Minnesota, like many states in the Midwest, took a winding path to legalized betting. It wasn’t until 1982, through a constitutional amendment, that parimutuel wagering was written into state law.
In 1983, the Minnesota State Legislature created the Minnesota Racing Commission, which began in earnest to pave a path toward racetrack licensing. Since the mid-1980s, tracks have been a steadily growing component of Minnesota state culture.
With 2025 Breeders’ Cup contenders weighing on the mind of racing fans everywhere, now is an excellent time to acquaint yourself with Minnesota’s racing scene.
Racing Overview
At the time of writing, there are two popular racetracks in Minnesota. The first is Canterbury Park, the state’s very first legal track. Its history dates back to 1985, when it opened under the name Canterbury Downs.
Located in Shakopee, it remains a cornerstone of Minnesota’s racing culture.
Your other prominent option is Running Aces Casino, Hotel, and Racetrack, located in Columbus.
Both venues are conveniently situated within an easy 45-minute to one-hour drive from Minneapolis, making them accessible for day trips.
Live racing in Minnesota takes place during the summer months, typically running from May through September.
Canterbury Park
Here we have the first track to (legally) operate in the state of Minnesota. First opened in 1985 under the name Canterbury Downs, this classic venue offers what you’d expect. One-mile dirt oval track upon which thoroughbreds and quarter horses from all over the country test their grit.
If you’re a fan of racing your best bet is to go between May and September. That’s when their racing season is. And, if you want to narrow your days down even further, you’re likely to find particularly special fun in June.
That’s when Canterbury Park opens itself up to the world….Or at least the larger United States. The North Stars Turf Festival features several high-profile races.
Each one of these races features a six-figure purse and attracts teams from all over the place.
Your next best bet is to go in September. Canterbury Park ends its season with the Minnesota Festival of Champions. This year’s ending contest pits Minnesota’s best against each other.
There’s also plenty of weird family fun to be had at Canterbury Park. Rodeo days. Ostrich racing. Dog shows. Fireworks. Typical of race tracks, Canterbury Park has a clear policy where their seats are concerned. Figure out ways to fill them. Consequently, you’ll often find fun events even when the racing season is over.
Running Aces
Then there’s Running Aces. 5/8-mile harness oval. Standardbred racing. Open in Columbus, the Running Aces Casino and Hotel does a little bit more to attract year-round attendance. There’s lodging, restaurants, year-round simulcast wagering, card room. Also? Free admission!
Its most well-known event is called the Night of Champions. One wonders who has the better champions, Canterbury or Running Aces Casino? In fact, there’s likely to be considerable overlap. Located not so far from each other, they’re effectively attracting the same talent.
This is a newer venue. It opened in 2008. And while one could imagine a sort of ferocious competition between Aces and Canterbury, they’ve actually, in some ways, developed alongside one another.
When Aces opened its doors, it did so as a dedicated harness venue, and in that way, it complements the thoroughbred racing that takes place at Canterbury.
Support Minnesota Racing
Two tracks might not sound like much, and in another era of American racing history, it wouldn’t have been. But in today’s climate, with racetracks closing across the country, Minnesota’s two thriving venues are something special. The fact that one of them opened as recently as 2008 is a remarkable testament to the strength of the state’s racing culture.
The only thing left to do? Support them. If you live anywhere near Minneapolis, both Canterbury Park and Running Aces are within easy reach. Better yet, a day at the track is affordable fun. You don’t have to place a single wager to enjoy the races—the thrill of the horses in motion is worth the trip on its own. Of course, betting adds another layer of excitement, but that’s entirely up to you.
What matters most is helping to sustain an industry no one wants to see disappear. With free admission and parking, showing your support couldn’t be simpler.
Do you need extra motivation? While going to a horse race is not the sort of activity one can do with the same self-righteousness as, say, donating to a food pantry, or eating every piece of broccoli that ever finds its way onto their plate, it does support the local economy. Tracks create hundreds of jobs and millions in tax revenue. Go for the fun. Stay for the great state of Minnesota.