Arlington Park, also known as Arlington International Racecourse, is a popular horse racing track located in the state of Illinois. The track has been in operation since 1927 and has hosted numerous high-profile racing events, including the Arlington Million. However, the question remains: is Arlington Race Track in Cook County?
Location and Geography
To answer this question, we need to take a closer look at the location and geography of Arlington Park. The track is situated in the village of Arlington Heights, which is located approximately 27 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. While Arlington Heights is not directly adjacent to Cook County, it is part of the larger Chicago metropolitan area.
Cook County Borders
Cook County is the second-most populous county in the United States and is home to the city of Chicago. The county borders several neighboring counties, including Lake County to the north, Will County to the south, and DuPage County to the west. However, Arlington Heights, where Arlington Park is located, is actually situated in Cook County’s neighboring county, Lake County, but also partially in Cook County.
Boundary Disputes
There have been some boundary disputes between Cook County and Lake County in the past, particularly with regards to the village of Arlington Heights. However, according to the Cook County Government website, Arlington Heights is partially located in Cook County, with a small portion of the village extending into Lake County.
Arlington Park’s History
Arlington Park has a rich history dating back to 1927, when it was founded by Harry F. Byrd. The track quickly gained popularity and became known for its high-quality racing events and picturesque surroundings. Over the years, Arlington Park has hosted numerous notable racing events, including the Arlington Million, which was first run in 1981.
Track Renovations
In 1981, Arlington Park underwent significant renovations, including the construction of a new grandstand and the installation of a state-of-the-art turf course. These renovations helped to establish Arlington Park as one of the premier horse racing tracks in the United States.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Arlington Park has faced significant challenges, including declining attendance and revenue. In 2020, the track’s owner, Churchill Downs Incorporated, announced plans to sell the property to the Chicago Bears, who intend to build a new stadium on the site. However, the sale is still pending, and the future of Arlington Park remains uncertain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arlington Race Track is partially located in Cook County, with a small portion of the village of Arlington Heights extending into Lake County. While the track’s location may be subject to some boundary disputes, its rich history and reputation as a premier horse racing venue are undeniable. As the future of Arlington Park remains uncertain, fans of horse racing can only hope that this beloved track will continue to thrive for generations to come.
| Year | Event | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1981 | Arlington Million | John Henry |
| 1990 | Arlington Million | Golden Pheasant |
Other Nearby Attractions
If you’re planning a visit to Arlington Park, there are plenty of other nearby attractions to explore. Some popular options include:
- The Village of Arlington Heights: This charming village offers a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Arlington Heights Historical Museum.
- The Chicago Botanic Garden: Located just a few miles from Arlington Park, this beautiful garden features over 2.7 million plants and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Getting to Arlington Park
Arlington Park is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available on site. If you’re using public transportation, the track is served by the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line, with trains running regularly from Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Is Arlington Race Track in Cook County?
Arlington Park, also known as Arlington International Racecourse, is indeed located in Cook County, Illinois. Specifically, it is situated in the village of Arlington Heights, which is approximately 27 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. The track has been a staple in the area since 1927 and has hosted numerous high-profile horse racing events over the years.
The track’s location in Cook County has made it easily accessible to fans from the Chicago metropolitan area. Its proximity to the city has also contributed to its popularity, with many racing enthusiasts making the short trip to Arlington Heights to enjoy a day of horse racing.
What type of horse racing events are held at Arlington Race Track?
Arlington Park is primarily known for hosting Thoroughbred horse racing events. The track features a one-mile dirt track and a seven-furlong turf track, allowing for a variety of racing distances and surfaces. Throughout the year, Arlington Park hosts numerous stakes races, including the Arlington Million, which is one of the most prestigious turf races in the United States.
In addition to Thoroughbred racing, Arlington Park has also hosted other equestrian events, such as polo matches and horse shows. However, Thoroughbred racing remains the track’s main focus, with a racing season that typically runs from May to September.
Can I attend a horse racing event at Arlington Race Track?
Yes, Arlington Park is open to the public and welcomes fans to attend its horse racing events. The track offers a variety of seating options, including grandstand seating, box seats, and luxury suites. Fans can also enjoy dining and beverage options at the track, ranging from casual concessions to upscale restaurants.
To attend a horse racing event at Arlington Park, fans can purchase tickets online or at the track’s box office. The track also offers special promotions and events throughout the season, such as themed days and giveaways. Fans are encouraged to check the track’s website for the latest information on upcoming events and ticket availability.
Is Arlington Race Track open year-round?
Arlington Park is not open year-round for live horse racing. The track’s racing season typically runs from May to September, with the exact dates varying from year to year. During this time, the track hosts live racing events on a regular basis, usually on Thursdays, Fridays, and weekends.
However, the track’s facilities are open year-round for other events and activities, such as simulcasting, dining, and private events. Fans can visit the track’s website to check the schedule and plan their visit accordingly.
Can I place bets on horse racing events at Arlington Race Track?
Yes, Arlington Park offers pari-mutuel wagering on its live horse racing events. Fans can place bets on-site at the track’s wagering windows or through self-service betting terminals. The track also offers simulcasting, allowing fans to bet on horse racing events from other tracks around the country.
In addition to on-site wagering, Arlington Park also offers online betting through its partnership with a licensed online wagering platform. This allows fans to place bets from the comfort of their own homes or on-the-go using their mobile devices.
Is Arlington Race Track family-friendly?
Yes, Arlington Park is a family-friendly venue that welcomes fans of all ages. The track offers a variety of activities and amenities for children, including a playground, face painting, and pony rides. The track also hosts special family-themed days throughout the season, featuring activities such as bounce houses and petting zoos.
In addition to these activities, Arlington Park also offers a variety of dining options that are suitable for families. The track’s casual concessions and restaurants offer a range of kid-friendly food options, making it easy for families to enjoy a day of horse racing together.
Can I take a tour of Arlington Race Track?
Yes, Arlington Park offers guided tours of its facilities. The track’s tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the racing operation, including the paddock, jockeys’ room, and winner’s circle. Fans can also get a glimpse of the track’s historic grandstand and learn about its rich history.
Tours are typically available on non-racing days and can be scheduled in advance through the track’s website or by contacting the track’s tour department. The track also offers special tour packages that include admission to the track’s museum and other amenities.