Belmont Park reopens as new sports and entertainment destination

ELMONT, N.Y. (PIX11) — The horses are running again at Belmont Park .

For the first time in three years, race calls echo across the iconic Nassau County track as thousands of fans gather for the reopening of a completely redesigned Belmont Park complex.

The familiar sounds returned as the trumpet signaled the first call to post since 2023 and horses took to one of four newly constructed tracks, including a synthetic racing surface designed to support a longer racing season.

Visitors said Belmont's appeal is also about the atmosphere.

"The events are about showmanship and fashion and excitement, beauty and coming together," said Stephanie Saltzman.

The new 5-story grandstand features luxury suites, expanded food and entertainment options, and additional green space. State and racing officials hope the venue will become a year-round sports and entertainment destination.

"It'll be good to hear that pitter-patter and the trot going around again. It'll be exciting," said Bob Barker, president of the Locustwood-Gotham Civic Association.

Barker said he is also excited about the economic benefits the project could bring to the area.

The State of New York loaned the New York Racing Association $455 million to help finance construction of the new facility. The funding will be repaid with interest under a long-term payment plan. The new complex cost about $550 million.

NYRA Chairman Marc Holliday said the investment extends beyond horse racing.

"Horse racing isn't just a sport. It's an economic engine. It's a connection to the agricultural roots," Holliday said.

Officials say the venue will host events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals and community gatherings.

"We set out to build a place that could be a concert and entertainment venue. It belongs not only to racing fans, but the community," New York Governor Kathy Hochul said.

Architect Meg McWilliam said designers focused on modernizing the facility while preserving the traditions that have long defined Belmont Park.

"What we focused on was bringing the venue into the 21st century and looking ahead while understanding the things that have been important to the Belmont experience," McWilliam said.

One of the most notable changes is the expanded paddock area, where fans can watch horses and jockeys prepare before races.

NYRA Vice President of Communications Pat McKenna said the redesigned space is intended to bring visitors closer to the action.

"Friends, families, young people can get up close and interact with the crowd. It's a focal point," McKenna said.

In June 2027, the Belmont Stakes will return to Belmont Park. For the past three championships, it was hosted upstate in Saratoga, another iconic venue.