About Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center in Ohio
Originally known as River Downs, Belterra Park Gaming and Entertainment Center Ohio is a racino located in Anderson Township, Hamilton County, Ohio. It first opened its doors in 1925 as the Coney Island Race Track, a mere 15 years after a prior track in Cincinnati closed.
Despite the challenges, such as the Cincinnati Flood, the track persevered and later became known as River Downs.
In 2018, Boyd Gaming acquired three casinos, including Belterra Park's real estate from Pinnacle. Along with the purchase, there was a $58 million loan facilitated by Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLP). Subsequently, the ownership of Belterra Park shifted to GLP to settle the loan, but it was then leased back to Boyd.
Belterra Park Ohio is a hub of continuous activity. Horse racing enthusiasts consistently find opportunities to place bets. The Center is a pivotal location for exhilarating Ohio online sports betting experiences, excelling in live horseracing, off-track wagers, and simulcasting.
Is there sports betting at Belterra Park?
Currently, Belterra Park does not offer sports betting, but plans are in motion to introduce it. While Ohio legalized sports betting in January 2023 following the endorsement of a long-negotiated bill, the feature has not yet debuted at Belterra Park Gaming.
The legislation categorizes sports betting licenses into three groups, reserving 25 top-tier licenses for Ohio casinos or pro sports teams. This division fostered the collaboration between FanDuel and Belterra.
The anticipation leading up to the Ohio online sports betting launch indicated that FanDuel Ohio and other premier Ohio betting apps initiated wagering on major events around the New Year's weekend.
Although the sportsbook's construction hasn't commenced, the introduction of FanDuel at Belterra Park signals the prominence of sports betting in the state.
Belterra Park Gaming and FanDuel Sportsbook partnership
Belterra Park Gaming is forging a strategic alliance with FanDuel Ohio. As a part of this collaboration, there are intentions to establish a FanDuel retail sportsbook at the racino. Although plans are in progress, a Boyd Gaming representative told OH Betting that construction of the Ohio sportsbook has not yet started.
The official expects the facility to be operational early in 2024. This initiative is among the 18 operations approved for licenses, with aspirations to launch a retail sportsbook at Belterra Park in Cincinnati.
If Ohio legalizes sports wagering permitting racinos to host such events, the property, inaugurated in 2014, will likely accommodate a FanDuel Sportsbook. Such an addition to Belterra Park would enhance its competitive stance against other bookies in downtown Cincinnati.
Furthermore, partnering with FanDuel, a leading global sportsbook, would solidify its market position.
What other types of gambling does Belterra Park Gaming offer?
Belterra Park Ohio, steeped in history, offers a diverse range of betting options in a welcoming setting. The facility meets every bettor's needs with over 16 self-service betting stations and seven teller stations. Whether you're a novice or seasoned gambler, there's something for everyone. Here's a look at some of the available betting options:
