Laurel Park is a Thoroughbred racecourse in Laurel, Maryland, currently serving as the temporary home of the Preakness Stakes while Pimlico Race Course undergoes its historic redevelopment. With a capacity of approximately 10,000, it offers an intimate alternative to the sprawling venues that typically host Triple Crown races.
History and Significance
Laurel Park opened in 1911 and has been a fixture of Mid-Atlantic racing for over a century. The track hosted the prestigious Washington International Stakes from 1952 to 1994, a race that was one of the first truly international events in American racing and attracted European champions to compete on American soil. The course was the scene of a famous match race in 1938 between Seabiscuit and War Admiral, though that particular contest actually took place at Pimlico. Laurel Park’s own history is rich with major graded stakes, and its location between Baltimore and Washington D.C. has made it a hub for racing in the capital region.
The decision to host the Preakness at Laurel Park during Pimlico’s multi-year renovation project has thrust the track into the international spotlight. The Preakness moved to Laurel for the first time in 2025, bringing Triple Crown attention to a venue better known for its year-round racing program.
The Race Day Experience
Laurel Park’s more intimate setting creates a different atmosphere for the Preakness compared to the historic Pimlico. The crowd is closer to the action, the paddock viewing is excellent, and the racing surface is modern and well-maintained. The grandstand offers clear sightlines across the track, and on Preakness Day, the normally quiet venue buzzes with the energy of a major event. The Maryland racing community turns out in force, and the proximity to both Baltimore and Washington D.C. draws fans from across the Mid-Atlantic.
Facilities and Layout
The main track is a one-mile dirt oval, with the standard tight turns and relatively short stretches that characterize American racing. The facility includes simulcast wagering, dining areas, and a paddock that has been upgraded to handle the increased attention that comes with hosting the Preakness.
Location and Timezone
Laurel Park is located between Baltimore and Washington D.C. on Route 198 in Laurel, Maryland, in the Eastern Time zone (UTC-5, UTC-4 during daylight saving). Both cities are within 30 minutes by car, making the track easily accessible.
For the current time in Maryland, check Laurel time. For more on US time zones, see United States time.