This Massive Entertainment Facility is a Hidden Gem

Published August 27, 2019 at 2:02 pm

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If you drive up the 401 through the bustling, green and scenic Halton Region, you’ll come across a tucked away gem that has more than stood the test of time by offering people something that will get their adrenaline pumping: thrilling horse racing.

Woodbine Mohawk Park, a sprawling facility that has been hosting pulse-pounding horse races in Campbellville, Ontario since 1963, is not only known for racing. The sizeable facility, which boasts a harness racing track that spans 7/8ths of a mile, is beloved for being a family-friendly destination that offers one-of-kind events, casual and upscale dining experiences, elegant accommodations for special events, an on-site casino and more.

So whether you’re looking to spend some time watching the races (and betting on your favourite standardbred horse) with friends or enjoy a fabulous meal with family, Woodbine Mohawk Park has something for you.

And you might be surprised by some fun facts you never knew about the facility.


5) It has events all year-round that you don’t want to miss 

When you walk into Mohawk, you might be greeted by a horse who is stationed outside to provide guests with a cute (and perhaps unexpected) introduction to the classic, spacious facility. While the racetrack and its impressive stadium seating might be the main event for anyone looking to bet on (or simply watch) the trotters and pacers, guests should remember that Mohawk hosts exciting events all year long.

What can you expect at Mohawk? The park offers fireworks and family fun nights, beverage tastings (from now until December), country rock concerts, high-energy seminars, holiday celebrations and more.

It’s also home to the highly-anticipated Pepsi North America Cup.

In fact, you can check out the calendar of events here.


4) It has a ton of dining options, including a farm-to-table restaurant! 

Once guests settle into Mohawk and purchase their programs for the day’s races (or just pick a spot to sit to watch the horses), they typically look for a place to eat. Fortunately for diners, there is no shortage of options. Much like any other sports stadium, Mohawk offers a mix of dining options that suit any budget and compliment any experience.

Guests looking for a quick bite to eat can grab a burger, pizza or hot dog at the facility’s concession stands or take a break at the indoor food court. Those who want to make the most of the warm weather can check out the Corona Deck, a stylish new bar situated right in front of the race track. Diners who want to enjoy classic pub fare can do so at the cozy and long-standing Trackside Bar and Patio, which offers a view of the racing action.

Guests who want to enjoy a more upscale sit-down meal have a few choice options as well. The Terrace Trackside Buffet, which is fronted by the facility’s stunning floor to ceiling windows, serves up everything from sizzling prime rib and grilled or pan-seared fish and seafood to seasonal roasted vegetables.

The new Mohawk Harvest Kitchen, which offers a view of the action and indoor and outdoor stadium-style seating (no one will miss a thing), is ideal for diners looking to linger over fresh, farm-to-table fare. An extension of the Terrace dining room, this open-concept lounge offers specialty cocktails, beer, wine and elevated classics. You don’t want to miss the signature MHK burger.


3) You don’t have to bet to enjoy horse racing 

Guests might think that the track isn’t for them if they’re not interested in betting on the on- and off-site races, but that’s simply not true. While Mohawk can help anyone place their bets and wager on their favourite horse and driver (the environment is not at all intimidating for newcomers), the facility allows people to spend as much–or as little–as they want on entertainment.

Families and friends who visit Mohawk are free to grab a seat inside or outside (in fact, there’s ample outdoor seating during the warmer months) and watch the almost daily races (races are held every day but Wednesday and Sunday). Mohawk does not charge admission and parking is completely complimentary.

If you do want to place a bet, there’s no pressure to spend anymore than you’re comfortable with. If you don’t want to bet at all, you can simply cheer for your favourite horse and enjoy the action. Imagine, a night of live entertainment that costs less than a movie!


2) It uses specific horses and race techniques 

Horse racing is an age-old tradition that appeals to animal lovers of all ages, so it’s not surprising that many guests come out to admire the tall and beautiful horses who race around the track. While the park does not house horses 24-7 (they’re brought in from neighbouring areas), guests who arrive on race day can admire dozens upon dozens of sleek brown standardbred horses.

For those who are unaware, the standardbred is an American horse breed best known for its ability in harness racing (which is the type of racing you’ll see at Mohawk). The North American horse is recognized worldwide, and the breed can trace its bloodlines to 18th-century England.

Horse lovers should note that Mohawk offers guided tours for customers who want to meet the horses and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the behind the scenes action.


1) You can host a party here in a private room 

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is fast approaching, but with fall just around the corner, the time to start looking for that perfect party destination is now. Fortunately for Halton, Mississauga, Brampton and GTA residents, Mohawk offers a ton of elegant, fully-loaded rooms or various sizes that are ideal for private and corporate events. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail reception or a corporate meeting, a group experience at Mohawk is a memorable one.

If you’re interested in hosting an event at Mohawk, you can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that will accommodate both large and small groups–and Woodbine staff will be more than happy to help you plan your gathering.

Guests can choose to host their event in a number of spots, including the Pepsi North America Cup Room, the Terrace Trackside Buffet, the Trackside Bar and Patio, the Corona Bar and the Mohawk suites (which offer chef-inspired menus).

To learn more about how to book an event, click here.

To learn more about Woodbine Mohawk Park, click here.

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