There is nothing quite like the excitement of watching top-tier thoroughbreds compete in person. If you are heading to Oaklawn Park for the Arkansas Derby, you are stepping onto a historic track that has launched some of the biggest names in horse racing.
Before you pack your favorite race-day attire and head out to experience the thrill for yourself, here are the top things you need to know about the history and prestige of the race:
1. A Key Stop on the Road to the Kentucky Derby
First run at Oaklawn in 1936 with a $5,000 purse, the Arkansas Derby has grown into a major Grade I race featuring a $1.5 million purse. It serves as the final 100-point qualifying race for the Kentucky Derby. Because the winner earns enough points to guarantee a spot in the starting gate at Churchill Downs, it brings fierce competition to Hot Springs every spring.
2. A Grandstand Filled with History
Oaklawn’s fame isn't just about the incredible horses; the track itself has a fascinating past. When the track opened in 1904, its glass-enclosed, heated grandstand was among the first of its kind in the country. The track's architect, Zachary Taylor Davis, went on to design Chicago's famous Wrigley Field.
During the early 20th century, Hot Springs was a bustling hub for all kinds of famous figures, and Oaklawn was the place to be seen. Infamous gangsters like Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, and Lucky Luciano were regular faces around the track.
Baseball legends loved the track, too. Major League Baseball teams used to hold spring training in Hot Springs, but the local nightlife occasionally proved to be a bit too distracting. Legend has it that Babe Ruth spent so much time betting on the horses that he managed to gamble away his entire MLB salary before the regular season even started! While the local attractions were undeniably popular with the players, the lively nightlife and trackside excitement were just a few of the reasons baseball owners eventually decided to transition spring training to other locations.
3. A Proven Track Record for Producing Winners
Oaklawn has a long history of showcasing horses that go on to achieve great things. To date, eight thoroughbreds who ran in the Arkansas Derby have gone on to win the Kentucky Derby:
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Winning Both Races: Sunny’s Halo (1983), Smarty Jones (2004), and Triple Crown winner American Pharoah (2015) all took first place in both the Arkansas and Kentucky Derbies.
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Finishing Strong in Louisville: Lil E. Tee (1992), Grindstone (1996), and Super Saver (2010) each finished second in Hot Springs before winning big at the Kentucky Derby.
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Third-Place Contenders: Country House (2019) and Mystik Dan (2024) both placed third in the Arkansas Derby before capturing their victories at Churchill Downs. Mystik Dan’s exciting win by a nose was especially fun to watch, as he has a local, Hot Springs-connected ownership team!
4. Give Yourself Time to Explore
To get the most out of your trip, try to plan your visit for more than just one afternoon. Oaklawn’s live racing season runs from November 27, 2026, through May 1, 2027. While the weekly schedule varies throughout the winter and spring meet, Derby weekend features back-to-back days of incredible thoroughbred racing. Pacing your trip to enjoy both days of the race card lets you soak in the atmosphere without having to rush.
Complete Your Race Weekend at Tiffany's Bed and Breakfast
Ready to see history in the making? Now that you know the legends behind the race, make sure you are fully prepared for the logistics of race day. Check out our companion Visitor's Guide to the Arkansas Derby for insider tips on gate times, dress codes, and how to maximize your day at Oaklawn Park!
When the final horses cross the finish line, leave the busy track traffic behind and escape to Tiffany's Bed and Breakfast. Nestled in the peaceful foothills just 14 miles outside of Hot Springs, our 60-acre woodland retreat is the ultimate place to unwind after an exciting day. Best of all, you don't have to worry about finding a breakfast spot in a crowded city - every morning of your stay starts with a fresh, home-cooked breakfast right here at the B&B!
Spring race dates book out months in advance. Explore our 36 hours in Hot Springs itinerary to round out your travel plans, and book your stay directly with Tiffany's Bed and Breakfast today!