Beirut Hippodrome: A Historic Racetrack
Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Beirut Hippodrome, a historic landmark and vibrant social hub in the heart of Beirut.
The Beirut Hippodrome, officially named Hippodrome du Parc de Beyrouth, stands as a testament to Lebanon's rich equestrian heritage. Originally established in 1885 in the Bir Hassan suburb, it was relocated in 1918 to its current location adjacent to Abdallah Yafi Avenue, near the Beirut Pine Woods. The hippodrome was completed in 1921. In its heyday, particularly in the 1960s, the Beirut Hippodrome was one of the busiest racetracks globally, hosting races twice a week throughout the year. The Lebanese civil war, however, disrupted its operations, with the venue lying along the Green Line that divided the city. Despite the challenges, racing continued intermittently, and the hippodrome has remained a symbol of Lebanese history, weathering both glamour and crises. Today, the Beirut Hippodrome is managed by the Society for the Protection and Valorization of the Arab Horse in Lebanon (SPARCA). It holds races primarily on Sundays, offering an atmospheric day trip for visitors. The venue also hosts events such as the Garden Show & Spring Festival, attracting numerous international visitors. The Hippodrome is not just a racetrack; it's a place where different religious communities converge, with Christians often involved as horse owners, Muslims as stable hands, and the Dom community as jockeys. Visitors to the Beirut Hippodrome can experience the excitement of live horse racing events, enjoy local snacks and refreshments, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. Vestiges of ancient constructions, such as columns, are visible in the center of the track.
Local tips
- Check the race schedule in advance to plan your visit and catch the most exciting events.
- Arrive early to secure good viewing spots and fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Try the local snacks available at the venue for an authentic culinary experience.
- Consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
A brief summary to Beirut Hippodrome
- VGH6+7MX, Beirut, LB
- Visit website
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From various points in Beirut, you can take a bus or a 'service' (shared taxi) towards the Hippodrome. Look for buses labeled 'Beirut' or 'Gemmayze'. The bus fare typically ranges from LBP 70,000 to LBP 100,000. A shared taxi ('service') within Beirut costs around LBP 150,000. From the bus station or drop-off point, you might need to take a regular taxi to the Hippodrome, which should cost approximately LBP 600,000 for a short trip within the city.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. A standard taxi ride within the city to the Beirut Hippodrome typically costs around LBP 600,000. However, it's crucial to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey, as many taxis do not use a meter. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are also available in Beirut. Keep in mind that taxi fares can be higher at night or during peak hours.
