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Top 24 Hotels Near Penn National Race Course
777 Hollywood Blvd Grantville, PA 17028
Holiday Inn Harrisburg - Hershey Area I-81 by IHG
In Grantville, Holiday Inn Harrisburg - Hershey Area I-81 by IHG is situated an easy drive from Penn National Race Course, a position that fosters a sense of control over the itinerary.
Lobby layouts at Holiday Inn & Suites feature symmetry and bright finishes, creating consistent arrival impressions globally. Guest rooms emphasize ergonomic workstations, strong Wi-Fi, and lighting, keeping productivity and comfort balanced while traveling. Breakfast setups including hot selections, cereals, and coffee simplify day-start routines, making mornings stress-free for all guests.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and indoor pools align with parking and business spaces, creating balance for professional travelers.
Days Inn by Wyndham Grantville Hershey North
The primary travel benefit of Days Inn by Wyndham Grantville Hershey North in Grantville is Penn National Race Course being a simple drive away, ensuring a simple arrival.
Days Inn positions room-range boards and elevator icons at eye level, making first walks to corridors and restrooms direct and unhurried. Each guest room keeps independent temperature control and blackout liners, supporting steady rest across varied schedules and seasons. Business corners keep PCs, printers, and a counter-height surface together, turning labels and boarding passes into quick on-site stops.
From breakfast seating, steady coffee, and Wi-Fi to a computer station and printers, morning tasks and quick labels finish neatly on site.
Best Western Grantville / Hershey
Reaching Penn National Race Course from Best Western Grantville / Hershey is a simple drive, a feature that allows for a more flexible daily schedule.
Best Western posts concise wayfinding—arrows, placards, and floor decals—so newcomers find elevators, restrooms, and meeting points without backtracking. All suites can include city or courtyard outlooks where available, bringing natural light that lifts mood while guests regroup indoors. Meeting floors connect salons and prefunction space with wayfinding, smoothing flow during small conferences, reunions, or training days.
From pools where available, family rooms, breakfast, and pet amenities, comfort and inclusion stay visible without extra errands.
Tru by Hilton Grantville PA
The benefit of being a straightforward drive from Penn National Race Course makes Tru by Hilton Grantville PA into a great starting point for any visit.
The hotel lobby features a convenient game zone, allowing guests to relax and engage in a bit of friendly competition right upon arrival. At the lounge zone, couches, communal tables, and bold murals provide spaces for families or groups to regroup comfortably daily. At the game zone, shuffleboard, foosball, and casual seating encourage friendly competition and group connection during downtime.
Guests access breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, and business spaces, making it easy to stay productive while enjoying consistent routines.
Hampton Inn Harrisburg / Grantville/Hershey
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, with Penn National Race Course a straightforward drive away, framing the stay around easy automotive access.
Hampton Inn lobbies combine sofa clusters and community seating, creating versatile regrouping spaces for both families and teams. Guest rooms contain smart HDTVs, streaming access, and ergonomic chairs, giving travelers dependable entertainment for evening relaxation. Grab-and-go lobby markets with drinks, packaged meals, and snacks create convenience, reducing small stresses for traveling guests.
Complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly policies, business spaces, Wi-Fi connectivity, and laundry services ensure comfort and reliability.
MainStay Suites Grantville - Hershey North
For a trip to Grantville, MainStay Suites Grantville - Hershey North's location an easy drive from Penn National Race Course is an essential piece of its appeal.
MainStay Suites staffs multilingual hosts at many gateway locations, reducing language friction when guests request transit or dining guidance. Every suite supplies coffee, glassware, and basic condiments, turning small morning rituals into simple, reliable moments before the day begins. Fitness corners include free weights, bikes, and mirror walls, enabling short strength sessions or warm-ups prior to events.
