About Hipódromo de las Américas
The Hipódromo de las Américas is Mexico City’s historic premier horse-racing venue. Built and opened on March 6, 1943 , it is a sprawling thoroughbred and quarter-horse racetrack in the Lomas de Sotelo area (Colonia Residencial Militar, Delegación Miguel Hidalgo). Today it is majority-owned by the Spanish company Codere (Grupo CIE) and operated by Administradora Mexicana de Hipódromo . Its main grandstand was originally constructed with seating for around 20,000 spectators , making it one of the largest racing stands in Mexico. The track is oval-shaped with two chute extensions (for 7-furlong and 1¼-mile starts). It spans about 1,408 meters (roughly 7 furlongs) per loop . A stable area behind the track can house over 1,700 horses. Throughout its 75+ year history the hipódromo has hosted Mexican classics like the Longines Handicap de las Américas and the Derby Mexicano, launching legendary jockeys and horses. It even set records – for example, a record crowd of 43,371 attended one big race day in 1981 . In summary, the venue is a cultural icon of Mexico City’s sports and social life. It’s often described as a “100% familia” environment , where the excitement of horse racing is at the heart of the experience.
Events and Programming
Horse racing is the primary activity at Hipódromo de las Américas. Races are held almost every weekend: typically on Fridays (starting afternoons), Saturdays (from ~2pm) and Sundays (from ~1pm) throughout the racing season . The season runs roughly from late January until mid-December, with special holiday cards (e.g. on Benito Juárez’s birthday) included . A full race day usually features half a dozen to ten races, including maiden races, allowance (handicap) races, sprints, and stakes for various age groups. High-profile annual events include the “Handicap de las Américas” (a Grade I race often held in May) and the Mexican Derby (Derby Criadores) each fall – these are the marquee horse races of the year. In recent seasons, notable winners at Las Américas have grabbed headlines. For example, the horse *One Zulu Dragon* won the Futurity México (a two-year-old championship) at this track in 2023 . Stars like *Litely Political* won the Clásico Inaugural (opening classic) , and the mare *Kantyi* scored a dominant win in the handicap race “Handicap Monarca” . Championship mares (*Etruska* in 2023) have taken the Clásico Comisión de Carreras , and seasonal finales (like the closing of the 75th season) draw packed houses . Beyond horse racing, the venue occasionally hosts related equestrian or community events, but its focus remains on live racing. On race days, the atmosphere is festive – families, racing fans, and betting enthusiasts gather for an afternoon of action on the dirt track. As one local source enthuses, the culture of horseracing here is “one of the most exciting” in the world . (Ticket prices are very affordable by international standards – for general admission see below.)
Tickets and Booking
For horse-racing events, tickets are usually purchased on site at the track’s box office or grandstand entrance. The hipódromo itself does not rely on outside ticketing vendors; instead visitors typically buy tickets the day of the race. The official track website confirms that standard entry (“Entrada General”) to the central grandstand and restaurant areas is quite inexpensive – about MXN $40 per person . There are higher-priced tiers: mezzanine-level seats cost around MXN $60, and prime “platea” (floor/trackside) seats go for about MXN $70 . (These prices reflect current rates; historically it was even lower – a past source mentioned a $20 MXN general admission, but official 2024 rates are roughly double that .) Note that some sections may require a minimum dining or betting spend when purchased as a package. Ticket sales begin when the venue opens (weekends at 1–2pm ) and there usually is no online presale for general events; success at this track rarely involves first-come first-served access each race day. For very popular events (like major stakes), it is wise to arrive early as seating fills up. Box office staff can also arrange any VIP or group bookings if available, but in practice most fans will simply line up and pay at the gate on race day.
