Charlottetown Driving Park in Canada
Charlottetown Driving Park, a prestigious harness racing establishment, is situated in Canada's Prince Edward Island. A fascinating history, vibrant here-and-now, plus a certain future in the harness racing industry makes Charlottetown Driving Park a number one racing fan destination. Recently gaining the designation of racino, Charlottetown Driving Park Entertainment Center offers year-round entertainment and fun.
Charlottetown Driving Park (CDP) was founded in October 1889 beside the Hillsborough River in what was then the rural area of Parkdale. Within no time at all, CDP was considered one of Canada’s top race tracks. The judges’ stand which was built during 1889 still stands today after restorations in 1999. Also restored in 1999 was Canada’s first starting gate constructed in 1948. Charlottetown’s original grandstand was severely damaged in 2003 by Hurricane Juan and was reconstructed to include a racino. Back in 1990 the Charlottetown Civic Center was added to the Driving Park structure. In the period between 2003 and 2005 CDP underwent several improvements including adjustments to the track, better lighting and the addition of a gaming facility.
Often referred to as the “Kentucky of Canada”, Charlottetown Driving Park Entertainment Center hosts a number of renowned exciting harness racing events. Every August the “Old Home Week” is held with 15 race programs over a period of 9 days. Since 1960 the Gold Cup and Saucer have rounded off the Old Home Week. Many celebrities, and even royalty, have attended the exciting exhibition through its years of operation.
Charlottetown Driving Park Entertainment Center boasts high-tech facilities for live pari-mutuel harness racing from April to January as well as simulcast wagering. The great simulcasting schedule ensures that racing fans are always satisfied. The Casino section of the Driving Park features about 225 slot machines for endless hours of entertainment. When hunger strikes, patrons can enjoy meals and snacks at Coolers, The Top of the Park Dining Room and Fractions Lounge. Parking and admission into CDP are free of charge and the facility is easily reached as it sits on the Kensington Street bus route. Racegoers looking for a complete race day experience will without doubt thrive at Charlottetown Driving Park Entertainment Center.
