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Beirut Hippodrome: A Historic Horse Racing Venue

Experience the thrill of horse racing and cultural events at Beirut's historic Hippodrome, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

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The Beirut Hippodrome, a historic horse-racing track in the heart of Beirut, offers a unique blend of entertainment and Lebanese culture. It stands as one of the city's largest green spaces, providing a refreshing escape with weekly races and a variety of events.

A brief summary to Beirut Hippodrome

  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the racing schedule in advance, as races typically occur on Sundays, except during the summer when they are held on Thursday evenings.
  • Arrive early to secure good viewing spots and fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.
  • Try local snacks and refreshments available at the venue for an authentic Lebanese culinary experience.
  • Consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in Beirut, take a bus or a 'service' (shared taxi) towards the Hippodrome. Look for buses labeled 'Beirut' or 'Gemmayze'. Bus fares typically range from LBP 3,000 to LBP 5,000. A 'service' ride within Beirut costs around LBP 150,000. From the bus station or drop-off point, a regular taxi to the Hippodrome will cost approximately LBP 600,000 for the first 5km.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. A standard taxi ride within the city to the Beirut Hippodrome typically costs around LBP 600,000 as a base fare. The final fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions. It's advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of Achrafieh or Badaro, walking to the Beirut Hippodrome is a viable option. From the center of Broummana, walk along Jdeideh Road towards Beirut, following signs for Achrafieh and Mar Mikhael. Once in Beirut, the Hippodrome is located on your left. Walking from these areas will take approximately 30-45 minutes.

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Discover more about Beirut Hippodrome

The Beirut Hippodrome, also known as Hippodrome du parc de Beyrouth, is more than just a horse racing venue; it's a vibrant part of Beirut's history and culture. Founded in 1886 and inaugurated in its current configuration in 1923, the hippodrome has been a focal point for entertainment and community gatherings. Located adjacent to the Pine Residence, it offers a vast green space in the bustling city. Throughout its history, the Beirut Hippodrome has witnessed both glamour and crises. In the 1960s, it was one of the busiest racetracks globally, attracting visitors from around the Middle East. Despite the Lebanese Civil War, the hippodrome continued to operate intermittently, symbolizing resilience. Today, it hosts weekly horse races, typically on Sundays, except during summer when they shift to Thursday evenings. Beyond horse racing, the hippodrome hosts various events, including the Garden Show & Spring Festival, which draws over 24,000 visitors from Lebanon and abroad. The venue also provides a space for families, tourists, and sports enthusiasts to enjoy Beirut's natural open space. Vestiges of ancient constructions, such as columns, can be seen in the center of the track, adding a historical touch to the experience. Notably, there's also the Roman Hippodrome of Beirut, discovered in 1988, considered the grandest of five Roman hippodromes in the Levant. While the modern hippodrome carries on the tradition of horse racing, the Roman Hippodrome stands as a historical site, with ongoing efforts to preserve and showcase its archeological significance.

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