Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, Presque Isle Downs & Casino offers both a large gaming floor and thoroughbred horse racetracks for residents and visitors alike. This casino opened in 2007 solely as a horse racetrack but has evolved and changed along with the state?s gambling landscape. The original racetrack was developed by MTR Gaming Group and is now owned and operated by Churchill Downs Inc.
Facts About Presque Isle Downs & Casino
| Year Opened | 2007 |
| Address | 8199 Perry Highway, Summit Township, Pennsylvania, 16509 |
| Phone Number | 866-ERIE-FUN |
| Inclusion of Hotel | No |
| Number of Slots | 1,500+ |
| Number of Table Games | 32+ |
| Minimum Age for Gambling | 21 years old |
Online Gambling And Sports Betting Options At Presque Isle Downs & Casino
When the government decided to allow sports betting and online gambling in Pennsylvania, Presque Isle Downs & Casino jumped on board. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board approved the casino’s sports betting license in February 2019. The casino decided to construct a new sportsbook with 50 kiosks for self-betting. These kiosks went into operation in August 2019 and now allow betting on a variety of sports games.
In December 2019, the casino soft-launched an online sportsbook. It is operated by BetAmerica and launched officially on December 19, 2019. The casino also offers online casino games through the same partner for anyone who resides in Pennsylvania.
Check out our comprehensive guide to Pennsylvania Sports Betting.
History Of Presque Isle Downs & Casino
Presque Isle Downs & Casino resides in Summit Township in Erie County, Pennsylvania. Construction started in 2005 and the horse racing track and casino opened officially in February 2007. Later that year, a one-mile oval track opened. It is the longest track paved with Tapeta footlongs in the United States.
Many prestigious races occurred at Presque Isle Downs & Casino, including the Presque Isle Mile, the Presque Isle Downs Master Stakes, and the Tom Ridge Stakes. Additionally, the Karl Boyes Memorial Stakes, the HPBA Stakes, and the Fitz Dixon, JR. Memorial Juvenile Stakes used the track.
In August 2007, the original Peach Street simulcasting for the casino was transferred to the racetrack. Originally owned by Eldorado Resorts, who were the successors to MTR Gaming, Churchill Downs Inc purchased the resort and casino in 2019 for approximately $180 million.
Provided Loyalty Program At Presque Isle Downs & Casino
Presque Isle Downs & Casino offers a free loyalty club known as Player?s Club that is easy to sign up for. In order to register, you simply need to visit the Guest Services desk with your photo ID. Casino-goers can earn points by playing slot machines, taking part in table games, or playing hands of poker.?
Points earned on your loyalty card can be redeemed for a variety of items, including free slots, food and drinks at any Presque Isle Downs restaurants or bars, and merchandise from Churchill?s Bourbon and Brew.?
The Player?s Club has four tiers with progressively increasing benefits. The tiers include:
- First Tier (1) ? 0 to 9,999 points
- Second Tier (2) ? 10,000 to 74,999 points
- Third Tier (3) ? 75,000 to 199,999 points
- Fourth Tier (4) ? 200,000+ points
Members in Tier 1 have access to free valet parking, those in Tier 3 enjoy a casino host, and those in the coveted Tier 4 earn priority parking, priority lines at guest services and the Backstretch Buffet, and much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Presque Isle Downs & Casino open for business?
On February 28, 2007. While the casino opened for business in February 2007, its initial construction began in October 2005. Developed by MTR Gaming Group, the casino is now owned and operated by Churchill Downs Inc.
Which major city is the closest to the casino?
The closest major city is Newark, New Jersey, which is 95 miles from the casino. Jersey City is approximately 99 miles, and other major cities that are more than 100 miles away include New York City, Philadelphia, Rochester, Baltimore, and Buffalo.
Does the casino offer a buffet restaurant?
Yes. Backstretch Buffet serves a buffet-style selection of dishes. It?s located on the main casino level and has three specialty buffets that occur on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The buffet is offered at a discount for those who are a part of the casino?s Players Club.
Is there a steakhouse at the casino?
Yes. Presque Isle Downs & Casino is home to the classic LBV Steakhouse, which offers a wide selection of wine and steak pairings in an upscale atmosphere. Some of the other dishes offered include crab cakes, scallops, lobster tail, and beef Wellington. Other restaurants include buffets and casual cafes.
Is there a poker room at the casino?
Yes. There is a poker room that is open every day as long as there are players in the casino. Presque Isle Downs & Casino offers seven tables in the poker room and hosts a variety of games including from Omaha to Texas Hold?Em. In addition to traditional games, the casino also provides single and multi-table tournaments, special events, and promotions for poker players.?
Is the casino smoke-free?
No. The entirety of Presque Isle Downs & Casino is not smoke-free. However, there are significant portions of the casino where smoking is not allowed, including the state-of-the-art poker room. Pennsylvania law requires casinos to have at least 50 percent of the establishment designated as non-smoking, so both smokers and non-smokers can enjoy the atmosphere while gambling.
Is valet parking available at the casino?
Yes. Valet parking is available at Presque Isle Downs & Casino for a small fee. Self-parking is also available and the parking lots are secure. For those who prefer not to drive, bus lines run between the casino and major cities nearby.
Does the casino include sports betting?
Yes. Presque Isle Downs & Casino obtained its license for sports betting in early 2019. The casino revealed plans shortly after to build a sportsbook and install 50 kiosks for betting. In August 2019, those self-betting kiosks became available and are operated by BetAmerica for those at the physical casino. Additionally, in December 2019, an online sportsbook soft-launched and soon became a permanent fixture.
What is the minimum age to gamble at the casino?
21-years old. This is the same requirement for all Pennsylvania casinos. However, individuals who are 18-years old may bet on horse races and other games of chance.
?Does the casino have a dress code?
No. While some casinos have a dress code for those who enter the casino floor or the horse racing grounds, Presque Isle Downs & Casino does not. Patrons of the casino and racetrack are welcome to wear whatever makes them comfortable.