Between fitness corners, rooftop seating, breakfast areas, free Wi-Fi, and laundry, guests balance movement, food, and upkeep without leaving site.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Harrisburg Northeast - Hershey
This useful drive to Penn National Race Course from Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Harrisburg Northeast - Hershey is a central element, because it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Radisson sets tall communal tables with integrated outlets near reception so short work sessions and device charging happen without delay. Every guest room provides a hairdryer, ironing essentials, and clear vanity lighting, keeping grooming and prep straightforward before departures. Breakfast buffets feature hot items, fruit displays, and beverage counters, so guests can choose speed or a fuller sit-down morning start.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast service, pool or fitness access, meetings, laundry, and pet touches, the hotel covers everyday travel needs.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Harrisburg-Hershey
From La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Harrisburg-Hershey, Penn National Race Course is a simple drive, a choice that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Breakfast spaces at La Quinta, visible from lobbies, create clarity and confidence for travelers preparing for their day ahead. Guest rooms feature Bright Morning Beds®, blackout curtains, and climate control, ensuring restorative rest for every guest stay. Meeting spaces designed with AV equipment, breakout tables, and flexible seating layouts provide clarity for professional groups.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and self-parking connect with fitness facilities and pools, creating balance during each stay.
avid Hotel Harrisburg NE Hershey Area by IHG
The journey from avid Hotel Harrisburg NE Hershey Area by IHG to Penn National Race Course is a direct run, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Guests at avid Hotel Harrisburg NE Hershey Area by IHG may encounter efficient desk service, vending access, and on-site parking that emphasize predictable arrivals. Rooms may highlight premium linens, rainfall showers, and curated décor, reinforcing a comfortable and modern environment for stays. Shared spaces may feature breakfast rooms, vending access, and compact business corners that support both clarity and productivity.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, guest laundry, and parking, reflecting the functional style of budget accommodations.
Super 8 by Wyndham Harrisburg Hershey North
Penn National Race Course is a simple drive of Super 8 by Wyndham Harrisburg Hershey North, a feature that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Reception counters at Super 8 are staffed 24/7, ensuring orientation support and dependable service are always available to guests. Each guest room provides flat-screen TVs, bedside charging, and microwaves, supporting entertainment and simple convenience daily. Pools featuring loungers, towels, and umbrellas deliver spaces where families and solo travelers alike can relax and recharge easily.
Pet policies, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets combine with vending and parking, providing predictable clarity for family travelers.
Econo Lodge Harrisburg - Hershey North
In Grantville, Econo Lodge Harrisburg - Hershey North is situated a simple cross-town drive from Penn National Race Course, a position that fosters a sense of calm.
Upon arrival, Econo often positions a lobby coffee or tea station beside reception so guests can warm up and settle before heading upstairs to rooms. Every guest room supplies a desk lamp, ample outlets, a mini-fridge and free Wi-Fi so both evening rest and morning tasks stay covered. Fitness centers place treadmills, strength stations and a stretching area plus visible water and towels so short workouts fit between travel plans.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, meeting spaces, a fitness area, vending and laundry, both work and rest are reliably supported on site.
Scottish Inns & Suites Harrisburg - Hershey North
The benefit of a simple drive to Penn National Race Course renders Scottish Inns & Suites Harrisburg - Hershey North into a great hub before the main experience begins.
The clean and practical design of the Scottish Inns lobby ensures a no-nonsense first impression for value-conscious travelers. Some locations offer upgraded suites or rooms with a whirlpool tub, providing a touch of extra luxury for a more relaxing experience. Vending machines provide around-the-clock access to refreshments, a reliable amenity for travelers who may be arriving late at night.
With an outdoor pool, a pet-friendly policy, free Wi-Fi, and rooms with microwaves, guests can enjoy their trip without extra costs.
Holiday Inn Express Harrisburg I-81 – Hershey by IHG
Penn National Race Course is an uncomplicated drive of Holiday Inn Express Harrisburg I-81 – Hershey by IHG, a convenience that allows for easy travel to other local points.
Lobby designs at Holiday Inn Express emphasize symmetry and bright lighting, easing orientation and providing dependable comfort. Suites add lounge areas, multiple televisions, and sofa beds, supporting extended-stay comfort and group flexibility consistently. Business lounges designed with workstations, internet access, and seating nooks provide productivity support beyond the guest room.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and indoor pools join with laundry and pet accommodations, creating dependable care for longer visits.
Friendly Inn Motel
When the primary destination in Grantville is Penn National Race Course, Friendly Inn Motel's location a simple drive away allows the focus to remain on the visit.
