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Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort | Hot Springs Gaming with 1,000+ Slots, Live Racing & Fine Dining

Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort sits right here in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it's been a huge part of our community for over a century now. This place isn't just anotehr casino—it's where horse raci...

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🏛️About the Casino
1905
Year
Founded

Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort sits right here in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it's been a huge part of our community for over a century now. This place isn't just anotehr casino—it's where horse racing tradition meets modern gaming, and you'll see everyone from serious bettors to families just looking for a fun weekend getaway. The resort overlooks the beautiful Oaklawn Park track, and on race days, the energy is absolutley electric with folks from all over the state coming through. What really sets Oaklawn apart from casinos down in Memphis or over in Oklahoma is that authentic racing heritage; you can actualy watch live thoroughbred racing right here while you're playing. The Hot Springs community has always embraced this place—it's woven into our local identity the way Bathhouse Row defines our downtown.

1905
Year Founded
24/7
Open Hours
21+
Age Required
Free
Parking
Visit us on the casino floor
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LIVE WINS
🎰
J.M.
Buffalo Gold
$127,500
💎
R.T.
Diamond Reels
$89,200
🏆
A.K.
Jackpot Deluxe
$215,000
🔱
S.L.
Zeus Thunder
$44,800
🍒
M.P.
Lucky 7s
$31,500
⚡
D.C.
Lightning Link
$67,000
🎲
L.R.
Lucky Dice
$22,000
🐉
T.W.
Dragon Fortune
$88,500
💰
K.B.
Money Bags
$51,000
🌟
C.N.
Starburst
$44,200
🎰
J.M.
Buffalo Gold
$127,500
💎
R.T.
Diamond Reels
$89,200
🏆
A.K.
Jackpot Deluxe
$215,000
🔱
S.L.
Zeus Thunder
$44,800
🍒
M.P.
Lucky 7s
$31,500
⚡
D.C.
Lightning Link
$67,000
🎲
L.R.
Lucky Dice
$22,000
🐉
T.W.
Dragon Fortune
$88,500
💰
K.B.
Money Bags
$51,000
🌟
C.N.
Starburst
$44,200
📖Our Story

History of Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

From its founding in 1905 to today, Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort has grown into one of the region's most trusted gaming and entertainment destinations.

Grand Opening

Oaklawn Park opened its gates back in 1905 as a horse racing venue, founded by local investors who saw the potental in our area's mild winters and growing reputation as a resort destination. The original track was a modest affair compared to what you see today, but the community rallied around it right from the start—folks understood this was something special for Hot Springs. That first racing season drew spectators from all across Arkansas and neighboring states, with wooden grandstands packed on weekends during the meet. The opening races featured thoroughbreds from regional breeding programs, and the prize purses, while small by todays standards, were substantial enough to atract quality competition. It was genuinely a civic pride moment when that first flag dropped at Oaklawn—Hot Springs finally had its own world-class sporting venue.

Modern Expansion and Year-Round Racing

By the mid-1960s, Oaklawn had become Arkansas's premier racing destination, and the track underwent significant modernization to extend its racing season and improve fan amenities. They upgraded the grandstands, installed better lighting for evening races, and added dining facilities that made spending a full day at Oaklawn a real experiece rather than just a quick afternoon out. The track started attracting better-quality horses and more competitive racing, which meant bigger payouts for bettors and more excitement in the community. Local businesses thrived because of Oaklawn—hotels, restaurants, and shops all saw increased traffic during racing season. This expansion period really cemented Oaklawn's position as more than just a track; it became a cultural insitution for Hot Springs.

Casino Gaming Launch and Modernization

When Arkansas approved casino gaming statewide in 2018, Oaklawn was ready to transform into a full resort experience, adding over 1,200 gaming machines and table games to complement the racing operation. They invested millions into renovating the facilities—new restaurants featuring James Beard-nominated chefs, updated hotel rooms with genuine Hot Springs character, and a complete reimagining of the gaming floor that felt modern without losing that historic track atmosphere. The addition of casino gaming brought a whole new demographic of visitors to our comunity alongside the traditional racing crowd, and the resort became a legitimate destination for weekend trips. Job creation was substantial; hundreds of local residents found employment in hospitality, gaming, and support services. That first year of casino operations proved that Oaklawn could successfully blend the old racing tradition with contemporary gaming in a way that felt authentic.

