Fairgrounds

Address:1751 Gentilly Blvd
New Orleans, Louisiana

While it is not among the most important racetracks in the country, few hold as much history as the Fairgrounds Race Course in New Orleans. It opened in 1852, making it the third-oldest track in the United States and, with the exception of just a few years, has held races ever since. Currently, the track does not have any races above a Grade II level, but it does host the Louisiana Derby, one of the precursors to the Kentucky Derby.

The track holds almost 9,000 spectators, and holds most of its major races on the same day in March. It also hosts the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in the spring. The Fairgrounds underwent renovations in 2006, as the track was damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In addition to racing, there are also slot machines at the Fair Grounds, making it a "racino."

The track is situated in the northern part of New Orleans, and is accessible via the 91 and 52 NORTA bus routes.