Seating and Layout
The hipódromo’s seating is arranged along the home stretch of the track. The largest section is the **Grada Central** (central grandstand) which is a covered spectator stand with bench seating. It faces the finish line and main paddock area. Immediately above that is the **Mezzanine** level (a smaller upper deck) offering a more panoramic view of the full track; mezzanine seats cost a bit more . In front of the grandstand and closer to the track surface are the **Platea** seats: an on-level section near the finish which is slightly elevated and often padded; these are the most expensive tier . Many spectators prefer the platea or front rows of the grandstand for the best close-up view of finishes. General admission (MXN $40) typically grants you any bench seat in the central grandstand or standing-room areas, including sections near the on-site restaurants . The venue is mostly open-air (with partial cover), so be aware that sun or rain can be factors depending on weather. Acoustically, race calls and announcements are made over a PA system to the crowd; the cheers of the finish-line crowd can be quite loud, so ear protection (or quiet betting conversations) may be helpful for sensitive listeners. It’s easy to walk between sections on wide concrete concourses, and grandstand seats are mostly benches (no assigned seat numbers on a general ticket). The view from anywhere in the stand is generally good – one can follow the sprint from the far end on the large track – but being higher up or closer to the finish line will improve visibility of the final furlong.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The Hipódromo is on Avenida Industria Militar s/n in Colonia Residencial Militar (Miguel Hidalgo), about 4.5 miles north of downtown Mexico City . With no street numeric address, just use “Avenida Industria Militar, Colonia Residencial Militar” as the destination. The official site lists this as its address . It is 6–7 km from major downtown areas like Paseo de la Reforma. The neighborhood is a built-up mix of housing and business, not a tourist zone, so plan your route in advance.
By Metro/Bus: There is no metro station at the venue itself. Common transit routes include taking Metro Line 2 (blue line) to the Tacuba or Colegio Militar station. From **Tacuba (Line 2)** you can catch a metrobús or local city bus (#23D) eastbound on Avenida de los Maestros/Occidente—these buses run toward Ind. Militar and have stops right by the track entrance . For example Rome2Rio suggests: Metro from Zócalo to Tacuba (Line 2) then Bus 23D from CETRAM Tacuba to “Industria Militar – Gral. Ildefonso Vázquez” stop , which drops riders at Ind. Militar right by the track. Alternatively, from **Colegio Militar (Line 2)** or **Deportivo 18 de Marzo (Line 3/6)** you might need a short bus ride or taxi. Mexico City’s extensive bus network (routes like 56, 1A, etc.) run along Periférico and Observatorio toward Ind. Militar – apps like Moovit or Google Maps can find exact lines. In summary, public transit access is a two-step journey: metro to an interchange station, then a surface bus to Av. Industria Militar.Driving and Parking: If driving, use the northbound Periférico/Gustavo Díaz Ordaz Expressway to reach Ind. Militar. The main entrance leads directly to a large surface parking lot adjacent to the grandstand. The hipódromo charges for parking at a modest rate: MXN $39 for the first hour (or any fraction thereof), then parking fees step up by fraction of an hour (for example, MXN $10 for up to 15 min, $20 for 16–30 min, etc., up to $39 each further hour) . Thus parking for a full day can be on the order of a few hundred pesos. This lot fills up on big race days, so consider arriving early or using a taxi/Uber. Rideshare drop-offs are straightforward – use “Av. Industria Militar” – but note fare surcharges may apply at events. Taxis and Ubers can approach via Periférico and drop you at the main gate, avoiding the internal lot fees.Rideshare/Taxi: Many visitors prefer a taxi or rideshare from central Mexico City. A car ride from the center (Centro Histórico or Polanco) typically takes 20–30 minutes outside of peak traffic, and around 40–50 minutes on heavy-event days. Depending on distance, an Uber from downtown should cost on the order of MXN $150–$300. There is a dedicated drop-off/pick-up area near the main entrance on Avenida Industria Militar (you may need to request an exact drop-off spot in-app or to your driver).
