Family Day Out at Fort Erie: Live Racing Thrills and Local Eats

Fort Erie Race Track welcomes families for an action-packed day of live horse racing. With free admission and parking, the event offers a budget-friendly way to experience the thrill of the races together. The track also streams races in HD online, but nothing beats the excitement of being there in person. Wagering is available for those interested, and the lively atmosphere makes it a fun outing for all ages.

Why this works for families

Plan a fun, affordable family day at the races, complete with nearby dining and comfortable hotel options.

Family-friendly places to stay nearby

Families visiting from out of town will find several comfortable hotel options nearby. Hotel Philco in Crystal Beach is a top-rated choice just a short drive from the track, offering a cozy stay close to Lake Erie's beaches. For those wanting to explore Niagara Falls after the races, Acacia Bed and Breakfast and the Cadillac Motel both offer family-friendly accommodations with convenient amenities.

Acacia Bed and BreakfastNiagara Falls · 22.6 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.7 Google ratingGuesthouse offering rooms with en suite bathrooms, plus free Western or Asian-fusion breakfast. Cadillac MotelNiagara Falls · 22.6 km away · 4.2 local rating · 4.6 Google ratingStraightforward rooms with TVs, minifridges & microwaves, plus free parking & Wi-Fi. Hotel PhilcoCrystal Beach · 11.9 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.9 Google rating Legends on the NiagaraNiagara Falls · 16.6 km away · 4.8 local rating · 4.6 Google ratingNiagara Falls golf course wedding venue with classic landscapes and Niagara Parks hospitality. Sterling Inn & SpaNiagara Falls · 22.7 km away · 4.8 local rating · 4.6 Google ratingContemporary rooms with fireplaces & rainfall showers in a spa hotel featuring a restaurant/bar.

Easy places to eat with a group

Fort Erie offers a variety of casual and family-friendly dining spots close to the race track. Waffle Bandits is a local favorite for sweet and savory waffles, perfect for a treat before or after the races. For something different, Niagara Samosa Factory serves up fresh, flavorful vegan and vegetarian options, while The King Edward Tavern offers a classic sports bar atmosphere for a relaxed meal. If your family loves Middle Eastern cuisine, Tahini's Shawarma and Osmow's Shawarma are both highly rated and just a short drive away.

Waffle BanditsFort Erie · 2.0 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.9 Google rating Niagara Samosa FactoryFort Erie · 1.9 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.8 Google rating The King Edward TavernFort Erie · 2.1 km away · 4.8 local rating · 4.9 Google rating Tahini's ShawarmaFort Erie · 1.2 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.8 Google rating Osmow's ShawarmaFort Erie · 1.4 km away · 5.0 local rating · 4.8 Google rating Left of Central | Board Game CafeFort Erie · 1.9 km away · 4.8 local rating · 4.8 Google rating

Getting around

Free parking is available at Fort Erie Race Track, making it easy to arrive by car. The venue is accessible from major roads, and most dining and hotel options are within a 10-20 minute drive. Plan to arrive early for the best parking spots and to enjoy the pre-race atmosphere.

Local tips

• Arrive early to grab a good spot in the grandstand or picnic area.
• Bring binoculars for a closer view of the action on the track.
• Check the race schedule online for special family-themed race days.
• Pack snacks and water, but save room for treats from local eateries.
• Explore nearby Crystal Beach for a relaxing end to your race day.