No need to hold your horses! After a three-year closure, one of New York’s most iconic racetracks is finally back.
Belmont Park is officially reopening, following a massive $555 million reconstruction that has transformed the Elmont, New York, venue into a brand-new racing facility designed for the modern era.
The new Belmont Park is a far cry from the sprawling grandstand that once welcomed as many as 100,000 spectators. That historic structure, which dated back to 1905, has been replaced with a significantly smaller facility featuring modern stadium-style amenities, including 31 suites, a sports bar, and a giant video screen overlooking the infield.
Now, the horses are heading back to Elmont. Here’s everything to know about Belmont Park’s reopening, what’s new, and what you can expect on opening day.
When is Belmont Park reopening?
Belmont Park will officially reopen to the public on Friday, September 18, 2026, marking the end of its three-year hiatus.
Gates open at 11 a.m., with the first race scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Eight additional races will follow throughout the afternoon, with the final race scheduled for 6:24 p.m. Friday’s tickets have already sold out, but tickets for Saturday and Sunday are still available, with admission starting at $10.
What’s new at the $555 million Belmont Park?
The biggest change is impossible to miss: the old grandstand is gone. The original Belmont Park grandstand opened in 1905 and could accommodate up to 100,000 people. The new facility is considerably smaller, but it has been designed around a more modern, stadium-like experience.
Visitors can expect 31 suites, a sports bar, a massive infield video screen, and other updated amenities throughout the new facility. The reconstruction was intended to create a venue better suited to 21st-century horse racing while giving fans a more modern place to watch the races.
What is the biggest race on opening day?
One of the biggest highlights of opening day will be the Jockey Gold Cup, scheduled for 4:14 p.m. The race carries an automatic qualification spot for the Breeders’ Cup Classic, making it one of the major events on the opening-day schedule.
With nine races planned throughout the afternoon, there will be plenty happening on the track beyond the headline event.
Why was Belmont Park closed?
Belmont Park closed for reconstruction in 2023, kicking off a massive redevelopment project that ultimately cost $555 million. The closure meant that one of New York’s most recognizable racing venues was temporarily out of commission while construction crews replaced the aging facility with a new complex.
The Belmont Stakes, traditionally held at Belmont Park, was moved to Saratoga Race Course during the reconstruction. Aqueduct also took on additional racing during the spring and fall. Now, after three years of construction, Belmont Park is ready to welcome spectators back.
How can you get to Belmont Park?
Belmont Park is located in Elmont, Long Island, making it accessible from NYC by public transportation as well as by car. The MTA offers several ways to reach the racetrack, including rail service and connections from New York City.
So whether you’re heading out for opening day or planning a future race-day trip, you won’t necessarily need to drive to experience the new Belmont Park.apter.
With live racing returning, a modernized venue, new hospitality spaces, and plenty of big races already on the calendar, Belmont Park is officially ready to welcome New Yorkers back to Elmont. 🏇