Inside the Venue
Once inside, visitors will pass through ticket checks and minimal security screening. Bags are usually not strictly searched, but all patrons must typically clear a metal detector wand (a common practice at large venues). The atmosphere under the grandstand is casual: people in cowboy hats and jeans mix with formal bettors. The venue offers amenities for a full day out. In the main concourse and grandstand there are multiple concession stands selling traditional racetrack food (snacks, sandwiches, sodas, coffee, beer). Notably, there is a proper on-site restaurant called “Restaurante 1943” (named for the track’s founding year), which seats several dozen at tables overlooking the paddock and track . This restaurant requires reservations (telephone listed on the official site), and serves hot meals – it’s a nice option for group lunches or a shaded break during long race days . Throughout the grounds you’ll find mutuel windows for placing bets; we recommend keeping Mexican pesos on hand, as tickets and wagering are typically cash-based. (ATMs may be available near the venue entrance, but limits can apply.)
Other facilities inside include ample restrooms (clean, with flushing toilets) scattered near the stands, and designated pet-free smoking areas behind the grandstand (smoking is usually allowed in outdoor sections only). Coat-check or lockers are not generally offered, but you can stow small personal items at your table or seat. Major racing days will also feature large video screens showing the live feed of each race – making it easy to follow the action from anywhere in the stands. Merchandise booths (selling the hippodromo’s logo items like hats, programs or jockey silks replicas) do appear occasionally on special race days, but are not a constant feature. About connectivity: cell service (Telefonica, Telcel, etc.) is generally good, so betting apps work and credit card machines (for food) are functional. Free public Wi-Fi isn’t typically offered, so don’t count on it. Overall, expect a laid-back stadium vibe: horse-racing fans watching showdown on the dirt track, music playing between races, announcers calling the action, and a family-friendly crowd moving about the concourse .
Nearby Amenities
The area around Hipódromo de las Américas is not a tourist hub but a mix of residential and military facilities. Directly adjacent to the track you won’t find many restaurants or shops – on-site dining (as noted) is the primary option. The nearest significant commercial areas are a short drive away. For pre-show meals or supplies, some patrons stop at San Juan Plaza (just west of Periférico) which has food courts and cafes, or head further south to Polanco/Anzures for a wider variety of restaurants. Polanco’s El Palacio de Hierro and Antara malls are about 10–15 km (20–30 minutes drive) and have numerous dining options ranging from fast food to upscale Mexican cuisine. Nearer yet, the Colegio Militar Metro zone (about 3 km west) has a handful of small eateries, markets, and pharmacies. For post-event nightlife and late rides, note that the nearest Metro or Metrobús stations can be a walk or short ride away, so late-night rideshares or taxis from nearby neighborhoods (Colegio Militar, Tacuba, or Polo Sur) are common.
In terms of lodging, there are very few hotels right at the track. A few budget hotels and hostels are located near the Colegio Militar / Decreto 18 de Marzo area (Line 2), such as the “Hotel Militar” near Hospital Militar (a 5–10 min drive from the track). However, most visitors who stay overnight in Mexico City choose hotels in Polanco, Reforma or Polanco (15–20 min to the hipódromo) for their greater hotel and restaurant choices. If you plan an out-of-town trip for a race weekend, book central hotels and allow a taxi or Uber ride to the hipódromo on racing days.
Arrival Tip: On weekends, local traffic can be unpredictable. For afternoon races, consider arriving by noon or 1pm. This gives time to park (or disembark transit), find seats, review the race program, and place any bets before the first race (~2pm on Friday/Saturday, ~1pm Sunday) .
What Makes This Venue Special
The Hipódromo de las Américas holds a unique place in Mexico City’s sports and cultural landscape. It is the **oldest and largest** horse racetrack in the city (established 1943), and for many years it was *the* social event of the weekend for racing fans across the Valley of Mexico. The venue’s Art Deco–styled grandstand still has a vintage charm, and its annual racing calendar revolves around storied traditions like the Longines Handicap (now in its 80th year) and the Mexican Derby . No other track in CDMX offers the same blend of big-event excitement and family-friendly picnic atmosphere. Riders and jockeys of multiple generations have made their names here – some went on to win Triple Crown races or compete internationally. In fact, the track’s central Handicap race (Handicap de las Américas) is often called “the race of races” in Mexican horseracing circles . Even beyond racing, the hipódromo reflects the broader history of the city: it was planned during President Manuel Ávila Camacho’s administration and has seen celebrities and presidents attend; it has survived dips in the sport’s popularity and remains an icon of Mexico’s equestrian tradition. Local lore notes that Jackie Kennedy (when in her Mexico City days) once attended races here, and that *Diamante Negro* (a legendary Mexican champion) won back-to-back editions of the Longines Handicap in the 2020s .
