Aqueduct opened in 1894 and ran its last race on June 28, closing 132 years of thoroughbred racing and leaving New York City without a track. What remains is a wind-down: the building stays open for simulcast wagering through Monday, September 7, then the state redevelops the 110 acres. This is the last Friday-to-Sunday anyone can walk in.
What to expect
No horses run - live racing ended June 28, and the only activity inside is simulcast wagering on races from other venues. NYRA has not published which floors, windows or food outlets stay open for the final stretch, and Equestris on the third floor is already closed. Treat it as a last look at a mostly empty building, not an event.
Good to know
- No farewell programming this weekend: NYRA's calendar lists no events for Sep 4, 5 or 6. The giveaways and art gallery ran June 27-28.
- NYRA does not publish simulcast hours for the post-racing period - check nyra.com/aqueduct or call before making the trip.
- A train, Far Rockaway branch only, to Aqueduct-North Conduit Av. General on-site parking is typically free.
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Common questions
Will there be live horse racing?
No. Aqueduct's final day of live racing was Sunday, June 28, 2026. Only simulcast wagering on races from other tracks remains.
Is Sunday, September 6 the last day open?
No. NYRA says Aqueduct remains open for simulcasting through Monday, September 7 - Sep 4-6 is simply the last Friday-to-Sunday.
How much does it cost to get in?
General admission to Aqueduct is listed as free, with a security screening; the Longshots simulcast center on the 2nd floor is $10, or $5 for NYRA Bets members.
Is there a farewell ceremony or giveaway?
Not that weekend. The commemorative program - track-dirt giveaway, honorary race names, the photo gallery - ran on closing weekend, June 27-28.
Also in Queens
