Hawthorne Race Course

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News: As of September 2025, the planned casino at Hawthorne Race Course & Fanatics Sportsbook has yet to break ground despite receiving preliminary approval years ago. The long-delayed “racino” project at the family-owned racetrack at Hawthorne's suburban Chicago location has faced repeated setbacks, primarily over financing. According to HRC president Tim Carey, the project is now in the final stages of securing financing, with an update expected in the fourth quarter of 2025. If progress is confirmed, the casino could open by late 2027. Meanwhile, Fanatics Sportsbook—which replaced PointsBet in March 2024—continues to operate retail sports betting at Hawthorne and its off-track betting sites.

Owned by the Carey Family, Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney, Illinois, near Chicago, is about 10 minutes from the airport. Since 1892, Hawthorne has been home to some of the best horse racing in the state. Hawthorne now has several betting options on and off the track.

You can bet on live races, on their dirt track, and harness races on select days. There's also simulcast betting inside the venue and several OTB locations in Illinois. Throughout the year, Hawthorne has several major events and races. Breeders' Cup events, pool parties, handicapping contests and much more.

Hawthorne offers a buffet and convention services, including The Gold Cup Dining Room. Meetings, weddings, or other events, can be accommodated via Hawthornes' indoor, and outdoor venues. 

Hawthorne runs Illinois’ largest network of off-track betting bars, which now includes three Fanatics Sportsbooks along with a retail sportsbook at the racetrack itself. On July 30, 2020, the Illinois Gaming Board gave the green light for the operator to pursue a $400 million project—the state’s first-ever racetrack casino development.

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Dining & Restaurants

Gold Cup Dining Room

• Serving: Steak, Buffet

The Gold Cup Dining Room serves classic American cuisine, along with other entrees, inspired from all over. The main attraction is the buffet that runs from 1:30, until 4 PM.

General

Price range: Budget

Reservations: (708) 780 3733

Attire: Casual

Buffet

Hawthorne Race Course Venues & Hotspots

Groups and Events

Hawthorne has several facilities for group events and get togethers. There are indoor, and outdoor venues for rent. Hawthorne has trained staff to help cater, service any event, of any nature. Be it a wedding, business meeting, or convention.