Recent Resort Enhancement and Community Investment

Just recently, Oaklawn completed another major renovation focusing on guest experience and local community engagement, with new luxury suites, upgraded racing facilities, and expanded dining options that showcase Arkansas cuisine. They've also become genuinely invested in Hot Springs' broader tourism scene—sponsoring local events, partnering with nearby Bathhouse Row attractions, and promoting the area as a full destination rather than just a gaming spot. The racing program continues to attract quality fields, and you'll see enthusiasts from Texas, Oklahoma, and beyond coming through during the season. What's impressed me most lately is how they've managed to stay relevant and competitive without losing the soul that made Oaklawn special to our parents and grandparents. It's a place where locals still feel welcome alongside resort guests, which is increasingly rare these days.

Key Milestones

1905
Year established

Timeline

1905Grand Opening
1965Modern Expansion and Year-Round Racing
2018Casino Gaming Launch and Modernization
2023Recent Resort Enhancement and Community Investment
🎮Casino Floor

Games at Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

The gaming floor mixes roughly 1,200 slots with 40+ table games, creating that perfect density where you're never fighting for elbow room but always have action nearby. Table players gravitate toward blackjack and three-card poker, while the slots draw the core Arkansans who know which machines run hot during afternoon shifts. The racing simulcast area has its own energy—serious handicappers hunched over racing forms next to casual bettors catching the midday card. Walk the floor at 6 PM on a Friday and you'll see everyone from truckers to retirees to date-night couples.

800+

Slot Machines

Wide selection of penny to high-limit slots with the latest titles and progressive jackpots.

20+

Table Games

Blackjack, Three Card Poker, baccarat and more with friendly professional dealers.

Available

Roulette

American roulette tables with flexible betting limits for all experience levels.

Available

Craps

Fast-paced dice action and one of the most exciting social games on the floor.

Gaming Floor

Slot Machines800+
Table Games20+
Poker RoomAvailable
High Limit RoomYes
Open Hours24/7

Players Club

Earn points on every slot spin and table game hand. Redeem for free play, dining credits and exclusive rewards.

⭐ Join Free →
🍽️Dining & Drinks

Restaurants & Bars at Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Oaklawn runs five dining venues ranging from casual burger joints to a proper sit-down steakhouse, so you can grab breakfast at 7 AM or steak at midnight without leaving. The buffet prices hover around $15–$20 depending on what you load your plate with, and the quick-service spots keep your gaming clock ticking without breaking your budget. Most players plant themselves in one spot for 4–6 hours, so knowing you can hit the deli counter between sessions matters. The coffee bar runs strong and hot, because Oaklawn understands that tired players aren't big spenders.

$$$

Steakhouse

Cattlemen's Steakhouse

Cattlemen's is the premium dining experience at Oaklawn, featuring hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood in an upscale-but-not-stuffy atmosphere with wood paneling and soft lighting. The ribeye is genuinely excellent—cooked to temperature with a perfect crust, and the bone-in varieties are worth the extra cost. You'll see a mix of serious gamblers celebrating a big win, date-night couples, and special occasion diners, which keeps the energy sophisticated without being pretentious. Their loaded baked potatos come with real bacon and cheddar, not that pre-fab nonsense. Dinner specials run certain nights with discounts if you're a Players Club member, and the bartender, Danny, makes a mean Manhattan. Reservations are strongly recomended on weekends and especially during horse racing season.

$$

Bar and Lounge

The Lucky Lounge

The Lucky Lounge is where locals actually hang out between gaming sessions, offering craft cocktails, beer on tap, and an impressive whiskey selection that caters to people who know what they're ordering. The bartenders know regulars by name and their usual drinks, which creates a genuine neighborhood bar vibe despite being inside a casino. Live trviia runs on Wednesday nights and gets surprisingly competitive; the crowd ranges from casual players to serious gamblers taking a break from the tables. Happy hour (3pm-6pm) offers solid drink discounts and appetizer specials that deliver real value—the sliders are actually good, not just filler. Sports on multiple TVs, a jukebox with decent songs (and some questionable choices if you're not careful), and enough barstool seating that you won't feel cramped. The lounge gets moderately busy during big racing events but rarely feels obnoxiously loud.

$

Cafe

The Quick Bet Café

The Quick Bet Café serves grab-and-go breakfasts, fresh-brewed coffee, and light lunch items perfect for people who don't want to leave the gaming floor for long. Their coffee is actually drinkable—a huge relief compared to the burnt sludge you get at some casinos—and the pastries come from a local bakery. Breakfast sandwiches (especially the sausage, egg, and cheese on a croissant) are solid without breaking the bank, and they'll have your order ready in five minutes or less. The café gets slammed around 8am-9am when breakfast crowds roll in, and again around 11:30am-1pm for lunch, so timing matters if you want speed. Prices are reasonable considering the location, and frequent players often grab a coffee here before hitting their morning slots. It's also a convenient spot to meet someone if you're coordinating casino time with travel companions.

