Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Experience the thrill of live horse racing and casino gaming at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, featuring a non-smoking casino and a luxurious spa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live racing season
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Best Time
Live racing season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of live horse racing and casino gaming at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, featuring a non-smoking casino and a luxurious spa.
"The Astral Spa will definitely see me again. Clean, professional staff, and they have champagne."
Betting Strategy Tips
Consider looking at horses in the paddock before betting. Research past performance for informed wagers.
Non-Smoking Casino
Enjoy a clean gaming environment as smoking is not permitted inside the casino. :airflow:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Horse Racing
The Race Track
Experience the thrill of live thoroughbred racing. Bet on your favorites and soak in the electric atmosphere.
Casino Floor Excitement
Casino
Try your luck at a variety of slot machines, video poker, and table games in a non-smoking environment.
Astral Spa Indulgence
Hotel
Relax and rejuvenate with a spa day. Professional staff and a tranquil setting make it a standout amenity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Horse Racing Season is Key
Casino & Hotel Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Betting Strategy Tips
Consider looking at horses in the paddock before betting. Research past performance for informed wagers.
Non-Smoking Casino
Enjoy a clean gaming environment as smoking is not permitted inside the casino. :airflow:
Spa Reservations
Book spa appointments in advance, especially for weekend visits, to secure your preferred time. :calendar:
Dining Variety
Al's Diner is a budget-friendly option. Explore other restaurants for different culinary experiences. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
Betting Strategy Tips
Consider looking at horses in the paddock before betting. Research past performance for informed wagers.
Non-Smoking Casino
Enjoy a clean gaming environment as smoking is not permitted inside the casino. :airflow:
Spa Reservations
Book spa appointments in advance, especially for weekend visits, to secure your preferred time. :calendar:
Dining Variety
Al's Diner is a budget-friendly option. Explore other restaurants for different culinary experiences. :forkandknifewithplate:
Check Racing Schedule
Confirm live racing dates and times on the official Oaklawn website before your visit. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offers a lively atmosphere, particularly during the horse racing season, with a clean, non-smoking casino floor and a highly-rated spa. However, some guests have experienced significant customer service issues with the hotel and find the casino slot payouts to be tight.
"We were in town for a few days and decided to stop by and test our luck. Walking in the staff greeted us and directed us to the casino. Inside it smelled like a 5 star hotel, no smoking allowed and we were thankful for that. Although we didnt hit the jackpot, it was a nice experience."
Roderick Bryant
"While the rooms are nicely appointed, the hotel is clean and relatively quite, the service is the worst I have come across in my 18+ years of business travel. Upon check in we had to wait 15 minutes for a desk agent to surface from who knows where. Then a day after checkout I was billed twice. After calling the hotel 5 times, I still have not been connected to someone who has the authority and/or systems access to look into a billing issue or resolve the issue. They make the cable company customer service look like absolute champions!"
Chris Mack
"Nice casino but never have any luck here. Neither have the people that have gone with me. No matter even if you get great hands the dealer always has one a little better. Ive never seen anyone win here. It's just nice to get away occasionally."
steve stevenson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It's accessible by car via major highways. If flying, the nearest major airport is Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, about an hour's drive away. Rental cars are available at the airport.
Yes, Oaklawn offers ample parking for guests. During racing season, valet parking and preferred parking options may be available for a fee.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically operate in the Hot Springs area and can be used to get to and from Oaklawn.
From Little Rock, take I-30 West towards Texarkana. Take Exit 111 for US-70 West towards Hot Springs. Continue on US-70 West, which will lead you into Hot Springs. Oaklawn is well-marked from the main roads.
Oaklawn is generally accessible, with designated parking and ramps. Specific accessibility needs can often be accommodated by contacting guest services in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the casino floor is generally free. However, specific events or premium seating areas for racing may require tickets. It's best to check the official Oaklawn website for event-specific ticketing information.
The casino is typically open 24/7, though specific gaming areas or table game hours might vary. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current operating hours.
Yes, you must be 21 years of age or older to enter the casino and participate in any gaming activities. Valid identification will be required.
General admission to the racetrack is usually free or very low cost during live racing days. Reserved seating or premium areas will have separate ticket prices. Check the Oaklawn schedule for details.
Yes, for major racing events or special promotions, you can often purchase tickets in advance through the Oaklawn website or authorized ticket vendors to secure your spot.
🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience
Oaklawn features live thoroughbred horse racing, showcasing some of the finest racing stock. The season typically runs from January through May, with major stakes races.
You can place various types of bets, from simple win, place, and show bets to more complex exotics like exacta, trifecta, and superfecta. Paddock viewing can help inform your betting choices.
Yes, Oaklawn offers multiple dining options, ranging from casual diners like Al's Diner to more upscale restaurants. There are also several bars and lounges throughout the property.
Yes, Oaklawn features an attached hotel. Reviews are mixed, with some praising the spa and fitness center, while others report customer service issues.
For the casino and casual dining, there's no strict dress code, but smart casual is generally appropriate. For premium seating or special events at the track, a more dressed-up attire might be preferred.
📸 📸 Photography
The grandstands offer great views of the racetrack and horses during races. The hotel lobby and Astral Spa can provide elegant backdrops. Capture the vibrant casino floor for a lively feel.
Generally, casual photography is allowed in public areas. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas, and professional photography may require permits. Always be mindful of other guests' privacy.
Capture the speed and power of the horses thundering down the track, the excitement of the jockeys, and the cheering crowds. Action shots are key!
Yes, you can take photos in your hotel room for personal use. If you're showcasing the room for commercial purposes, you may need permission.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. During racing, any time the gates open is prime photo time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Outside of the casino and track, the hotel's fitness center might offer a way for older children to burn off energy. However, there are limited dedicated children's activities. Dining options like Al's Diner are more casual and might be suitable for family meals. It's important to note that the casino floor is strictly for those 21 and over, so younger family members will need to remain in designated areas or with a non-gaming adult.
💰 Budget Travelers
When it comes to the casino, setting a strict budget beforehand is crucial. While free play and point rewards are available, some guests feel they are less generous than in the past. Look for promotions or happy hour deals at the bars to save on drinks. If staying overnight, consider visiting during the off-season or weekdays when hotel rates might be lower.
couples
Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Oaklawn's restaurants, or try your luck together at the casino tables. The hotel offers a place to stay, though it's wise to be aware of potential service issues. A staycation combining spa treatments, a nice meal, and some casino fun can make for a memorable couple's retreat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Race
For those new to racing, understanding the basics of betting can enhance the experience. Simple bets like 'win,' 'place,' and 'show' are good starting points. More experienced bettors might delve into 'exotic' bets like exactas and trifectas. Observing the horses in the paddock before a race is a common tip from seasoned visitors, as it can offer visual clues about a horse's condition and readiness. The roar of the crowd and the sight of the horses rounding the final turn create an unforgettable spectacle.
Beyond the races themselves, Oaklawn offers amenities to complement the racing experience. Restaurants and bars are strategically located to allow guests to enjoy food and drinks while keeping an eye on the track. The resort aims to provide a comprehensive entertainment package, ensuring that whether you're a seasoned handicapper or a casual observer, the racing days are memorable.
Casino Gaming and Atmosphere
While the casino provides entertainment, some reviews suggest that the slot payouts can be perceived as 'tight,' meaning winning might be less frequent or smaller compared to other venues. This is a common sentiment in many casino reviews, and individual experiences can vary greatly. Despite this, the overall atmosphere is described as lively and engaging, making it a popular spot for those looking to test their luck. The resort also offers loyalty programs and promotions, though some regulars feel the rewards for loyal players could be improved.
Beyond the gaming, the casino area is integrated with bars and lounges, providing refreshments and a place to socialize. The resort's commitment to cleanliness extends to the gaming areas, contributing to a pleasant environment for patrons. Whether you're a high roller or just looking for some casual fun, the casino offers a vibrant setting for entertainment.
Hotel and Spa Experience
However, the hotel's customer service has been a point of contention for some guests, with multiple reviews citing significant issues. These range from long waits for check-in staff to persistent billing errors that are difficult to resolve. This inconsistency in service can detract from an otherwise pleasant stay, leading to frustration for business travelers and vacationers alike.
Despite the service challenges, the hotel rooms themselves are generally described as nicely appointed and clean. The fitness center is also noted as being well-equipped and accommodating. For those prioritizing the spa experience or a clean, quiet room, the hotel can be a good option, but it's advisable to be prepared for potential service hiccups and to confirm all billing details carefully.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit