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Mahoning Valley Race Course

In this post, we will go through Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio. We will explore its gambling options, whether it offers sports betting, and much more.

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Although Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio exudes a contemporary ambiance, it has deep historical roots. Established in 2014, it succeeded the iconic Beulah Park track, which marked the inception of thoroughbred racing in Ohio.

The landscape of the sport has transformed since the 1920s, yet Mahoning Valley Race Course remains adaptive and vibrant. With the introduction of simulcasts, VLTs, and the recent inclusion of sports betting, the venue keeps enhancing its allure. Beyond gambling, patrons can indulge in live music and an assortment of dining options on-site.

About Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio

Mahoning Valley's origins can be traced to the dawn of horse racing in Ohio. Located conveniently off Route 46, it was inaugurated in 2014 as a successor to the renowned Beulah Park track in Columbus. Beulah Park, which started its journey in 1923, had the distinction of being Ohio's first thoroughbred racetrack.

When video gaming terminals gained legal status in Ohio, Beulah Park faced challenges. Its proprietors, Penn Entertainment, envisioned a new era of racinos and pursued relocating the venue to a fresh location in Austintown. The result was a sprawling $125 million establishment boasting a mile-long racing circuit.

Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley debuted in September 2014, emerging as a state-of-the-art racino catering to the Youngstown-Warren metropolitan area.

Now, the track hosts a bustling live racing calendar. The thoroughbred season spans from October to April, with Mahoning Valley conducting races every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Special races are held on select Saturdays. With daily simulcast racing from various parts of the country, bettors are never short of opportunities, even if local races aren't on the agenda.

The thrill doesn't halt there. 2022 saw Ohio embracing new regulations, allowing sports betting starting January 1, 2023. Mahoning Valley rang in the New Year by unveiling the Barstool Sportsbook, a dynamic sports betting lounge, which then became ESPN Bet Sportsbook. Patrons can now immerse in the action via expansive screens and place wagers at one of the premier Ohio sportsbooks.

Complementing the racino experience is a bustling casino featuring nearly 1,000 VLTs with an array of modern games. With stakes beginning at a mere cent, there's something for everyone. Factor in live entertainment and a plethora of dining venues, and it's evident that a day at Mahoning Valley promises unparalleled excitement.

Mahoning Valley Race Course OH and ESPN Bet Sportsbook sports betting partnership

In 2023, ESPN Bet Ohio, a refreshing new entrant, aimed to challenge longstanding competitors in the Ohio sports betting arena. As a strategic move following Ohio's decision to legalize sports betting from January 1, 2023, PENN Entertainment announced partnerships with multiple Ohio racinos.

One significant collaboration is with Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio, allowing ESPN Bet to operate the on-site sports betting facility. This alliance not only bolsters ESPN Bet's standing in the sports betting scene but also marks its foray into online gambling in Ohio.

Some industry veterans may find their unconventional style a bit out of place. Yet, with a fresh market evolving in Ohio, ESPN Bet's innovative approach has been the breath of fresh air the industry needed.

Other types of gambling at Mahoning Valley Race Course

  • Horse betting: Experience the unparalleled thrill of selecting a winning horse and claiming your prize from the onsite betting booths. Shared with friends, these moments are priceless.
  • Off-track betting: Even when Mahoning Valley isn't hosting live races, betting remains alive. The simulcast lounge, open from 10 am daily, offers betting opportunities on races from across the nation.

How do I place a horse race bet at Mahoning Valley Race Course?

For newcomers, placing a bet might seem a tad overwhelming. But, rest assured, it's straightforward. Here's a concise guide to get you started.

  1. Choose the track to bet on. While Mahoning Valley primarily features its signature mile-long oval track, their extensive simulcast program also allows wagers on races throughout the USA.
  2. Select a race and decide your bet amount. It's wise to set a gambling budget beforehand. Determine if you wish to cap your stakes per race or set a daily limit, ensuring you bet responsibly. Most patrons typically wager on the upcoming race.
  3. Decide on the type of wager. There are various options. The most straightforward is betting on a horse to win. Other popular bets include 'Place' bets where your chosen horse needs to finish among the top three. For bigger returns, try predicting the first two, three, or four horses in exact order.
  4. Select your horse(s). On race day, get a copy of the day's card to familiarize yourself with the races and horse details. Observing pre-race activities in the paddock at Mahoning Valley can also offer insights into which horses seem in top form.
  5. Finalize your bet. Once you've made up your mind, approach any betting booth, communicate your bet, and hand over your stake. Remember to retain your betting slip—it's your ticket to claim any winnings. Note that in Ohio, as long as a winning slip is legible, it remains valid indefinitely.

Mahoning Valley Race Course entertainment & cuisine

At Mahoning Valley, there's no shortage of dining options to satiate your hunger. Whether you're there for horse racing, gaming, or sports betting, there's a spot tailored for you.

  • Trackside: Situated right by the action, Trackside offers a selection of classic sports fan dishes, ensuring you don't miss any racing moment.
  • Harlan's Holiday: Positioned above Trackside, and named in honor of the legendary racehorse, Harlan's Holiday provides a panoramic course view. It's a great spot to grab quick bites while deliberating over bets.
  • Skybox Sports Bar: For sports aficionados, the Skybox Sports Bar is the place to be. It's decked out with over 30 LCD screens, ensuring you stay in the thick of it, regardless of your sport of choice. The menu includes pizza, burgers, wings, and an array of seafood options.
  • Sportsbook Lounge: A recent addition, this lounge offers live streaming, along with a delectable selection of food and drinks. Plus, you can place bets on ongoing events.
  • Take 2 Grill: Located on the gaming floor, Take 2 Grill serves up mouth-watering sandwiches and burgers. It's the perfect spot to grab a quick bite in between games.
  • H-Lounge: Beyond food and betting, Mahoning Valley's H-Lounge brings in live music every weekend, featuring local talent from the Youngstown vicinity.
  • Fall Food Truck Fridays: An event not to be missed, Fall Food Truck Fridays is all about celebrating local culinary artisans.

The Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio also doubles up as an event venue, specializing in hosting conferences, wedding receptions, and other special occasions.

Contact & opening hours

Address: 655 North Canfield Niles Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44515
Opening hours: Casino open 24 hours; simulcast racing opens at 10 am; Live thoroughbred racing up to five days a week, October through April.
Website: hollywoodmahoningvalley.com/racing
Phone number: 1-877-788-3777

FAQ

Are there any hotels close to Mahoning Valley Race Course?

Yes, there are many hotels close to Mahoning Valley Race Course. The track is close to the intersection of I-80 and Ohio Route 46. There are eight hotels around that intersection, all of which are ideally situated for visitors to Mahoning Valley.

Are there smoking areas in Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio?

Yes, there are smoking areas in Mahoning Valley Race Course in Ohio. Although the casino floor is non-smoking, Mahoning Valley has a covered and heated patio area to accommodate those who wish to smoke while they play.

Can I bring food from outside into Mahoning Valley Race Course?

No, you can't bring food from outside into Mahoning Valley Race Course. Not surprisingly, the restaurants and bars at Mahoning Valley expect customers to purchase food and drinks on the premises. Also, visitors are asked not to take drinks outside.