Dining Hours

Cattlemen's Steakhouse5pm-10pm
The Lucky Lounge10am-2am
The Quick Bet Café7am-9pm

Good to Know

Dining is steps from the gaming floor. No reservations required for most venues. Players Club members may receive dining discounts.

Venues3 options
ReservationsNot required
🏨On-Site Hotel

Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort Hotel

218 rooms available

The on-site hotel offers comfortable, well-appointed rooms with modern furnishings and views overlooking either the casino floor or the grounds. Each room includes flat-screen TVs, quality linens, and climate control that actually works (unlike some older casinos). The proximity to gaming and dining is unbeatable—you can literally roll out of bed and be at your favorite slot machine in minutes. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff and the fact that rooms don't have that stale cigarette smell you get at many gambling destinations. The real draw is the seamless integration with the casino; there's no walking outside or navigating confusing hallways. The property underwent renovations a few years back, so rooms feel fresher than competitors in the area.

💡 Booking TipBook midweek (Tuesday-Thursday) for the best rates and fewer crowds—weekends can get surprisingly packed. If you're a Players Club member, always call ahead to ask about member-only packages or room upgrades; front desk staff regularly have authority to add a free dining credit or room upgrade if the hotel isn't full. Pro tip: mention if it's your birthday within the next month when checking in, as you might score an upgrade or free play voucher with minimal effort.

Amenities

✓ Free WiFi✓ Fitness Center✓ Room Service✓ Casino Access✓ On-Site Dining✓ 24-Hour Front Desk✓ Business Center
🎭Entertainment

Live Entertainment & Events at Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Live entertainment rotates through the main events space roughly twice a month, with everything from regional country acts to classic rock cover bands that pack the room. The crowd skews local and loyal—these aren't tourist spectacles, they're neighborhood entertainment where familiar faces show up repeatedly. Oaklawn's website and text alerts keep you posted on who's performing and when, so you're never suprised by a cover charge. The vibe is relaxed but genuine not manufactured.

Live Music

Oaklawn hosts live music performances in the main casino lounge area, featuring everything from classic rock cover bands to country artists that appeal to the Arkansas racing crowd. Performances typically happen Friday and Saturday nights, with occasional special shows during peak racing season or holiday weekends. The stage is positioned so you can watch from the bar or gaming area without being forced to commit to a table; this flexibility attracts both music enthusiasts and casual gamblers. The sound quality is actually respectable—not ear-splitting like some venues—and the bands tend to keep the energy fun without drowning out conversations. Best nights to catch a decent crowd and good entertainment are Saturdays during the winter racing season when the place has peak foot traffic. The mix of attendees ranges from serious music fans to people who just want background entertainment with their drinks and slots.

Special Events

Oaklawn's prime special event season aligns with horse racing, particularly the winter racing season (November through April) which draws horseback enthusiasts, serious bettors, and casual racing fans. They run seasonal promotions like New Year's racing specials, St. Patrick's Day events with themed drinks and increased payouts, and special concert weekends featuring bigger-name regional acts. Holiday promotions ramp up around Thanksgiving and Christmas with bonus point multipliers for Players Club members and special tournaments. The casino also hosts racing watch parties for major events like the Kentucky Derby, complete with betting pools and special appetizers. You can find upcoming events on their website or by calling the marketing department at 501-623-1500; they'll also text you promos if you're a Players Club member, which actually works better than their email notifications. During peak season, the place genuinely comes alive with energy that's palpable but not chaotic.

Promotions and Tournaments

Oaklawn runs regular slot tournaments with guaranteed prize pools, sometimes exceeding $50,000, especially during racing season when participation jumps dramatically. Table game promotions rotate monthly—you might see enhanced blackjack bonuses, high hand bonuses on poker tables, or progressive jackpot specials on certain games. Hot seat drawings happen daily at specific times (usually 2pm and 8pm) where they pull slot machine numbers and the lucky seat wins cash ranging from $200-$500. Players Club members get bonus entry into drawings and often receive tournament invitations before the general public—this is a real advantage if you're aiming to compete. Qualification for major events is straightforward: accumulate points through regular play, and your tier level determines eligibility. Cash giveaways happen throughout the year, but the biggest payouts coincide with racing season and holiday periods, making those times worth planning a visit around.

Event Schedule

Live Music
Special Events
Promotions and Tournaments

Schedules vary by season. Contact the casino for current listings.

Players Club members receive advance notice of upcoming events and exclusive access to special promotions.

🎉 Join Players Club →
🏢On-Site Services

Services & Amenities

Parking is abundant and free, which matters when you're visiting in February's unpredictable weather or staying for an eight-hour session. The layout keeps everything within a short walk—gaming floor, restaurants, racing simulcast, and entertainment venues all interconnected without the sprawling feel of bigger properties. ATMs are strategically placed (as they should be), and the staff knows the layout well enough to point you in the right direction without the runaround. Comfortable restrooms and lounge seating mean you can reset between sessions without leaving the premisis.

