Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel: A Comprehensive Guide to Gambling, Entertainment, and Relaxation
Nestled in the heart of the Iowa prairie, Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel is a premier destination for gambling, entertainment, and relaxation. With its spacious casino floor, thrilling racetrack, and luxurious hotel accommodations, Prairie Meadows offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Casino
The casino at Prairie Meadows is a gambler's paradise, boasting over 1,700 slot machines and 60 table games. The slots range from classic reel machines to the latest video slots, catering to every taste and budget. Table games include blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker, with stakes ranging from low to high.
Racetrack
Prairie Meadows is home to one of the most popular thoroughbred racetracks in the Midwest. The track hosts live races from April to October, featuring some of the top horses in the country. Races are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, with post times varying throughout the season.
Hotel
The Prairie Meadows Hotel offers a luxurious stay for guests, with 285 spacious rooms and suites. The rooms are elegantly appointed with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a fitness center, indoor pool, and sauna for guests to enjoy.
Dining
Prairie Meadows offers a wide range of dining options to suit every palate. The Prairie Meadows Buffet serves up a feast of American comfort food, while El Jefe offers authentic Mexican cuisine. The Rail is a casual dining spot with a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and salads. For those looking for a fine dining experience, The Willows offers a menu of upscale dishes prepared by Chef Michael Smith.
Amenities
Prairie Meadows offers a multitude of amenities to enhance guests' stay, including:
-
Free parking for over 3,000 vehicles
-
Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
-
Shuttle service to and from the Des Moines International Airport
-
Concierge services to help guests book tours and activities
-
Gift shop with a wide selection of souvenirs and gifts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the most of your visit to Prairie Meadows, avoid these common mistakes:
-
Not checking the dress code. Prairie Meadows has a casual dress code, but certain areas of the casino and hotel may require more formal attire.
-
Not making reservations. The hotel and restaurants can get busy, especially on weekends. Call ahead or book online to avoid disappointment.
-
Not signing up for the loyalty program. The Prairie Meadows Rewards Club offers members exclusive rewards and discounts.
-
Not bringing your ID. You will need to show your ID to enter the casino and to purchase alcohol.
-
Not having fun! Prairie Meadows is a place to enjoy yourself. Relax, gamble responsibly, and have a great time.
How to Get There
Prairie Meadows is located just 10 miles south of Des Moines, Iowa, at 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona, Iowa 50009. The casino is easily accessible by car, taking Interstate 80 to Exit 115.
Step-by-Step Approach to a Fun Day at Prairie Meadows
-
Plan your day. Decide what games you want to play, what shows you want to see, and what restaurants you want to dine at.
-
Make reservations. Call ahead or book online to avoid disappointment.
-
Arrive early. This will give you plenty of time to park, check in, and find your way around.
-
Sign up for the loyalty program. Earn rewards and discounts on future visits.
-
Have fun! Relax, gamble responsibly, and enjoy all that Prairie Meadows has to offer.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of admission to the casino?
There is no cost of admission to the casino.
2. What are the hours of operation for the casino?
The casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. What is the minimum age to gamble at the casino?
The minimum age to gamble at the casino is 21.
4. What is the dress code for the casino?
The dress code for the casino is casual.
5. Can I bring my children to the casino?
Children under the age of 18 are not allowed in the casino.
6. Are there any smoking areas in the casino?
There are designated smoking areas throughout the casino.
7. Can I park my RV at the casino?
Yes, there is a RV park located adjacent to the casino.
8. How do I get to Prairie Meadows from Des Moines?
Prairie Meadows is located just 10 miles south of Des Moines, Iowa, at 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona, Iowa 50009. The casino is easily accessible by car, taking Interstate 80 to Exit 115.
Tables
Table 1: Slot Machine Payouts
| Denomination |
Payout Percentage |
| $0.01 |
95% |
| $0.05 |
94% |
| $0.25 |
93% |
| $1.00 |
92% |
| $5.00 |
91% |
Table 2: Table Game Minimums and Maximums
| Game |
Minimum |
Maximum |
| Blackjack |
$5 |
$5,000 |
| Roulette |
$1 |
$500 |
| Craps |
$5 |
$5,000 |
| Poker |
$1 |
$500 |
Table 3: Hotel Room Rates
| Room Type |
Weekday Rate |
Weekend Rate |
| Standard Room |
$129 |
$149 |
| Deluxe Room |
$149 |
$169 |
| Suite |
$299 |
$349 |
Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel: A Comprehensive Guide
Nestled in the heartland of Iowa, Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel stands as a premier entertainment and hospitality destination. With its sprawling casino, exciting racetrack, and luxurious accommodations, it offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all types.