At Friendly Inn Motel, arrivals may include modest reception, exterior parking, and vending areas that maintain straightforward guest routines. Rooms may include climate control, Wi-Fi, and compact bathrooms, ensuring clarity and reliability for all overnight guest routines. Facilities often provide compact breakfast rooms, vending access, and modest seating that sustain reliable routines for budget travelers.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, pet-friendly options, vending machines, and parking, reinforcing consistent balance during budget-friendly visits.
Comfort Inn & Suites Harrisburg-Hershey North
Penn National Race Course is within easy reach of Comfort Inn & Suites Harrisburg-Hershey North, a detail that allows for a smooth and integrated daily plan.
After travel Comfort Inn reception areas commonly offer quick access to water, coffee, or a grab-and-go shelf for simple refreshment. Every guest room supplies a safe and discreet storage nook that secures valuables while the room stays tidy and work-ready. The lobby routes circulation cleanly from doors to elevators while preserving conversation nooks for informal catch-ups or briefings.
For pet travelers, designated relief areas, pet policies, nearby green space, and pet-friendly rooms keep routines predictable.
Motel 6-Harrisburg PA - Hershey North
From Motel 6-Harrisburg PA - Hershey North, the direct run to Penn National Race Course avoids complex roads for a clear journey, making travel easy.
With 24-hour coverage, Motel 6 provides reliable late-night orientation, ensuring guests are never stranded without staff support. Every guest room provides a private bathroom with shower or tub, ensuring routine hygiene remains simple and consistent during travel days. Vending corridors pair with ice machines, helping guests prepare coolers or evening drinks without leaving the property footprint.
With truck parking at select sites, vending, free coffee, and Wi-Fi, amenities simplify logistics and travel-day essentials predictably.
Sleep Inn & Suites Harrisburg - Hershey North
Reaching Penn National Race Course from Sleep Inn & Suites Harrisburg - Hershey North is a direct drive, a quality that weaves ease into the start of any day.
Sleep Inn locations commonly offer free Grab & Go breakfast information at arrival, helping guests plan mornings before heading to rooms. Each guest room centers on a sizeable desk, in-room coffee, a mini-fridge and premium bedding so routines stay uninterrupted and calm. Breakfast areas provide hot buffet stations, grab-and-go picks and seating with outlets so mornings stay efficient and predictable.
Between free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a fitness room, meeting spaces, a marketplace and guest laundry, travelers find simple reliability.
Hampton Inn & Suites Hershey Near The Park
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Hampton Inn & Suites Hershey Near The Park guests a direct way to manage their regional schedule.
Casual décor and open layouts in Hampton Inn receptions produce dependable clarity, helping travelers orient easily from the start. Each suite features closets, luggage benches, and drawer storage, offering practical organization that supports longer guest stays. Breakfast rooms with pastries, cereals, and hot entrees create dependable clarity, ensuring mornings unfold smoothly for every guest.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, breakfast buffets, and outdoor pools provide flexible convenience for diverse travelers.
Quality Inn & Suites
The benefit of using Quality Inn & Suites as a sensible base turns it into a great anchor point before the main experience.
At check-in Quality Inn highlights luggage storage and early-check options so guests can lighten loads and head out while rooms are readied. Rooms place clear pathways from door to desk to bed, reducing friction for late arrivals and making departures less stressful and faster. Pre-function areas adjacent to meeting suites supply staging space, water, and coffee so sessions start punctually and transitions stay organized.
Amenities that combine Wi-Fi, breakfast, fitness, and meeting space help travel routines feel cohesive and efficient day after day.
Spark by Hilton Hershey Near The Park
Within the region, Spark by Hilton Hershey Near The Park acts as a practical base, a detail that allows the hotel to feel well-connected.
At Hilton, evening cocktail service in the lobby bar provides rituals that ease transitions and highlight brand-wide hospitality. Guest rooms combine Serenity Beds, blackout curtains, and climate control, ensuring restful nights and refreshed mornings reliably. At the indoor pool, loungers, lighting, and clean towels combine to offer families dependable spaces for refreshment and leisure.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, dining outlets, and business centers, Hilton provides consistent amenities worldwide.
