Hook: Picture this: The thunder of hooves echoes across the track as a sleek Thoroughbred dashes toward the finish line. Just steps away, crowds cheer over touchdown bets and parlays lighting up digital screens. This isn’t Las Vegas—it’s FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing on Collinsville Road in Collinsville, Illinois, where century-old traditions collide with 21st-century adrenaline.
From Fairmount Park to FanDuel: A Legacy Reimagined
For nearly 100 years, the dirt track at 9301 Collinsville Road has been a cornerstone of Midwest horse racing. Originally opened in 1925 as Fairmount Park Racetrack, this venue has survived Prohibition, economic downturns, and the rise of digital. Today, rebranded under FanDuel, it’s one of Illinois’ last remaining horse-racing hubs outside Chicago—and the only one fused with a retail sportsbook.
Why It Matters:
- 🏇 Historic Significance: One of the oldest active Thoroughbred tracks in the U.S.
- 🎰 Dual Appeal: Combines live racing with sports, attracting both purists and casual fans.
- 📍 Strategic Location: Minutes from St. Louis, drawing crowds from Missouri and Illinois.
What to Expect: A Day at FanDuel Collinsville
Live Horse Racing: The Heartbeat of the Track
Races run seasonally on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with post times typically around 6:30 PM. The track specializes in mid-distance Thoroughbred races, offering a mix of claiming races and stakes events.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a rail-side seat—the best spot to feel the ground shake as horses blaze by.
FanDuel Sportsbook
Step inside the renovated sportsbook, and you’ll find:
- 30+ HD screens broadcasting global sports
- Kiosks for placing bets on NFL, NBA, MLB, and more
- Expert oddsboards and “Bet Builder” tools for custom parlays
Comparing Illinois’ Horse Racing Venues
While Chicago boasts Hawthorne Race Course, downstate Illinois has two players: FanDuel Collinsville and Arlington International (now closed). Here’s how Fairmount Park stacks up:
| Feature | FanDuel Collinsville | Hawthorne (Chicago) |
|---|---|---|
| Live Racing Days/Week | 3 | 3-4 |
| Sportsbook Onsite? | Yes | No |
| Simulcast | 500+ domestic/international tracks | 300+ tracks |
| Dining Options | 3 restaurants, 1 sports bar | 5 dining venues |
Beyond Bets: Dining, Events, and Midwest Charm
FanDuel Collinsville isn’t just for wagering. The complex includes:
- The Winner’s Circle Restaurant: Prime rib buffet on race nights ($25 pp)
- The Rail Sports Bar: Craft beers, giant pretzels, and game-day specials
- Event Spaces: Host weddings, corporate events, or derby parties in the Grandstand Lounge
FAQs
- Where exactly is FanDuel Collinsville located?
9301 Collinsville Road, Collinsville, IL 62234—15 minutes from downtown St. Louis. - Do I need to pay for parking?
Parking is free, with VIP spots available for $10 on race days. - Are kids allowed inside?
*Yes, but only adults 21+ can bet or enter the sportsbook bar area.* - What’s the dress code?
Casual (jeans OK), but derby-themed events encourage hats and sundresses.
Why This Venue Matters (And Why You’ll Love It)
FanDuel’s Collinsville outpost bridges generations. For older visitors, it’s a nostalgic nod to Fairmount Park’s golden era. For younger crowds, it’s a gateway to sports high-tech future. Plus, its proximity to St. Louis makes it a unique day-trip hybrid: part Vegas, part Midwest county fair.
3 Takeaways for Your Visit:
- Double Down on Tuesdays: Less crowded races mean better odds and shorter lines.
- Try the “Collinsville Combo”: A $10 bet split between a horse race and a same-day MLB game.
- Stay for Sunset: The track’s west-facing grandstand offers stunning Mississippi River Valley views.
Final Thought: In an age of apps and algorithms, FanDuel Collinsville reminds us that some experiences—like the roar of a live horse race—can’t be streamed. It’s a relic and a revolution. And honestly? That’s a bet worth making.
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