Las Vegas Recap
What Happens in Vegas Doesn't Always Last in Vegas
Ever wonder why the gambling capital of the country has no racetrack, well it's not for lack of trying. In 1953 Las Vegas Park (pictured above) turf course and all, opened with high expectation. It lasted all of thirteen days, back then there weren't many locals and the tourist just wanted the casinos .
In 1963 the Thunderbird Hotel built a racetrack in it's backyard called Thunderbird Downs the five eights oval featured quarter horse and thoroughbred racing. This venue lasted for three years before throwing in the towel in 1966.
Lastly, was a place called Las Vegas Downs, built in Henderson just outside of Vegas, in the early eighties. The half mile dual purpose dog and horse track lasted a few years, featuring mostly dog racing.