Beirut Hippodrome: A Historic Racetrack

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Experience the thrill of horse racing at Beirut Hippodrome, a historic landmark and green space in the heart of Beirut.

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Beirut Hippodrome

The Beirut Hippodrome, a horse-racing facility with a rich history, stands adjacent to Horsh Beirut. Established in 1885 and later moved in 1918, it has been a focal point for horse racing enthusiasts and a unique cultural intersection in the city.

A brief summary to Beirut Hippodrome

VGH6+7MX, Beirut, LB
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Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Check the schedule in advance, as races are typically held on Sundays, except during the summer months of July and August when they are held on Saturdays.
Arrive early to watch the horses train in the morning, as over 700 horses train on the track from dawn until 8:30 am.
Explore the grounds, which include the racetrack, training course, stables, and a paddock where horses are presented before races.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From central Beirut, you can take a public bus or a 'service' (shared taxi) towards the Hippodrome. Bus routes are not always clearly marked, so it's best to ask locals for the correct route. A bus ride within Beirut costs around 75,000 LBP. Alternatively, a 'service' taxi charges a fixed rate per person, typically around 150,000 LBP within the city. Be sure to confirm the price before getting in.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Beirut. A regular taxi ride to the Hippodrome from downtown Beirut will cost approximately 600,000 LBP. It's advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as many taxis do not use a meter. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are also available and may offer fixed rates.
Walking

If you are near Horsh Beirut, you can easily walk to the Hippodrome. Enter Horsh Beirut and follow the paths towards the Hippodrome, which is located on the park's perimeter. There is no fee for park entry.

Discover more about Beirut Hippodrome

The Beirut Hippodrome, officially named Hippodrome Du Parc De Beyrouth, has been a part of Lebanon's history and culture since its establishment. Initially built in 1885 in Bir Hassan, it was moved in 1918 to its current location next to Horsh Beirut. The land is owned by the Municipality of Beirut and managed by SPARCA, a non-profit dedicated to the protection and improvement of Arabian horses in Lebanon. Inaugurated in 1921, the Hippodrome quickly became a popular venue, reaching its peak in the 1960s when it hosted races twice a week, drawing visitors from across the Middle East. Even during the Lebanese Civil War, the Hippodrome continued to hold races intermittently, becoming a symbol of resilience. Today, races are typically held on Sundays, except during July and August when they shift to Saturdays. Beyond its sporting events, the Beirut Hippodrome is a place where different communities converge. Horse owners are primarily Christian, stable hands are Muslim, and jockeys are often from the Dom ethnic group, highlighting a unique social dynamic. The Hippodrome also hosts the annual Garden Show & Spring Festival, attracting numerous exhibitors and visitors.

Explore the best of what Beirut Hippodrome has to offer

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