Woodbine Racetrack
Woodbine Racetrack is Canada's premier Thoroughbred horse racing facility, located in the Rexdale area of Toronto. Open year-round, it is most famous for hosting the King's Plate (the country's most iconic and longest-running horse race) and features a massive casino, world-class dining, and free general admission.
Beyond the Finish Line
Entertainment at Every Turn
Whether you’re trying your luck at the casino, enjoying a meal, or simply taking in the energy of the track, Woodbine offers a variety of experiences designed to make your time truly memorable.
History of Woodbine
For more than a century, Woodbine Racetrack has been woven into the history of Toronto and Canadian horse racing. Originally established under the name “Woodbine” in the east end of Toronto near Queen Street East and Woodbine Avenue in 1874, the racetrack quickly became one of Canada’s premier sporting destinations.
The current Woodbine Racetrack officially opened on June 12, 1956, in northwest Toronto near Pearson Airport. Designed to accommodate more than 40,000 spectators, the new facility featured expansive grandstands, multiple racecourses, restaurants, and stabling facilities that set a new standard for horse racing in North America.
Over the decades, Woodbine has hosted countless historic moments in Canadian sport and entertainment. Royal visits from King George VI in 1939 and Queen Elizabeth II in both 1959 and 2010 added to the venue’s prestige and tradition. The track has also welcomed internationally renowned events, including the 1996 Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Today, Woodbine Racetrack remains Canada’s premier horse racing venue and an iconic entertainment destination, blending rich history, modern amenities, and the excitement of world-class thoroughbred racing. Its legacy continues to shape Toronto’s sporting and cultural landscape while offering guests a uniquely Canadian experience rooted in tradition, elegance, and competition.