Dutch Motel Palmyra
This convenient function as a base is a central aspect of Dutch Motel Palmyra, as it facilitates a smooth and easy visit to Penn National Race Course.
Guests at Dutch Motel Palmyra may find vending machines, compact lobbies, and exterior entries that sustain simple and reliable travel ease. Each guest room often presents cable TV, Wi-Fi, and modest bedding, sustaining functional comfort throughout budget-conscious travel. Public areas may include vending corners, laundry facilities, and modest lobbies that help maintain consistent support for daily stays.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, vending machines, ice dispensers, and parking, helping travelers sustain practical clarity during each stay.
Knights Inn Palmyra
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Knights Inn Palmyra guests a direct way to manage their regional travel.
Knights Inn uses clear desk signage for ID, payment, and key steps, reducing back-and-forth so travelers settle in without confusion at all. Suites may include a dining table and larger refrigerator, supporting simple meals and shared planning time across longer stays comfortably. Meeting suites divide into breakout sections with rolling boards, making workshops or small reunions straightforward to stage on site.
With breakfast, free Wi-Fi, laundry, and a hot tub where offered, recovery and routines align neatly between daytime plans and late returns.
Sunrise Inn Hershey
From Sunrise Inn Hershey, Penn National Race Course is an easy regional drive, a detail that makes for a well-planned trip.
Sunrise Inn Hershey typically offers practical front desk help, complimentary parking, and compact lobby space that supports budget arrivals. Each guest room often includes ergonomic seating, compact work surfaces, and Wi-Fi, helping maintain productivity while away from home. Facilities typically present vending stations, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that create a functional base for everyday travel.
A stay often includes Wi-Fi, vending corners, laundry facilities, and breakfast areas, helping maintain practical clarity each day.
Red Roof Inn Hershey
The benefit of using Red Roof Inn Hershey as a convenient base renders it into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
A cornerstone of the Red Roof Inn experience is the free pet policy, a welcome feature that provides immediate value right from check-in. A clean, minimalist design in each guest room creates an uncluttered and calming environment that helps travelers relax and feel at ease. Guest laundry facilities are a practical amenity for sports teams or families, helping them keep uniforms and clothes clean on the road.
From free local calls and Wi-Fi for business to a pool for fun, the hotel's amenities cater to a wide spectrum of traveler needs.
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Penn National Race Course Local Area Guide
Welcome to Penn National Race Course, a premier destination for live horse racing and entertainment. This guide is designed for fans and visitors planning a trip to the track, offering practical insights into navigating the venue, its surroundings, and making the most of your event day. Discover essential information on timing, transportation, nearby amenities, and local flavor to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Penn National Race Course (Grantville, PA)
Penn National Race Course is situated in Grantville, Pennsylvania, a community nestled within the scenic Cumberland Valley, east of Harrisburg. The venue is easily accessible via major highways, primarily Interstate 81, which runs north-south, and U.S. Route 22, offering an east-west corridor. Its location provides a balance between rural charm and proximity to urban amenities, with Harrisburg just a short drive away. Visitors arriving by air will typically use Harrisburg International Airport (HIA), located approximately 15-20 miles southwest. Driving times from HIA can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking at the track is generally straightforward, with ample lots available for patrons, though specific sections may fill up during major racing days. Public transportation options directly to the track are limited, making car or rideshare services the most common methods of arrival. Smart planning involves checking event schedules for potential traffic impacts and aiming to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the first race or special event to secure good parking and avoid entry queues.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Penn National Race Course
Hotels are clustered in the areas surrounding Harrisburg and Hershey, typically within a 15 to 30-minute drive of Penn National Race Course. Many visitors opt for accommodations in these larger towns due to the wider selection of hotels and amenities. While Grantville itself has limited lodging, the nearby towns offer everything from budget-friendly motels to mid-range and upscale hotels catering to visitors attending events at the track or the many attractions in Hershey. Parking at the track is usually plentiful, but demand surges during larger racing events and special promotions. When booking your stay, consider booking well in advance, especially if traveling during popular racing seasons or on weekends. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a 10-15 mile radius of the track can help identify convenient options. Flexible dates can also sometimes yield better rates, though race days are generally fixed.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is about a 25-minute drive away.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes before post time for prime parking and easy entry.