Casino Thrills and Gaming Excitement
The Prairie Meadows Casino boasts an expansive gaming floor featuring over 1,500 slot machines from classic favorites to the latest high-limit offerings. Guests can also indulge in table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat, or try their luck at a variety of poker tournaments.
Racetrack Action and Equestrian Excellence
Adrenaline seekers will be captivated by the Prairie Meadows Racetrack, one of Iowa's premier racing facilities. The track hosts year-round live races featuring Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse competitions, including the Grade III Iowa Derby. With its spacious grandstand, comfortable seating, and betting windows, it provides an unforgettable race-day experience.
Hotel Luxury and Amenities
For those seeking relaxation and indulgence, the Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel offers 220 elegantly appointed rooms and suites. Each room features plush furnishings, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including fine dining at the Clark's Steakhouse or casual dining at the Prairie Cafe.
Other Attractions and Activities
In addition to its casino, racetrack, and hotel, Prairie Meadows offers a host of other attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. These include:
-
Events center: Hosting concerts, sporting events, and trade shows.
-
Golf course: An 18-hole championship course designed by Arnold Palmer.
-
RV campground: With full hookups for overnight stays.
Economic Impact and Community Involvement
Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel plays a significant role in the local economy. According to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission:
| Fiscal Year |
Direct Impact on GDP |
Total Taxes Generated |
| 2021 |
$271 million |
$74 million |
| 2022 (est.) |
$300 million |
$80 million |
The casino also actively supports various community initiatives, including:
| Organization |
Annual Contribution |
| United Way of Central Iowa |
$250,000 |
| Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation |
$100,000 |
| Blank Children's Hospital |
$50,000 |
Stories of Impact
Story 1: The Winning Streak
A recent visitor to Prairie Meadows Casino, Mandy, struck it rich at one of the slot machines, winning a $1 million jackpot. Her lucky streak allowed her to pay off her mortgage and retire early.
What We Learn: Lady Luck can strike at any time, making it always worth taking a chance.
Story 2: The Race to Recovery
Equestrian therapist, Sarah, uses the Prairie Meadows Racetrack for hippotherapy (horseback riding as therapy). Her clients with disabilities have shown remarkable improvements in balance, coordination, and self-confidence.
What We Learn: Even in unexpected places, we can find inspiration and healing.
Story 3: A Family Getaway
The Johnson family enjoyed a memorable weekend at Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel. They stayed in a spacious suite, enjoyed meals at the various restaurants, and watched exciting races at the track.
What We Learn: Prairie Meadows offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for family vacations.
How to Visit Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel
Step 1: Plan Your Trip
- Check the casino's website for upcoming events and promotions.
- Book your hotel room or RV space in advance, especially during peak season.
Step 2: Arrive and Experience
- The casino is located at 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona, Iowa 50009.
- Parking is free for guests and visitors.
Step 3: Enjoy the Excitement
- Explore the casino floor, place bets at the racetrack, or relax in the hotel's luxurious amenities.
- Take advantage of the various dining options and other attractions.
FAQs
Q1: What is the legal gambling age at Prairie Meadows Casino?
A1: 21 years of age.
Q2: Does the hotel offer non-smoking rooms?
A2: Yes, non-smoking rooms are available upon request.
Q3: What are the hours of operation for the casino?
A3: The casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q4: Can I bring my RV to Prairie Meadows?
A4: Yes, the RV campground is open from April 15 to October 15.
Q5: Are there any dress code restrictions?
A5: Casual attire is acceptable in all areas except Clark's Steakhouse, which has a business casual dress code.
Q6: Does Prairie Meadows Casino offer any loyalty programs?
A6: Yes, the Meadows Rewards Club offers discounts, promotions, and other perks to loyal customers.
Q7: Are there any nearby attractions to visit?
A7: Yes, within a short drive from Prairie Meadows are the Blank Park Zoo, the Des Moines Art Center, and the Living History Farms.
Q8: What is the best time to visit Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack Hotel?
A8: Weekends and holidays tend to be more crowded, so consider visiting during the week or off-season for a quieter experience.
