Hot Springs, Arkansas - Oaklawn - Horse Racing/Gaming

In case you don't want to go to the historic district and spend lots of money on T-Shirts and soaps ( will explain that later), you have this option.  Still in business and drawing in the crowds is Oaklawn built in 1904. 
. Back in those days, Hot Springs became a haven for notorious criminals and mobsters, including Owen “Owney” Madden, Charles “Lucky” Luciano, and Al Capone. There is a gangster museum in town detailing the lively history between the spas, horse track, and baseball...

 We found a gate opened and decided they wanted us to take a tour.  Though we don't have too much knowledge of horse racing; the track's website says they have boasting rights to the following champions since opening:  Temperence Hill, Cigar, Curlin, Paseana, Azeri, Tiffany Lass, Smarty Jones, Afleet Alex, Rachel Alexandra, Lookin At Lucky, Blind Luck and Zenyatta and hosts Triple Crown contenders annually.

It is a huge complex, row upon row of stables that bustle with activity during January through April. 

coming 'round the bend...Lucky Horseshoes by a nose...

Horse racing with a church steeple in the background.