Experience the Thrill of Thoroughbred Racing at Pimlico Race Course

Did you know the Mid-Atlantic's largest single-day sporting event is held right here in Baltimore every May? No, it's not the Orioles' home opener (that's April 6, BTW). It's the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Baltimore's historic Pimlico Race Course is home to this world-renowned event and numerous other horse races, giving fans plenty of opportunities to witness these powerful animals thunder full-throttle around the track in pursuit of victory.

When you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast, you are less than 20 minutes from Pimlico Race Course. It's the second-oldest racetrack in the United States, behind only Saratoga Race Course in New York. It was opened in 1870 and has been the home of the Preakness Stakes since its inception. The track has a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong (0.87 mile) turf course. The grandstand at Pimlico is a historic structure that has been in use since 1899 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

2023 will mark the 148th running of the Preakness, set for Saturday, May 20. The inaugural Preakness Stakes was held in 1873 with a purse of $2,050, making it one of the largest purses for a single race in America at that time. The race quickly gained popularity and became a staple of the Baltimore sports scene. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most prestigious races in all of horse racing—and it continues to draw tens of thousands of race-goers every year.

The Preakness joins the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes to make up the Triple Crown. The Preakness is the shortest race of the three, with horses running 1 3/16 miles on Baltimore's famous dirt track. The winner of the race receives the Woodlawn Vase, a trophy made of sterling silver that was crafted by Tiffany & Co. in 1860 and worth over $4 million. The trophy is kept at the Baltimore Museum of Art and brought to the Preakness Stakes each year escorted by Maryland Army National Guard soldiers and Air National Guard airmen to the winner's circle for the presentation ceremony.

On race days at Pimlico, you can expect a high-energy atmosphere filled with excitement and fun! In addition to the high-octane adrenaline rush that only thoroughbred horse racing can offer, there will be plenty of food vendors and bars available onsite to keep you fueled throughout your visit. You also can dine in the Terrace Dining Room that overlooks the track. Take advantage of activities like the Sunrise Tours for unique access to the thrilling world thoroughbred racing. And don't forget to check out all of the souvenirs so you can bring something home to remind you of your Baltimore getaway.                                                                                                                                                       

After more than 150 years, Pimlico Race Course remains an important fixture in the world of horse racing. The track and its signature race – the Preakness – are cultural touchstones in Baltimore, and the track's history and significance make it an important part of American sporting history. When making your travel plans for the Preakness or any of Pimlico's other races, Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast is the perfect home base for a weekend at the races.