavorful dishes from the Mediterranean region, with recommendations for their mixed appetizers and fried calamari.
Yes, Freehold Raceway Mall typically has a food court offering a variety of quick-service dining options.
While specific healthy options vary, many restaurants offer salads and lighter fare. Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine also provides flavorful, potentially healthier choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The mall's festive decorations during holidays, the water fountain, and the immersive light displays at LuminoCity offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, you can take photos at the Freehold Raceway track, especially during races. Capturing the horses in action can make for dynamic shots.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed within the mall. However, it's always best to be mindful of other shoppers and avoid intrusive photography.
Visitors often capture the vibrant light installations, themed areas like Alice in Wonderland, and the overall magical ambiance of the festival.
While some reviews describe the mall as dated, specific areas like the new Genesis Sneaker Boutique or the Warby Parker store might offer modern, visually appealing backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the holidays, Santa's Winter Wonderland offers a classic festive experience, and the LuminoCity Festival of Lights provides a visually stunning, immersive attraction for all ages. +1While the harness racing at Freehold Raceway might appeal to some families, it's important to note that the focus is on betting. However, the races themselves are described as a great show and can be an interesting experience for children curious about horses.
👟 Sneakerheads and Trendsetters
This boutique is set to be a major draw for collectors and enthusiasts. Additionally, stores like Primark and Zara offer a wide range of affordable and on-trend clothing, making the mall a good spot for updating your wardrobe. 🛍️ Budget-Conscious Shoppers
The mall also features a food court with diverse quick-service options, allowing for economical dining choices. Keep an eye out for sales events and promotions that are frequently held by various retailers throughout the year.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Future of Freehold Raceway
However, the surrounding Freehold Raceway Mall continues to evolve, with new retail openings like Genesis Sneaker Boutique and Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine signaling ongoing development. The mall also hosts seasonal attractions, such as LuminoCity Festival of Lights, which draw significant crowds and offer a modern entertainment experience.
+1 The future of the raceway itself is uncertain, with one review mentioning a potential closure date, highlighting the changing landscape of traditional entertainment venues. For visitors, understanding this blend of historical racing and modern retail is key. While the raceway offers a glimpse into the past, the mall provides contemporary shopping and entertainment. The advice from travelers often centers on navigating the mall's offerings and enjoying the unique, albeit sometimes dated, charm of the raceway.
Navigating Freehold Raceway Mall: Shopping and Dining
The dining scene at the mall is equally varied. The Cheesecake Factory is a perennial favorite for its extensive menu, and the newly opened Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine offers a distinct culinary experience with highly recommended dishes.
+1 Beyond these, a food court provides quick and convenient options for shoppers on the go. The mall also boasts newer additions like Genesis Sneaker Boutique, appealing to a younger, trend-conscious demographic, and Warby Parker for eyewear needs. +1When planning a visit, it's advisable to check the mall's directory for the most current store listings and operating hours. Weekday visits are generally recommended to avoid peak crowds, allowing for a more pleasant shopping and dining experience.
Family Fun and Entertainment
This is a welcome addition for parents seeking a dedicated spot for kids to burn energy. During the holiday season, Santa's Winter Wonderland at Zara Court transforms into a festive hub, offering a magical experience for children to meet Santa and enjoy seasonal cheer.
For a larger-scale entertainment option, the LuminoCity Festival of Lights (Alice in Wonderland Edition) is a significant draw, featuring immersive light installations that captivate visitors of all ages. Tickets for LuminoCity start at a reasonable price, and free parking is available. While the Freehold Raceway itself is primarily focused on harness racing and betting, it can still offer a unique spectacle for families interested in horses. Reviews suggest that while it may not be heavily promoted as a family-friendly venue, the racing itself is a great show.
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