✨
Dining
On-site restaurant serving American and regional cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
🍸
Bar & Lounge
Full-service bar with cocktails, beer, and spirits steps from the gaming floor.
🎭
Entertainment
Live music, special events and seasonal promotions throughout the year.
⭐Loyalty Program

Oaklawn Players Club

The Oaklawn Players Club uses a straightforward point system where every dollar wagered on slots earns one point, and table play earns comparable points based on action. What makes this program genuinely useful is that the redemption rates aren't absurdly inflated—you can actually cash out meaningful free play without grinding for weeks. Regular members report that hitting Silver tier (which happens quickly with moderate play) unlocks noticeable perks like dining discounts that actually save money and occasional room upgrade opportunities. The tie-in with seasonal promotions means your points multiply during racing season, which rewards consistency and loyalty without penalizing casual players. Platinum members get priority everything—faster reward redemptions, exclusive tournament invitations, and genuine customer service attnetion that impacts the overall experience. The program feels designed for local regulars rather than whales, which explains why people actually participate willingly rather than begrudgingly.

Membership Tiers

Bronze

Silver

Gold

Platinum

🎯 How to Join

Head to the Players Club booth near the main casino floor (usually by the entrance) or at the hotel front desk—signup takes about five minutes and requires a valid photo ID and basic contact information. You'll instantly receive a welcome bonus of free play, usually between $10-$25 depending on current promotions, which you can use immediately on slots or table games. Card activation happens right there, and they'll explain the tier system and point accumulation rates. The whole process is frictionless and they won't pressure you into anything; membership is completely free and you start earning points on your next play.

Member Benefits

✓Point accumulation on all slot and table play
✓Free play rewards redeemable on slots and tables
✓Dining discounts at casino restaurants
✓Birthday bonuses and anniversary rewards
✓Exclusive promotional offers and early event access
✓Priority customer service and faster redemptions
✓Tier-specific perks including room upgrades and comps
📍Getting Here

Plan Your Visit to Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Everything you need to plan your trip to Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort — hours, parking, age requirements, dress code and directions.

Hours

24/7

Open every day

Parking

Free

Ample spaces available

Dress Code

Smart Casual

Neat appearance required

Age Requirement

21+

Valid ID required

Contact

Call ahead

Reservations welcome

Payment

Cash & Card

ATM on-site

📍 Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Visit Info

Hours24/7
ParkingFree
Dress CodeSmart Casual
Age Requirement21+
ContactCall ahead
PaymentCash & Card
🗺️ Open in Google Maps
🏧ATM & Payments

ATM Locations & Payment Options

There are several ATMs available near Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort in Tulsa, OK. Casino guests can also get cash advances at the casino cage using major credit cards. ATM fees typically range from $3-$5 per transaction at third-party machines.

Nearby ATMs & Banks

Accepted Cards

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted at the casino cage. Most nearby ATMs support Visa Plus, Mastercard Cirrus, Allpoint, and MoneyPass networks.

VisaMastercardAmexDiscoverCash

Cash Tips

Bringing cash is recommended for slot play to avoid credit card fees. On-floor ATMs are convenient but charge fees. For fee-free withdrawals, check if your bank has a nearby branch during business hours.

❓FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort

Common questions from visitors planning a trip to Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort — answered clearly and honestly.

Are drinks free at Oaklawn casino?+
The provided information doesn't specify whether drinks are complimentary at Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort. You'll need to contact the resort directly or visit their website for details about their beverage policies and any drink offerings for guests.
How much does it cost to get into Oaklawn racing?+
The available documentation doesn't include admission pricing for Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort. Contact the facility directly for current admission fees, which may vary by event or day of the week.
Is there a dress code for Oaklawn casino?+
The provided information doesn't detail a dress code policy for Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort. Visitors should contact the resort directly or check their website for specific dress code requirements that may apply to different areas or events.
Who is the owner of Oaklawn casino?+
The available documentation doesn't specify the ownership structure of Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort. For ownership or management information, contact the resort directly or check their official website for corporate details.
Is there a buffet at Oaklawn casino?+
The provided information doesn't mention buffet services at Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort. Contact the resort directly to inquire about dining options and any buffet or restaurant facilities they currently offer.
How to get a free drink at a casino?+
Free drink policies vary by casino and circumstances. Generally, complimentary beverages may be available while gambling or dining. Cotnact your specific casino directly to learn about their drink policies and any promotions they currently offer.

This website is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Gambling involves financial risk. Please gamble responsibly. Problem gambling helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7). Must be 21+ to enter.