There are exciting times ahead at Fairmount Park. The only Illinois racetrack outside Chicago entered a partnership arrangement with sportsbook giant FanDuel in 2020. The course now operates under the FanDuel name and boasts an impressive retail sports betting facility alongside its calendar of race days.
But that's just the start. The Collinsville venue has ambitious plans to transform itself into a 'Racino', combining top-class turf action with a glamorous gaming hall. Admittedly, progress has been slow since the proposal emerged in 2020. However, once Fairmount finds a casino partner, gamblers on the Illinois/Missouri border can look forward to a great new gaming experience.
About Fairmount Park Illinois
Fairmount Park, which stands just across the river from St. Louis, opened in 1925. The inspiration was Churchill Downs, the legendary venue of the world-famous Kentucky Derby. For years, this one-mile dirt oval was a pioneering course. In 1947, Fairmount installed lights and became the first track in the state to have nighttime racing. At its peak, there was racing on more than 230 days of the year.
However, the rise of legal casinos in Illinois took its toll on America's horse racing industry. Attendances at race meetings declined, the schedule was cut to just 90 days, and harness racing ceased altogether. State lawmakers voted down a proposal to introduce slot machines on the site, which halted a 2007 proposal to build a 20,000-seater arena on the site.
Happily, things are looking up today. The 2020 partnership with FanDuel streamlined the sports betting operation at the track. In addition to its live racing program, the rebranded FanDuel Sportsbook and Racing offers simulcast wagering on races from all over the USA. The retail sportsbook is another boon, and two-course restaurants, Top of the Turf and the First Turn café, offer tempting dining options.
What types of gambling does Fairmount Park offer?
How do I place a bet at Fairmount Park?
Placing your first bet doesn't need to be a daunting experience. Here's a guide to how it all works.
Fairmount Park and FanDuel sportsbook partnership
FanDuel sportsbook in Illinois, a market leader in US sports betting, reached a sponsorship agreement with Fairmount Park in 2020. This followed FanDuel's move into the Illinois sports betting market after the state legalized retail and online gambling in 2019.
The multi-million dollar deal saw the course renamed FanDuel Sportsbook and Racing. A new, up-to-the-minute retail sportsbook soon followed. Racing lovers were excited to see the return of the St. Louis Derby, a flagship race suspended since 2006.
In addition, there are hopes the deal will kickstart progress on the long-awaited racino at Fairmount.
Can I bet on sports at Fairmount Park?
Yes. Sports betting is on offer at Fairmount Park in partnership with the track's title sponsor, FanDuel. The on-site IL sportsbook is open seven days a week. Customers can place their bets, watch live action on the TV screens and enjoy the lively sports bar atmosphere.
Which sports can I bet on at Fairmount Park?
FanDuel is one of America's leading sportsbook operators. It offers a vast range of markets for almost every sport you can imagine. Whatever your passion, you can bet on it here. Some of the most popular sports for bettors at Fairmount include:
Fairmount Park entertainment & cuisine
As Fairmount's management looks to rejuvenate a venerable venue, the owners are going beyond the traditional race day experience. Friday night meetings, for example, are a Party in the Park. Live music, cheap beer, a bargain buffet, and all the thrills of racing action make this a fun cocktail at the right price. Tuesday's Horse Hooky promo has similar offers on beer and hotdogs for the afternoon meet.
In addition, there are several eateries on site. Top of the Turf is the prestige pick, with its luxury sky boxes affording a fine view of the entire track. The lounge and non-smoking cafe on the third floor do not boast views of the course, but you can follow the action on TV.
The Black Stallion Room on the second floor is the hub of the Party in the Park every Friday during the season. In addition, there's the trackside First Turn Cafe, with a laidback vibe and table service. Opening times for these facilities vary, but whenever you visit, there will be somewhere to eat.