- Walkable spots are limited to the track's amenities; explore Harrisburg for more.
- Rainy-day fallback includes simulcast racing and indoor dining options at the track.
- Regroup at the Grandstand Bar or one of the trackside eateries for easy access.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before the first post time or your event's scheduled start. This buffer allows ample time to navigate parking areas and find your preferred spot, whether you're aiming for proximity to the grandstand or a quieter location. Once parked, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout, noting the locations of entrances, restrooms, and food service areas. Grab any necessary programs or betting information early, as kiosks can get busy closer to race time. Use this pre-race window to settle in, grab a beverage, and soak in the atmosphere before the action begins.
During the Event
Pace yourself throughout the racing program, allowing time between races to place bets, grab snacks, or visit the restroom. Consult the racing program for horse information and consider placing multiple bets to add excitement to different races. If you find yourself with a longer break between races, explore different areas of the grandstand or consider the simulcast areas if available. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and remember that betting windows and concession stands can experience peak times; planning short trips during less busy moments between races is advisable.
Post-Event & Departure
As the final race concludes, be prepared for a potential surge in traffic exiting the parking lots. If you're not in a hurry, consider staying a little longer to enjoy the track's atmosphere, review your betting slips, or grab a final refreshment. This can help you avoid the initial rush of departures. If you need to leave promptly, be patient and follow the directions of parking attendants. Allow for extra travel time back to your accommodation or next destination, as it’s common for roads around popular venues to experience congestion immediately following an event.
Things to Do Near Penn National Race Course
Walkable
Penn National Race Course Grandstand
The heart of the experience is the grandstand itself, offering panoramic views of the racing action. Here, you can place your bets, enjoy concessions, and immerse yourself in the thrill of live horse racing. Multiple levels provide different vantage points, from the bustling first floor to elevated seating areas. Don't miss the chance to explore the various betting windows and perhaps try your luck on a few races. It's the central hub for all activity, making it the primary point of interest during your visit.
On sitePenn National Race Course Paddock Area
Located adjacent to the grandstands, the paddock is where horses are paraded before each race. It's a fascinating area to observe the thoroughbreds up close, witness their condition, and study jockey silks before they head to the track. This is where the "paddock handicapping" comes into play for many avid bettors. Observing the horses and trainers here can offer valuable insights before you make your betting decisions, adding another layer of engagement to your race day.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
Adjacent to the racetrack, the Hollywood Casino offers a different kind of gaming excitement. While the track focuses on live racing, the casino provides a vast array of slot machines, table games, and electronic games. It's a perfect spot for those looking to extend their entertainment beyond the races or for a different pace. You can easily transition from the thrill of the track to the vibrant atmosphere of the casino for a full day or evening of gaming and entertainment options.
Grantville, PA · On siteSwatara State Park
For a change of pace and scenery, Swatara State Park offers a natural escape with opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing along the Swatara Creek. The park features extensive trails winding through woodlands and along the creek banks, providing a peaceful retreat. It's a great option for families or individuals looking for outdoor recreation before or after a day at the races. The park’s trails are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant experience for various activity levels.
Licking Creek, PA · 5.2 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity of the race course and casino, the larger Harrisburg and Hershey areas offer a wealth of attractions. Visitors can explore the State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg, visit Hershey's Chocolate World, or enjoy Hersheypark. These destinations are typically within a 20-30 minute drive, providing a broader range of entertainment and dining for those extending their stay in the region.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Penn National Race Course
Inside & Adjacent
The Silks Bar & Grille
Located within the Penn National Race Course, The Silks Bar & Grille offers a convenient dining experience with views of the track. It serves as a popular spot for patrons to enjoy meals and drinks while watching the races. The menu typically features classic American fare, making it a solid choice for a casual lunch or dinner. Its on-site location means you won't miss any of the live racing action while you dine.
