The historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland is set to undergo a $400 million transformation as part of a plan to revitalize the 150-year-old track. The demolition process will begin soon after the last horses leave the oval this weekend, ahead of its reopening in 2027.
Pimlico, nicknamed “Old Hilltop,” has hosted the Preakness Stakes since 1873 and is the second-oldest racetrack in the country. However, concerns over safety have led to the closure of nearly 7,000 grandstand seats in 2019, with renovation plans being discussed but never carried out.
The state of Maryland has released design concepts for a new Pimlico Race Course, which will debut in 2027. The facility will feature a new hotel, event space, and Thoroughbred training center, as well as improved safety measures. A new hotel and event space will be built at Shamrock Farm, located about 20 miles west of Pimlico.
The renovation plans aim to promote the future of Thoroughbred racing in Maryland, supporting approximately 500 jobs and over 100 racing days annually. The project has received significant backing from state officials, including Governor Wes Moore, who described it as a “step toward a new, reimagined Pimlico.”
While 1/ST (formerly known as The Stronach Group) transferred operations of Pimlico to the state in January 2025, the company will still oversee the Preakness Stakes this year and next. For 2027 and beyond, Maryland will adopt control over the event.
The track’s history is marked by notable records, including Farma Way’s 1:52 2/5-mile time in the 1991 Pimlico Special and Secretariat’s 1:53 2/5-mile record at the Preakness in 1973.
Source: https://www.nbcsports.com/horse-racing/news/pimlico-race-course-demolition-preakness-stakes-history-location-track-records-renovations