You’ve probably seen it from the Thruway—that massive green-roofed building looming over Central Park Avenue like a relic from a different era. Honestly, if you didn’t know any better, you’d think it was just another sleepy suburban landmark. But Yonkers Raceway and Casino (officially called Empire City by MGM Resorts these days) is basically a chaotic, $850 million piece of New York history that refuses to quit.
It’s been around since 1899. Think about that. When this place opened as the Empire City Trotting Club, people were getting there by horse and buggy. Now, it’s one of the highest-grossing "racinos" in the country, despite some recent corporate drama that has everyone in Westchester scratching their heads.
The $2.3 Billion Bet That Didn't Happen
For the last year, everyone was talking about the "big expansion." MGM Resorts had this wild vision: a $2.3 billion transformation. We’re talking a 5,000-seat performance venue, a massive BetMGM sportsbook, and finally—finally—replacing those computerized "video lottery" machines with actual, live dealers.
But then, things got weird.
In October 2025, MGM suddenly pulled their application for the full commercial casino license. It was a total shocker. One day they’re the frontrunner, and the next, they’re citing "shifted economic assumptions" and walking away from the table. Apparently, the state changed the rules on them, dropping the license term from 30 years down to 15. MGM basically said, "No thanks," and decided to stick with what they have.
So, if you’re heading there today, don’t expect a Vegas-style resort with a hotel and a poker room. It’s still a racino. That means:
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs): They look like slots, they sound like slots, but they’re technically part of the state lottery system.
- Electronic Table Games: You can play blackjack or roulette, but you’re playing against a screen, not a human.
- The Track: The historic half-mile dirt track is still very much alive.
Why the Raceway Actually Matters
People sort of forget that before the bells and whistles of the 4,600+ slot machines, this was a legendary horse racing venue. Seabiscuit raced here. Yeah, the actual Seabiscuit won the Scarsdale Handicap on this dirt back in 1936.
Today, it’s one of the only places in the world that hosts legs of the Triple Crown for both Trotters and Pacers. If you’ve never seen a harness race, it’s kinda different from the Kentucky Derby. The drivers sit in these little carts called sulkies behind the horses. It’s fast, it’s gritty, and it happens year-round—usually Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
The handle—that’s the total amount of money bet—is still impressive. Even with the rise of mobile sports betting apps, there’s something about being at the rail when the horses turn for home. The homestretch was actually elongated back in the 90s to 660 feet, which makes for some pretty dramatic finishes.
The Reality of Gambling in Yonkers
Let’s be real for a second. If you walk onto the gaming floor at Empire City, it’s loud. It’s 290,000 square feet of flashing lights and $10 minimums on electronic blackjack. It’s not "fancy" in the way the Borgata in Atlantic City is, but it’s efficient.
It’s also a massive cash cow for the state. Since MGM took over in 2019, the property has funneled over $1.6 billion into New York’s education fund. Total, since it opened as a casino in 2006, it’s hit over $5 billion. That’s a lot of textbooks and teacher salaries paid for by people chasing a jackpot on Wheel of Fortune or Dragon Link.
What’s actually inside right now?
- The Gaming Floor: Over 4,600 machines. It’s the largest gaming floor in the whole MGM portfolio. More than Las Vegas? Yep.
- Dining: You’ve got the Big Top, some quick-service stuff, and the Empire City Steaks & Spirits. It’s decent, but since the expansion plans stalled, don’t expect those nine new "world-class" restaurants MGM promised anytime soon.
- The Vibe: It’s a mix. You’ve got the local regulars who have their favorite machines and the younger crowd that hits the electronic roulette on Friday nights.
Is It Worth the Trip?
Honestly, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a weekend getaway with a spa and a pool, you’re in the wrong place. There isn’t even a hotel on-site yet (that was part of the cancelled $2.3 billion plan).
But if you’re in the Bronx or lower Westchester and you just want to kill a few hours? It’s the closest thing you’ve got. The fact that the minimum age to play the VLTs is 18 (because it’s technically "lottery") makes it a weird outlier compared to most casinos where you have to be 21.
The racing is the real soul of the place. Even if you aren't a gambler, standing by the track on a crisp October night when the "Messenger Stakes" is running is a vibe you can't get anywhere else in the five boroughs.
What You Should Do Next
If you’re planning a visit, check the MGM Rewards app first. Since it’s an MGM property, you can use your points there just like you would at the Bellagio. Also, if you’re going for the racing, check the "post times" online before you leave. They change based on the season, and there’s nothing worse than showing up for a race that happened three hours ago.
Lastly, keep an eye on the news. Even though MGM pulled out of the license race for now, the city of Yonkers and Mayor Mike Spano are still pushing hard for full casino status. