Join us for live racing and an evening fireworks display as we cross the finish line and celebrate Closing Day, September 25.

Is Arlington Park race track closing?

CHICAGO - After nearly 100 years, the historic Arlington International Racecourse is closing. Saturday will be the final day of racing in Arlington Park's history after its owners, Churchill Downs, announced plans to close the track and sell the massive 326-acre property.

Will Arlington Park have racing in 2021?

Earlier today, the Illinois Racing Board awarded Arlington International Racecourse with race dates for 2021. “This will be our 94th year of operation and Arlington remains committed to fans, guests, bettors, horsemen/horsewomen, and the community. ...

What will happen to Arlington Park Race Track?

Arlington officials announced they will lay off 237 employees as part of what they called the track's “permanent” closure on its last day of racing Saturday. Industry members say the closure is the end of a long, slow decline at the track, which used to employ more than 1,000 workers.

Why is Arlington International Racecourse closing?

The crux of Arlington closing down is the booming gambling industry. Downs owns nearby Rivers Casino, and doesn't want wagering competition so close. Horse owners hope to catch on at Hawthorne Racecourse on the Southwest Side, but there's simply not enough dates to go around.

Goodbye Arlington Race Track 2021

Did the Bears buy Arlington Park?

The Chicago Bears have signed an agreement to purchase Arlington Park, a spokesperson for Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Tuesday night. ... "Congratulations to the Chicago Bears for their professionalism and perseverance. It is clear they are committed to an exciting vision for their team and their fans.

Why is Churchill Downs selling Arlington Park?

Churchill Downs announced in February its intention to sell the 326-acre property in Arlington Heights. ... Soldier Field, which holds just 61,000 fans, is the smallest stadium in the NFL, so having 326 acres would allow the Bears to build a much bigger stadium and still have room for other developments, too.

Who bought Arlington Heights racetrack?

Churchill Downs Inc. said Wednesday morning it agreed to sell the property to the Bears for $197.2 million. The sale isn't expected to close until late 2022 or early 2023. The team told Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot about the purchase agreement Tuesday night.

What year did Arlington Park burn down?

1985: Arlington Park Racetrack Destroyed By Fire. This is CBS 2's coverage of the fire that destroyed the Arlington Park racetrack on July 31, 1985.

Is Arlington Park Race Track for sale?

In a deal that could change the face of Arlington Heights and the Northwest suburbs for decades to come, the Chicago Bears announced Wednesday a $197.2 million purchase agreement with Churchill Downs Inc. to buy the historic Arlington Park racetrack and the sprawling property surrounding it.

How much does it cost to get into Arlington Race Track?

General Admission: Entrance fees vary by date. Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Adults $8/Kids 4-17 $4 (online only). There is a $1 charge per order for online ticket purchases. There is a $2 surcharge per ticket if you buy purchase at the gate.

Do you have to wear a mask at Arlington Race Track?

Do's. Fully vaccinated Guests and Team Members are no longer required to wear masks in our facility at Arlington International Racecourse and Arlington OTB's. ... Wear one disposable mask underneath a cloth mask.

Is Arlington Race Track open today?

Arlington International Racecourse is closed.

Will the Bears move to Arlington Heights?

After years of talks and negotiations with Chicago officials, several league sources indicated that the Bears are strongly expected to move to Arlington Heights, Illinois, in 2026, when the team can buy its way out of its lease at Solider Field.

Why do the Bears want to leave Chicago?

Bears one step closer to ditching downtown Chicago after making major land purchase 35 miles outside of city. ... The Bears said in June that they made a bid for the land because they wanted to explore the possibility of building a new stadium there.

Has Arlington Park been sold?

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Bears have signed an agreement to purchase Arlington Park, a spokesperson for Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Tuesday night. In a statement, the spokesperson said the mayor was not surprised by that move, and that they remain committed to keeping the Bears in Chicago.

How did Richard Duchossois make his money?

World War II veteran

From 1952-1980 Duchossois was CEO of Thrall Car Manufacturing Company. Which was owned by his wife's father and was one of the nation's leading rail car manufacturers. In 1980, he purchased Chamberlain Manufacturing Corp. And became its Chairman.

When did they remodel Soldier Field?

As part of a nearly $400 million reconstruction project, the majority of Soldier Field was demolished with the exception of the exterior. The new Soldier Field broke ground on January 19, 2002. In just 20 months, the shortest construction time for a modern day stadium on record, the Project was completed.

How many acres is Arlington Park?

Currently, SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California sits on 298 acres of land, housing not only the stadium, but also retail locations, commercial office space, a hotel, green space, and residential space. Arlington Park is 326 acres of land.

Can you bring coolers into Arlington race Track?

Coolers or Carry-Ins containing outside food and beverages are NOT permitted. All items brought through Admission Gates are subject to inspection. Please note that gifts are also subject to inspection and must adhere to the Carry-In Policy.

What are the best seats at Arlington race Track?

Located on the 2nd and 3rd floors above General Admission, our reserved and box seating options provide a great elevated view of the races. With the purchase of a reserved or box seat, guests of Arlington International have assigned seats for the entire race card, with which they can come and go at their own leisure.