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Blue Ribbon Downs Tickets

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The venue

About Blue Ribbon Downs

Blue Ribbon Downs sits at 3700 West Cherokee Ave in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Once a bustling racetrack and racino, this historic venue opened in 1963 and played a significant role in Oklahoma racing history, including Oklahoma's first pari-mutuel race in 1984. While the grandstands were demolished in 2022 and there is no active racing as of 2026, the track and barns continue to operate as a training facility under ongoing oversight. This page provides a complete overview of the venue, with practical information on parking, transportation, and nearby lodging and dining you can trust as you plan a visit to the area.

We’ve got you covered with clear, non-salesy guidance to help you secure arrangements locally, whether you’re researching history, coordinating a visit, or connecting with nearby amenities. While current racing activity is not ongoing, Blue Ribbon Downs remains a landmark in Oklahoma’s horse racing heritage.

Venue details at a glance: Blue Ribbon Downs is located in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, a short drive from nearby towns and convenient for travelers exploring eastern Oklahoma. For visitors seeking modern lodging, dining, and transportation options, we’ve highlighted affiliate-friendly recommendations to simplify planning. If you’re curious about future developments or events, keep an eye on official partner channels for updates. And remember, we’re here to help you secure your arrangements with straightforward, reliable service.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Location/Address: Blue Ribbon Downs, 3700 West Cherokee Ave, Sallisaw, OK 74955.
  • Venue type: historic horse racing track; at times operated as a racino under different ownerships.
  • Capacity: approximately 3,000 spectators (noted in mid-1990s coverage).
  • Opened/Closed: opened 1963; closed November 28, 2009.
  • Current status: grandstands demolished in 2022; track and barns remain as a training facility; no active racing as of 2026.
  • Ownership: purchased by the Choctaw Nation (2003), then by the Cherokee Nation (December 2009); no immediate plans to reopen as a racetrack.
  • Notable events: Oklahoma's first pari-mutuel race occurred August 30, 1984 (crowds near 12,000); historically hosted major regional racing events such as the Hopes and Dreams Futurity and other Quarter Horse/Thoroughbred racing.
  • Parking: historically offered parking (group packages often included parking); current parking specifics not publicly published.
  • Transit: KiBois Area Transit System (KATS) serves Sallisaw; Cherokee Nation Transit partners operate in the area.
  • Nearby hotels: Quality Inn Sallisaw (710 Kerr Blvd); Blue Ribbon Inn & Suites (706 Kerr Blvd) and other local lodging.