Even though the state of Arizona is not considered as a horse racing hotbed the way that Kentucky is, off track betting in Arizona is hugely popular, as demonstrated by the fact there are more than 50 locations that host OTB throughout the state. In the Phoenix area, there are close to 40 OTB locations in bars, restaurants and legion halls, with other OTBs scattered across the state, from Flagstaff to Tucson. Thoroughbred racing has been held at Turf Paradise in Phoenix for 60 years, while Rillito Park in Tucson is home to Quarterhorse racing.
Arizona Off Track Betting Sites
As mentioned, there are dozens of Arizona off track betting sites throughout the state, and the best way to find an OTB near you is to check the Arizona Department of Racing website, which has a comprehensive list of all locations, including contact information. And if you just can’t get to an OTB, you can always bet online through one of these quality racebooks.
Arizona Horse Race Tracks
In Arizona, live horse racing takes place at Turf Paradise in north Phoenix, and at Rillito Race Track in Tucson.
Turf Paradise
First opened in 1956, Turf Paradise today holds a fall/winter meet that runs from mid-October to early May, with 130 days of racing scheduled for the 2016-17 meet. Turf Paradise features both thoroughbred and Quarterhorse racing, and has both a dirt and turf racing surface, with the major stakes races being the Cotton Fitzsimmons Mile on the turf, the Phoenix Gold Cup and the Arizona Derby.
They hold special events on both Kentucky Derby Day and for the Breeders' Cup. In addition to live racing, the track is open seven-days-per-week all year around to broadcast simulcast racing from other tracks around North America, from 9 am to 7 pm. There is small admission fee to attend live racing, however there is no admission to attend simulcasting on days when there is no live racing action. Food and drink service is available at all times. Check with the Turf Paradise website for details on dates and times, as post times for live racing varies throughout the meet.
1501 Bell Road
Phoenix AZ 85023
(602) 942-1101
Rillito Park Race Track
In Tucson, meanwhile, Rillito Park Race Track holds a short winter meet, with racing on Saturdays and Sundays from February 11 to March 19, for a total of 14 live racing dates. There is no simulcasting at Rillito Park, although they do occassional offer the chance to watch and wager on special events, such as the Kentucky Derby.
4502 North 1st Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85718
(520) 745-5486