Fans and visitors often say they love the track’s “old-world” feel – the sight of sweepstakes bettors poring over programs, the smell of pasture and saddle in the paddock, and the thunder of hooves on the dirt are not found in modern multi-purpose arenas. By code, the venue promotes a festive community spirit: children are welcome (it bills itself as “100% family-friendly” ), and special family-block tickets or kids’ promotions are sometimes offered. The wide lawns of the infield are sometimes opened for picnics or casual watching (when not in use for races), which you don’t get at a typical indoor sports stadium. In sum, Hipódromo de las Américas is as much a cultural tradition as it is a sporting venue – it matters to Mexico City because it preserves and celebrates the legacy of horse racing that has thrilled Mexicans for generations .
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress and Gear: Attendees dress very casually. Feel free to wear jeans, hats and comfortable shoes (note: stilettos or formal wear would be out of place). Outdoor seating means you’ll be exposed to sun or light rain; bring sunscreen, a hat or a light jacket. Binoculars are a good idea for spectators in the back of the stands – they help track the horses down the stretch. A small amount of cash is recommended (for food vendors and if you want to place small bets). The handicap slate can be studied ahead if you like, but it’s not required – people also buy cheap daily programs at the entrance or from vendors to follow the horses’ names and odds.
Bets and Tips: If you plan to wager (even if just for fun), know the basics of pari-mutuel betting (win/place/show, etc.). Track staff and mutuel tellers often speak English if needed, but having a little Spanish can help (many horse and jockey names will be Spanish). Show up at least 20–30 minutes before your target race to buy your betting ticket – queues can form at busy windows for big races. Familiarize yourself with the race numbering and the schedule (posted on boards) so you’re ready. Don’t be shy about asking ushers or friendly regulars how things work; Mexican racing folks are generally hospitable. Remember that a Mexican peso is the betting currency here; bringing small bills (NH) avoids waiting at an ATM. And of course gambling is age-restricted, so only guests 18+ can place bets. (All fans – including children – must stay in family areas; there is no separate “adult only” section.)
Accessibility: While the hipódromo dates from the 1940s, it has ramps and wide aisles in the grandstand to accommodate wheelchairs. The front row (“platea”) is ramp-accessible, and there are just a few steps in other sections. Wheelchair seating is typically available on a first-come basis. Restrooms include at least one accessible stall (signs are posted). Assistance is generally available – staff will be helpful if you have special needs, but it’s best to call in advance if you have a group or unique requirement. Service animals (for the disabled) are likely welcome, but pets or service animals of other kinds are not allowed.
Prohibited Items: Large backpacks or suitcases are generally not permitted – think of it like a sports arena. You probably won’t be wanded, but obvious weapons or fireworks are banned as with any public event. Outside drinks or alcoholic beverages are not allowed (the track has vendors selling beer, soda, etc.). Cameras and phones are fine – spectators often snap photos of the horses or video the finishes. There was no special “no photo” rule found, so feel free to shoot photos for personal use. Flash or large tripods might be funneled by staff in high-crowd situations. Besides that, normal stadium courtesies (“no littering,” “line up at concessions”) apply.
Arrival: Plan to arrive comfortably early. If your race is at 2:00pm, aim to be through the gates by 1:00–1:15pm. That ensures you can pick a good seat, get any food or drink, place bets, and watch the pre-race parade (horses parade in the infield before the running). Weekends in Mexico City also tend to have midday traffic, so allow extra travel time on Friday or Saturday for rush-hour crowds. Doors open around 1–2pm on race days – definitely don’t arrive at 1:50pm expecting to waltz in without queue.
