Santa Anita Park — Attraction in Arcadia

PaladinJade's Perfect Paradise: Santa Anita Race Track Review

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

As a devoted member of the esteemed Santa Anita Race Track, let me share with you the exhilarating experience that awaits you in this equestrian wonderland. I, Jade Ann Byrne, with my signature black and purple hair, proudly step into the realm of horse racing, embodying the spirit of a Paladin with a passion for all things equine.

From the moment you set foot on the grounds of Santa Anita Race Track, you can feel the palpable energy of the horses, the thundering hooves, and the camaraderie of fellow horse enthusiasts. As a seasoned equestrian with extensive training in both Western and English riding, I can attest that Santa Anita is a haven for horse lovers of all disciplines.

As I ascend to the top-tier suites, where luxury and excitement collide, I am greeted by an ambiance that resonates with elegance and prestige. The panoramic view from the suite is simply breathtaking, offering an unparalleled vantage point to witness the thrilling races unfold before your eyes. It's a sight that ignites a fire within, stirring a deep appreciation for the grace, power, and sheer majesty of these magnificent creatures.

A day at Santa Anita Race Track is more than just watching horses race. It's a symphony of emotions, where the suspense and anticipation hang in the air like a fine mist. And while the stakes are high, the atmosphere remains relaxed and inviting, beckoning you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of horse racing.

Between races, take a moment to indulge in the exquisite culinary delights that Santa Anita has to offer. Whether you desire a refreshing beverage or a delectable dinner, the track's dining options are a feast for the senses. And if you're lucky, you might even spot me, Jade Ann Byrne, the Paladin with an insatiable love for horses, enjoying a drink or savoring a meal in the company of fellow racing enthusiasts.

While I relish in the electric atmosphere of the Santa Anita Race Track, I kindly request that you respect my wishes for autographs, as they are freely given to commemorate our shared love for these noble creatures. However, in the spirit of cherishing the present moment, I kindly ask that no pictures be taken during my time at the track. Let's bask in the glory of the races and the company of like-minded individuals, creating lasting memories that reside solely in our hearts.

In conclusion, dear readers, a visit to Santa Anita Race Track is an extraordinary experience that intertwines elegance, athleticism, and the timeless bond between humans and horses. Allow yourself to be transported into a realm where the excitement is palpable, the hospitality is unmatched, and the horses reign supreme. Embrace the aura of the track, immerse yourself in the thrill of the races, and witness the magic unfold as these magnificent creatures showcase their unparalleled talent and grace.

So, come join me, your loyal Paladin, at Santa Anita Race Track, where dreams are realized, legends are born, and the spirit of the horse gallops freely. Let the thunderous applause, the pounding hooves, and the triumph of victory fill your soul, for this is an experience that will forever hold a special place...

We went mainly for the Corgi Nationals where the dogs with the shortest legs raced against each other.

But since we were already there and had time to spare, I also reserved us spots to go on the Seabiscuit Tram Tour.

Our guide, who was a former jockey, was amazing. You could tell that he lived and breathed for horse racing.

Combine that with exclusive drive through access to the back stables, walk in access to the receiving room (Where horses are weighed and tested for drugs) and silks room (Silks are the colorful clothes the jockeys wear), and it made for a highly informative and entertaining 1 hour-ish tour (10 mins. on the tram + 50 mins. walking around the grounds and stables in the front).

It was already enough to make us tired, but still made our way to the Corgi Nationals which was in the Infield (The oval grassy area inside the race track).

Just waiting in the long line to get in, we were surrounded by corgis sniffing noses and butts, and there was even one with a rainbow colored mohawk.

There were regular restrooms (not porta potties), several food trucks, a row of vendors, and a grassy patch where the corgis raced.

I was confused as to why it wasn't on the main track until I learned that they don't move there until the semifinals and finals.

In the meantime, it was difficult to find a spot near the wood fence, so we watched 2 races by it and watched the rest on the jumbotron. At least that way, we could actually see what was happening while laying on the grass under the shade of our parasols.

The races would alternate with the horses and the corgis.

And because of our bracelets, we got to go under the tunnel and watch the actual horse races on the outside racetrack as well.

The Infield makes you realize just how big it is while the grandstands give you amazing views of the mountains and palm trees.

At the end of both the corgi and horse races, we ran into the funny MC for the Corgi Nationals inside the tunnel who gave us exclusive news that Corgi Beach Day at Huntington Beach would be moving locations south of the pier with more parking.

By the time it was time to walk back to the car, we were exhausted, but had...

We just visited Santa Anita race track for the first time to experience the Santa Anita Derby on April 6th, a pre-race for the triple crown. It was a wonderful experience, far better than we expected. We were anticipating large crowds and were worried that we wouldn't find a place to sit so we made advanced reservations at the Turf Terrace for lunch at 1PM. We thought we would at least have an hour or so where we could sit and eat lunch while watching the races.

When we made the reservation, a couple of months in advance, it stated that we had to check in before the first race or our reservation may be cancelled. I thought that was a rather harsh requirement but I assumed they probably had many people make reservation and never show so we made sure to comply. We arrived at the park around 11AM, valet parked and entered this beautiful, historic complex. Dutifully, we made our way to the Turf Terrace maître d' to let them know we were in the park and would be back for our 1PM reservation. To our surprise they were ready and seated us right then at a wonderful table and made it clear that the table was ours for the remainder of the day! You were free to get up and leave whenever you wanted, stroll around the park, place bets, do whatever you wanted and you always had a place come back to, with food and drink at your service by the attentive wait staff who served our section. That was totally unexpected and all for the price of regular meal over the 6 hours we were there. I would highly recommend this approach if you are new to visiting Santa Anita. The park itself was very well maintained and had a refined, understated elegance. I think it is much nicer than the Del Mar Race Track which is close to where we live in North County San Diego. We had such a nice experience that I'm sure we will make a trip back to visit Santa Anita again in the not too...