Frequently Asked Questions About Tampa Bay Downs Race Track
Looking for information about the Race Track? Find answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions below.
Where is Tampa Bay Downs located?
It is very easy to find the Race Track. It is located at 11225 Racetrack Rd, Tampa, FL 33626. Click here for more detailed directions.
What is the cost of admission?
General admission to Tampa Bay Downs is FREE ($2.00 on weekends). When accompanied by an adult, children 12 and under are admitted free. For the Clubhouse, admission is $3.00. This admission is the same for Giveaway Days. Reserved Seating sold seperately.
How long is the Tampa Bay Downs Meet?
Tampa’s 2011-12 racing season begins on Saturday, December 3rd and runs through Sunday, May 6th. There is no racing on Mondays and Tuesdays, so the track is sometimes referred to as being "dark" on those days. Tampa Bay Downs’ season is 92 days long. Click here for the complete calendar.
Where should I park?
As soon as you drive toward the track, you will see lots of parking signs. General parking is free. Gates for the trackside parking lot opens at 11:00 a.m. Preferred parking is $3.00 at the Clubhouse Entrance. Valet parking is $5.00, also at the Clubhouse entrance. There is also handicapped parking available at the Clubhouse entrance.
How do I make restaurant reservations?
Call the Skye Terrace Dining Room at (813) 855-4401 ext. 1315 or for a more casual meal, the Sports Gallery 813-855-4401 ext. 1257. Click here for all dining options.
When should I get to the track?
For the best seating, it is recommended that you get to the Racetrack early, especially on Giveaway Days! Admission gates open at 11 a.m. On Festival Day, Saturday, March 10th, 2012, gates open at 10 a.m. If you wish to get to the track earlier, consider Morning Glory Club on Saturdays at Tampa Bay Downs .This is a really unique opportunity to watch the horses’ morning workouts, while enjoying delicious free coffee and donuts from 10 a.m through 11:00 a.m. The Morning Glory Club begins Dec 31, 2011.
What should I wear?
If you are just coming to hang out in the Grandstand (the main area) or on the lawns near the paddock, we recommend comfortable shoes and casual clothing - hats are always fun and in the spirit of the track. Shoes and shirts are always required. For Box Seats, gentlemen are asked to wear slacks and shirts (ties are not required but requested). Women are asked to wear dresses, skirts or slack outfits. For the Clubhouse and Skye Terrace Restaurant proper attire is required at the discretion of management. Absolutely no short shorts, tank-tops, cut-offs or other abbreviated wear.
Are coolers permitted?
You CAN bring coolers if you are planning on watching the races on the lawns in the Backyard Area. You are not allowed to bring your cooler anywhere inside the building or grandstand apron. Absolutely NO glass containers. All coolers and any other carry-in items are subject to inspection by Security.
Are dogs allowed at the Race Track?
No pets of any kind are allowed at the track, except those necessary for medical purposes (i.e. seeing-eye dog).
When is the first post-time?
The first post-time of each racing day is 12:25 p.m., except on Festival day, Saturday March 10th, 2012, when the first post-time is approximately12:00 noon.
Is there any air-conditioning?
There is air-conditioning available in the Clubhouse, interior of the Grandstand and the luxury suite.
Are there any picnic areas that can be reserved at the track?
Unfortunately, the picnic areas cannot be reserved.
What are the giveaways?
There are several giveaway days (always Saturdays) throughout the Tampa meet each year. On these days, you are entitled to a free promotional gift with purchase of admission while supplies last. These promotions range from ball caps and T-shirts to folding chairs and coolers. Every year, there is a different lineup of giveaways.
What is Opening Day Breakfast at the Downs?
There is a buffet breakfast opening day of the Tampa racing meet from 8 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. where you can watch the horses’ morning workouts. Admission to the breakfast is $6.95. Free admission to the day’s races is included in the price of the breakfast.
Is there any reserved seating available?
If you are interested in Grandstand Box Seats, get to the track early as a limited number of these seats are available on race days, see the Box Seat Usher. For more information on reserved seats call (813) 855-4401, ext. 1350.
How do I contact the Track?
For information prior to the season, call (813) 855-4401. For questions, comments or suggestions about this website, please use our contact form.
How do I get a job?
You would need to call 813-855-4401 from 9am-5pm or mail a request for an application to: Human Resources, PO Box 2007, Oldsmar, FL 34677. Visit www.tampabaydowns.com and click on Employment Opportunities.
Is there any Internet connection available at the Race Track for a laptop computer?
Yes, there is a wireless connection available for laptops at the track.
Can you tell me more about the private suites at the track?
Our newest facility offers you the ultimate in pampered hospitality. Enjoy live racing excitement with high-end amenities. You’ll be very impressed by how close you are to the action with Tampa Bay Downs’ most exclusive venue. Towering just trackside, the Trackside Garden Suite is dramatically positioned to provide you unparalleled views to racing action. Hear the thunder of each gallop and see the gallantry of jockey and horse in the “suitest” spot on the Track. Call Group Sales for more information at 813-855-4401, ext 1386.
Are there designated handicapped seating areas, services and parking?
There are specially marked areas designated for wheelchairs in the Clubhouse behind the reserved seat section. One person may accompany and sit with the handicapped person in these areas, and there is handicapped parking available at the Clubhouse. There are no motorized vehicles or scooters available for rent at the Race Track, so any desired arrangements for such services must be made separately.
Is there a Will Call Box Office where I can leave tickets for friends to pick up?
Yes, there are three Will Call pick-up stations at the Track - one for the Clubhouse, one for the Grandstand and one for the Paddock. If you call 813-855-4401, ext 1350 they can put you in line with the Will Call ticket station you are looking for.