Top Breweries Near Iconic Horse RacingTracks

After going to your favorite race, picking the right outfit, and placing a bet, that is something more than just a victory. Although some of the big horse racing events are dominated by their iconic cocktails, there is nothing better than that cold beer during or after the race.

Not many people understand but watching a horse race is actually hard work. You get to spend most of your day on your feet, and in some cases in an uncomfortable outfit just to look stylish. So, by the end of the event, you are almost instantly Googling the nearest brewery where you can get a proper drink.

Fortunately, some of the most iconic horse racing tracks almost always have a nearby brewery. Why? Well, although horse racing isn’t a horse where beer is the most popular drink, it is often the most the best choice after a hot day.

On top of that, these breweries follow along with the same historical and traditional vibe that some of these iconic racetracks have, which makes them the perfect combo.

So, let’s highlight some of the best breweries that are situated near an iconic racetrack.

1. Churchill Downs (Louisville, KY) – Against the Grain Brewery

Home of the Kentucky Derby

Distance from Track: 10-minute drive

It’s no surprise that the list starts with the big boys in the league – Churchill Downs. The track attracts close to 200,000 visitors every year, so opening a local brewery nearby is the best business idea you can come up with. 

After all, there is no better place to discuss horse racing betting strategies than a pub. Just don’t let the beer reveal your handicapping secrets before joining horse tourneys.

Unfortunately, for new entrepreneurs, there is already a local brewery called Against the Grain Brewery, and it is quite popular with most people who visit Churchill Downs.

Their craft beer is exceptional, which explains why Against the Grain Brewery is the most people’s go-to after the Kentucky Derby.

So, you are there but don’t know what to pick and you don’t want that same old boring choice of a craft beer. Well, you should go for their popular Citra Ass Down or for the brave ones that don’t mind a strong beer The Brown Note. 

If you want to stick to light beer, you should try their Bo & Luke delicious beer, which is a rich bourbon barrel-aged stout, that will make you rethink your life choices.

This brewery was founded in 2011 and quickly became popular. Now, they export to 43 states and 25 countries.

2. Del Mar Racetrack (Del Mar, CA) – Viewpoint Brewing Co.

Where the Turf Meets the Surf

Distance from Track: 5-minute drive

After soaking in that Pacific breeze and watching thoroughbreds thunder down the track, slide over to Viewpoint Brewing Co. With expansive views of the San Dieguito Lagoon, this spot’s got beer and scenery in spades.

• Must-Try Brews:
  • Del Martian Red Ale – Named after the locals who swear they’re “Martians.”
  • Citra Crush – A juicy IPA that’ll make you forget your horse came in dead last.

Bonus: They serve up gastropub delights like brisket tacos and poutine. Because nothing comforts post-bet blues like carbs.

3. Keeneland (Lexington, KY) – West Sixth Brewing

The Heart of Bluegrass Country

Distance from Track: 15-minute drive

Keeneland is where Southern charm meets elite racing, and West Sixth Brewing is where craft beer meets community vibes. Located in a former bread factory (yup, carbs on carbs), this spot is a local fave.

• Top Pick:
  • West Sixth IPA – A balanced IPA that pairs perfectly with Kentucky horse talk.
  • Pay It Forward Cocoa Porter – Because nothing says “next round is on me” like chocolatey goodness.

Fun fact: West Sixth donates 6% of profits to local causes. So, if your horse didn’t donate to your wallet, at least your beer did some good.

4. Saratoga Racecourse (Saratoga Springs, NY) – Druthers Brewing Co.

The Summer Place to Be

Distance from Track: 5-minute drive

Saratoga’s racing season is legendary, and the same can be said for its beer scene. Enter Druthers Brewing Co. This spot dishes out bold beers and next-level mac & cheese.

If you manage to find yourself here, make sure you choose:

• All-In IPA – Perfect if you went “all-in” on a bet and still lost.
• The Dare – A crisp pilsner that’s exactly what you need when the summer heat hits.

Plus, with their outdoor beer garden, it’s easy to spend hours here, win or lose. Seriously, those Adirondack chairs are a trap.

5. Santa Anita Park (Arcadia, CA) – Mt. Lowe Brewing Co.

Racing with Mountain Views

Distance from Track: 7-minute drive

When you’ve watched horses tear through Santa Anita’s pristine course (with the San Gabriel Mountains as a backdrop), reward yourself at Mt. Lowe Brewing Co. It’s a chill, laid-back joint serving up top-notch pints.

So, which are the top choices? Well, I’d go for:

• Mt. Lowe Pilsner – Clean, classic, and no-nonsense.
• Wicked White – A Belgian-style wheat ale that hits just right after a sunny race day.

They’ve also got a cool train-themed vibe because, apparently, horsepower and train power go hand in hand.

6. Belmont Park (Elmont, NY) – Barrier Brewing Co.

Home of the Belmont Stakes

Distance from Track: 15-minute drive

Belmont Park is all about the long game (hello, Triple Crown), and so is Barrier Brewing Co. Known for pushing boundaries, Barrier offers some seriously innovative brews.

Wondering which are their best options? Go for:

Money IPA – Because even if you didn’t win, you felt rich for a second or Deadly Combination – A series of hazy IPAs that change with each batch. Kinda like your betting strategy.

Insider Tip: They often host food trucks and live music. So, you can drown your losses in tunes and tacos.

Final Words

Opening a brewing company right beside a racetrack actually makes sense. After all, many of the fans might act fancy and sip on a cocktail during the race, but after it finishes, all of them are looking for a place to grab a beer.