I would welcome an age limit for the Top of the Turf. Small children disrupt the ambience at times. Food is consistent but nachos should be warm and cheese melted. They come out cold each time we get them. Waitstaff is the BEST. Hostess very nice and pleasant. We always enjoy ourselves.
The facility is good, but not very clean. The prices are very reasonable. This was my first time to the horse races. It seems silly that the races are 30 minutes apart. However, that is necessary to take in the bets. It is good cheap fun.
It’s too bad this is the closest horse racing venue to St. Louis. It has a long history and potential to be great, but they missed the mark every way possible. Long lines, terrible customer service, dirty facilities, no signs or direction, no one knows what was going on, horrible food, and horrific planning for major events. I hope they can make this place great again someday. A really sad experience.
So generally, Fairmount is a great place to go for inexpensive fun and (mostly) harmless gambling. However, be sure to avoid special days, like Derby days... oh boy, are they short-handed for that. I was unable to place my bets in three of the seven races (gave up on eighth) because the line was so slow. Not sure if it was inexperienced clerks, technical issues, or newbie betters, but it was a disaster. That said, I usually go 5 or 6 times a season and it's no problem, and they usually have drink and food specials. The staff is great. Just avoid the special days and you'll be fine.
Great day to watch horse racing during Kentucky Derby 2018! Easy to navigate around the area for bets and food. Free parking is huge and valet parking is only $3. Local draft beer 16oz is $7
This was the first time I have been to Fairmount Park. We went on a Saturday night and had made reservations at the restaurant Top of the Turf. It was on the top floor of the complex. We did not have to pay to park or to enter the race track. Once you enter the track you can either stay outside and watch the races or you can go to one of the restaurants inside one of the complexes. I am not sure if you need reservations for the other restaurant.