During your stay with Central Reservations at one of our beautiful Ocean City vacation rentals, be sure to participate in one of the most unique traditions of this beautiful area – horse racing! Just like the world famous Ocean City boardwalk, horse racing is a huge part of this area’s history and culture.
Ocean Downs
If you are hoping to experience the thrill of this historic Maryland tradition, then Ocean Downs is the place for you. Located just ten minutes inland from our Ocean City vacation rentals, the track features live harness racing from June through September. Feeling lucky? Place your bets (if you’re 18 or older) and see if your favorite horse can take home the grand prize! Also, take in races from tracks all over the world with Ocean Downs’ simulcast offering. For your complete Maryland horse racing experience head over to Ocean Downs. If you can’t find your luck with the horses, try your hand at blackjack or slots! Ocean Downs also features a casino with a wide variety of gaming and dining options!
A Little History
Since the early days of American horse racing, Maryland and the Ocean City area specifically have been an important part of the action. Grandstand guests of Ocean Downs will be able to see the former site of the Glen Riddle Farm, located east of the track where a grove of trees now stands. In 1919 and 1920 these grounds were home to Man o’ War, the best horse ever to race. Triple Crown winner and Man o’ War’s son, War Admiral, also called the farm home in the late 1930s. Along with this impressive Ocean City racing heritage, Maryland is host to many other historic tracks. One such example, Pimlico Race Course, holds the legendary Preakness Stakes, the second jewel needed in the coveted Triple Crown.
Take a Ride
If you are interested in hopping up on a horse yourself while staying at one of our beautiful Ocean City vacation rentals, then visit one of the many stables in the area designed specifically to show you the ropes. Maryland is home to thousands of acres dedicated to riding, so finding a place to saddle up won’t be hard to do. Visit Holly Ridge Equestrian Center for horse riding instruction and guided scenic tours!
Central Reservations
Book your Maryland vacation with Central Reservations, and experience the heritage of horse racing just minutes away from all the best Ocean City vacation rentals. Visit our website to learn more about this beautiful slice of heaven!