Horse racing thrills await at tracks around Louisiana

If you're fond of gambling action, you probably already know that Louisiana holds abundant casino gaming opportunities. But you may not be aware of the horse-racing excitement that's also available at tracks in Shreveport-Bossier, Vinton, Opelousas and New Orleans.

In north Louisiana, head for the eastern edge of Bossier City and step into Harrah’s Louisiana Downs, which boasts one of the nation’s highest-quality thoroughbred courses. The horses run on a May-through-October schedule. But you can gamble here at any time of the year in Harrah’s 150,000-square-foot casino and entertainment complex, which includes several restaurants.

To the south, visit the tracks in Opelousas and Vinton, and find luxurious accommodations, winning slots and off-track betting as well. Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino in Opelousas offers a state-of-the-art “racino” and a new one-mile oval. You’ll find a host of live-racing and off-track betting options, along with an array of slots and gaming choices, plus dining and live entertainment year-round.

Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino Hotel in Vinton presents both thoroughbred and quarter-horse seasons, along with simulcast events. And of course, year-round slot and video gambling, live entertainment, dining and overnight accommodations.

Back in New Orleans, the oldest gaming venue in town is also home to a recent expansion. Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots has been a showcase for the sport of kings since 1872. Now, in addition to seasonal thoroughbred racing (from November through March), Fair Grounds has a slots facility with 600 machines, plus simulcast wagering available year-round.

Add the thrill of horse racing to your Louisiana travel plans, and you'll discover one more reason why you'll want to come back again and again.