About Vernon Downs

Vernon Downs is a harness racing track situated in Vernon, New York, around 40 miles from Syracuse on the I-90.

As well hosting harness racing, Vernon Downs was used as the site for the annual K-Rockathon gig and still boasts its173-suite fine dining restaurant and hotel.

Vernon Downs History

The history of Vernon Downs goes all the way back to 1953 when it was first opened and things went incredibly well from the outset.

As trends began to change somewhat in the 80’s and the track had to compete with bingo halls and casinos on Native American reservations, it began to struggle financially. To counteract this Vernon Downs, along with many other race tracks around the country, added gaming and simulcast racing to their offering in order to add more revenue as well as offering entertainment acts.

Following years of uncertainty and the passing of a bill in New York State which did not allow for lower taxes for racinos, Vernon Downs closed its doors to the public. Legislation was passed within three days however and the track immediately re-opened for business.

Vernon Downs Track Details

There is a standard 5/8 mile dirt harness track with the hotel, casino and grandstand looking right down the home stretch. There are more than 20 barns providing top facilities for horses and horsemen just after the winning line.

Biggest Races

Among the busy schedule at Vernon Downs are their main features which are:

New York Sire Stakes (various races staged May – September with trot and pace races for 2yo and 3yo colts and fillies

$500,000 Empire Breeders’ Classic – for 3yo trotters, eliminations in mid-May and finals at the end of May

Zweig Memorial – 3yo colt and filly trot staged in August

Wager At Vernon With TVG!

Now you know all about Vernon Downs, don’t forget you can wager on races there with TVG. Head to our schedules page to check out the latest race times then bet and watch live!

Address

4229 Stuhlman Rd, Vernon, NY 13476, USA

Contact

info@vernondowns.com