On siteTrackside Dining at Penn National
Penn National Race Course features various concession stands and dining areas throughout the grandstand and clubhouse levels. These spots offer a range of quick bites, snacks, and beverages, perfect for fueling your day at the races. From hot dogs and burgers to more substantial meals, there are options to satisfy different cravings. It’s ideal for grabbing something quickly between races without venturing far from the betting windows.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Hollywood Casino Restaurants
The adjacent Hollywood Casino boasts several dining venues catering to various tastes. These range from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, offering patrons a diverse culinary experience. Whether you're looking for a quick bite between casino games or a sit-down meal, the casino's offerings provide ample choices. It’s a good option for those who want a wider selection of food and drink options without leaving the entertainment complex.
Grantville, PA · On siteThe Mill at Stouchsburg
This historic establishment offers a charming dining experience with a focus on American cuisine and craft beers. The Mill at Stouchsburg provides a cozy atmosphere, often featuring live music, making it a popular local spot. It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal after a day at the races, offering a taste of local flavor away from the immediate track environment. Reservations are often recommended, especially on weekends.
Stouchsburg, PA · 4.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Duke's Riverside Bar & Grill
Located along the Susquehanna River, Duke's offers a scenic dining experience with a menu of seafood, steaks, and American favorites. The restaurant provides a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, perfect for a pleasant evening out. Its riverside setting adds to the appeal, especially during warmer months when outdoor seating may be available. It’s a good choice for those seeking a quality meal with a view after attending events in the greater Harrisburg area.
Harrisburg, PA · 11.5 miHershey Pantry
A beloved institution in nearby Hershey, the Hershey Pantry is renowned for its hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches, and delectable baked goods. Housed in a former textile mill, it offers a cozy and rustic ambiance. While it can get busy, especially for breakfast and lunch, the quality of food and the charming setting make it a worthwhile stop for a more relaxed and satisfying meal experience. It's a staple for many visiting the Hershey area.
Hershey, PA · 10.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on I-81 can be unpredictable, so always check real-time conditions before heading to or from the track.
- Weekends, especially during major racing events, see the highest crowds and busiest parking.
- The casino and track operate as a single complex; amenities often overlap for patrons.
- Consider rideshare services if you plan to indulge in beverages, as parking is readily available.
- Grantville is a smaller community; most extensive dining and shopping requires a short drive to Harrisburg or Hershey.
Weather & Seasons at Penn National Race Course
- Winter: Winter at Penn National can be cold, with temperatures often dipping into the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is possible, though less frequent than in more northern regions. Visitors should pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, hat, and gloves, especially if planning to spend extended time outdoors. Indoor viewing areas and the casino remain comfortable, but moving between them may require bundling up.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings milder temperatures, typically ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it an excellent time for live racing. As spring progresses into early summer, temperatures gradually rise, often reaching the 70s and 80s. Light layers are advisable, with a jacket or sweater useful for cooler mornings or evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the track.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July through August, is generally the warmest period, with temperatures frequently in the 80s and occasionally reaching the 90s Fahrenheit. Heat and humidity can be significant factors, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Staying hydrated is essential; bring water or be prepared to purchase it frequently. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly advisable for outdoor viewing.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit. This season is particularly pleasant for attending races, as the foliage in the surrounding countryside begins to change. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient for most days, though evenings can become cooler. It's a visually appealing time to visit the scenic area.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur in any season, sometimes leading to track conditions affecting race schedules or necessitating indoor viewing. Be prepared with an umbrella or rain jacket. Snow is primarily a winter concern and can cause delays or cancellations of live racing, though the casino generally remains open. Check the track's schedule and local forecasts if severe weather is anticipated.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Thoroughbreds
- Neighborhood: Grantville, PA
- Nearest airport: Harrisburg International Airport (HIA)
- Parking: Ample on-site lots
- Walkable district: Primarily the race course and adjacent casino
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Limited in Grantville, available in nearby Harrisburg/Hershey
- Pharmacy: Available in surrounding towns
- Urgent care: Available in Harrisburg and Hershey
- Downtime: Relax at the casino, explore local parks, or visit Harrisburg attractions
- Pro tip: Check the racing schedule for special events or stakes races for the best atmosphere.