Food & Drink: As noted, on-site options mean you don’t need to pack a picnic: there are snack carts and *Restaurante 1943* on the grounds. If you’re hungry earlier, eat beforehand or grab a coffee/meal in Tacuba or Polanco. Click drinks (water, soda, beer) can be purchased from stands. Enjoy the beer gardens and cantinas near the grandstand, but consume responsibly (security will not hesitate to remove obviously intoxicated guests).
Insider Tip: Check the hipódromo’s Spanish-language website or social media for the day’s race schedule (program). Often they post an “Oficial Schedule” PDF for each race day online (e.g. on thw Thoroughbredmx site or Hipódromo site) so you know which races are stakes and roughly how many horses. This helps if you want to be there specifically for a particular race. On high-stakes days, specials promotions (like “bring a friend for free” or hat contests) may appear on their official announcements.
What is the capacity of Hipódromo de las Américas and how big is the track?
The grandstand of Hipódromo de las Américas seats around 20,000 spectators . The dirt track itself is about 1,408 meters around (roughly 7 furlongs) with two starting chutes for 1,400m and 2,000m races . Including stables, it can hold 1700 horses. With spectators infield, this venue once hosted crowds over 43,000 for major events .
How much are tickets and where do I buy them?
Race-day tickets are bought on site (at the ticket windows at the grandstand entrance). As of recent seasons, general admission (grandstand seating) is about MXN $40 . There are higher tiers: mezzanine seats are MXN $60, and platea (floor/trackside) seats are MXN $70 . Tickets go on sale when the track opens (1–2pm on race days ) and typically you pay cash at the gate. For big races, it’s smart to arrive early, since seating is first-come first-served.
What’s the best way to get to the hipódromo using public transit?
The nearest Metro stations are several miles away, so transit involves a connection. A common route is: take the Metro Blue Line (Line 2) to Tacuba or Colegio Militar, then transfer to a local bus that runs along Avenida Industria Militar. For example, one popular option is: Metro Line 2 to Tacuba, then Bus 23D from CETRAM Tacuba to “Industria Militar” , which stops right at the track. There is no single metro stop at the venue, so expect a 2-step journey. Taxis or rideshares most directly drop off at Av. Industria Militar; many visitors find Uber convenient for reaching the track from central CDMX.
Is there parking available and how much does it cost?
Yes, there is a parking lot on site adjacent to the grandstand. Parking is not free, but it’s reasonable: the first hour costs MXN $39 , and additional time is charged by fractions of an hour (another MXN $39 for each subsequent hour, pro-rated in smaller increments ). So expect to pay on the order of MXN $150–$200 for an afternoon. On busy race days, parking space can fill up, so consider arriving early or using a ride service to avoid delays.
What are the seating sections and which seats are best?
The main sections are the Central Grandstand, Mezzanine, and Platea (floor) seats. General admission covers the central grandstand area . The Mezzanine (upper tier) gives a panoramic view at a modest extra cost . The Platea are front-row seats near the railing and finish line (MXN $70) . For sightlines, Platea (if you secure them) are closest to the action. Otherwise, any seat in the central grandstand has a clear line to the finish and infield. Back rows still see the horses, but we recommend arriving early if you want the very front for photos or a close view of the last furlong.
Can I bring my child, and are minors allowed?
Absolutely – the hipódromo promotes a family-friendly atmosphere . Children are welcome with adult supervision. There’s no strict age restriction for entry to race days (aside from adults only where betting machines are concerned). In fact, kids often receive a cheaper “junior” ticket or free entry on special family days. Parents should just keep an eye on little ones (the stands have no moving scenery to watch, but the excitement of the races usually keeps kids entertained).
Can I buy food and drink inside? Are outside foods allowed?
Yes, there are plenty of on-site food and drink options. Vendor carts sell snacks, tacos, sodas and beer throughout the seating areas. The track even has a full-service restaurant (Restaurante 1943) for sit-down meals . Outside food or alcohol is generally not permitted; guests usually are expected to purchase food from the concession areas. We recommend grabbing something to eat on location – the stands often have short lines at lunch time, and enjoying typical racetrack fare (fried snacks, hot dogs, local dishes) is part of the experience.
Is there an official dress code?
No formal dress code is enforced. Attendees dress very casually – jeans, shorts, T-shirts, baseball caps or Western hats are all common. On big race days some people might dress slightly nicer (Polo shirts, sundresses, etc.), but you will fit in in casual tennis shoes or ranch boots. The only advice is to wear comfortable clothes suitable for an outdoor event: sun hats or a light jacket for the cooler months, and perhaps a rain poncho if showers are in the forecast. Betting areas and restrooms are casual, so you won’t see tuxedos or cocktail dresses here.
What are the venue’s policies on bags, cameras, and safety?
Bag policy is relaxed: small purses or backpacks are typically allowed, but very large suitcases are discouraged as space is tight. You might encounter a quick security glance or a metal detector wand (mostly for large events), but major bags are rarely searched in detail. Cameras and smartphones are allowed and commonly used by spectators to photograph horses or record race finishes. No professional video equipment is needed – you’re free to film with your phone. Just be considerate and don’t obstruct other people’s views. As for safety, the event is family-oriented and security is present on race days. If you see any issue, staff members (wearing godets with the race officials or track logo) are there to assist.
Are the races held rain or shine?
Racing typically proceeds come rain or shine, as the track has full drainage and events are rarely canceled for weather alone. Light rain merely makes the dirt track “fast (muddy)” or “sloppy,” which can be exciting for bettors. Only severe storms would postpone racing, and such announcements would appear on the hipódromo’s website or social channels. On sunny days, many grandstand seats are covered, so you’ll stay dry and shaded. If rain is expected, bring a waterproof jacket or an umbrella to the track – the stands are roofed, but the infield (if open to guests) is not.
What is the racing surface and what kind of racing is done here?
The track surface is dirt (sand) – Spanish references call it “pista de arena” – so all races are on the traditional dirt track . Only flat (non-jump) races are held here, for two categories of horses: full thoroughbreds (“pura sangre”) and American Quarter Horses (short sprints). You’ll see races from 15-horse fields sprinting 300–1,600 meters around the oval. The most prestigious race is run at 1 3/16 miles on dirt (the Handicap de las Américas) but shorter races (5–8 furlongs) are most common day-to-day. This dirt surface is similar to many U.S. racetracks, so expect fast, pounding finishes.
Can I re-enter if I leave the venue?
Typically, race tracks have re-entry policies (wristbands or ticket stubs) similar to stadiums. The hipódromo often allows re-entry if you get your hand stamped at the guard gate. In practice, because it’s a race track, most guests stay once inside and come back to their seats between races. If you do leave (for example, to smoke outside or to your car), make sure you register your exit and re-entry with attendants. On very crowded days, re-entry might not be convenient, so plan accordingly (visit restrooms or get food before a big race). In any case, once inside you can usually step out to the parking or grounds and return without paying again that day.
What time do gates open and what time do races start?
The hipódromo’s schedule varies by day of week. According to the official race calendar, gates typically open at 2:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 1:00pm on Sundays . The first race usually begins shortly after gates open (for example, 2pm on Fri/Sat, 1pm Sunday). Keep in mind that these times can shift if special racing events are scheduled, so it’s wise to check the track’s online schedule or social media for the exact day’s program. They also often hold a short opening ceremony or two-minute reminder to take seats before race #1.
Are there any clothing or item shops within the hipódromo?
There isn’t a dedicated “souvenir shop” like you’d see in a stadium. On big race days you'll typically find pop-up booths or tents selling caps, polo shirts, and memorabilia with the hipódromo logo or racing themes. On normal weekends, merchandise is minimal. Betting programs are definitely sold (for a few pesos) and are a must-have for many fans. If you’re looking for specific racetrack gear, it’s best to buy ahead (if available) or plan to do a quick look at the merchandise tables on a big event day. Otherwise, the venue focuses on racing, not retail shopping.
