The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and is held annually in Baltimore, Maryland. This historic race has been a part of Baltimore’s culture since 1873 and attracts thousands of spectators from around the world. The Preakness Stakes is not just a horse race, but an entire weekend of events, including concerts, food, and drink. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of the race, what to expect on race day, and things to do in Baltimore during Preakness weekend.

History of the Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes was first run in 1873 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The organizers named the race after the winning horse in the Dinner Party Stakes, a race that celebrated a new club formed in Baltimore in 1870. Over the years, the Preakness has become one of the most important races in American horse racing, with only the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes outranking it in prestige. The race has seen many famous horses win over the years, including Secretariat, Seattle Slew, and American Pharoah.

The Preakness Stakes was initially run as a handicap race until 1909, when it was switched to a weight-for-age race.

The Preakness Stakes Today

The Preakness Stakes is held on the third Saturday of May each year and is attended by over 100,000 spectators. The race day festivities include a variety of events, including concerts, food, and drinks. Three-year-old thoroughbred horses run the race over a distance of 1 3/16 miles. The winner of the Preakness Stakes receives a purse of $1.5 million and a chance to compete for the Triple Crown at the Belmont Stakes.

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In 2018, Justify won the Preakness Stakes and went on to win the Triple Crown, becoming only the 13th horse to achieve the feat.

Getting to Baltimore for the Preakness Stakes

Baltimore is easily accessible from several major cities, including Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. If you’re driving, there are several parking options available, although parking can be limited on race day. Public transportation, including the Baltimore Light Rail and Metro Subway, is also available, with shuttles running from the stations to the race course.

The Preakness Stakes is the second-most attended single-day sporting event in the United States, after the Indianapolis 500.

Things to Do in Baltimore During Preakness Weekend

Baltimore is a city with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene, and there is no shortage of things to do during Preakness Weekend. From exploring historic neighborhoods to enjoying the local food and drink scene, there is something for everyone. Some popular attractions to check out during Preakness weekend include the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and the Baltimore Museum of Art.

Baltimore is known for its delicious crab dishes, including the famous Maryland crab cake.

Tips for attending the Preakness Stakes

Buy tickets in advance: The Preakness Stakes is a popular event, and tickets can sell out quickly. Be sure to buy your tickets well in advance to ensure that you get the seats you want.

Dress appropriately: Certain areas of the race course require proper dress at The Preakness Stakes, which is a formal event. Men should wear suits or sport coats, while women should wear dresses or skirts.

Arrive early: To get a good spot, it’s a good idea to arrive early on race day as the race course can get very crowded. Gates usually open several hours before the race, so plan accordingly.

Bring cash: While many vendors at the race course accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash as well, as some vendors may only accept cash.

Don’t forget your sunscreen: Race day can be long, and you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors. Be sure to bring sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day to protect your skin.

Pace yourself: With all the food, drink, and entertainment options available at the Preakness Stakes, it can be easy to overindulge. Pace yourself and be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Have fun: The Preakness Stakes is a fun and exciting event, so be sure to enjoy yourself! Take in the sights and sounds of the race, try some of the local food and drink, and soak up the atmosphere of this historic event.

Tickets: Tickets for the Preakness Stakes can be purchased online through the official ticketing website or by phone. There are several ticket options available, including general admission, grandstand seating, and premium hospitality packages. More information here.

Parking: There are several parking options available at Pimlico Race Course, including general parking and VIP parking. You can purchase parking in advance online or at the gate on race day. There are also several parking options available offsite with shuttle services to the race course.

Amenities: Pimlico Race Course offers a variety of amenities for racegoers, including food and drink vendors, restrooms, ATMs, and merchandise stands. The infield area features live music, games, and a variety of food and drink options. There are also several seating areas available throughout the race course, including grandstand seating, box seats, and luxury suites. Additionally, the race course offers seating and amenities for guests with disabilities.

Conclusion

The Preakness Stakes is one of the most exciting events in American sports, and Baltimore is the perfect host city for this historic race. Whether you’re a die-hard horse racing fan or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, the Preakness Stakes has something for everyone. With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder the Preakness Stakes is one of the most beloved events in the world of horse racing.

While in Baltimore, do not miss the fun! – Visit our “Free Things to do in Baltimore” and “Paid Attractions” guides to find out more.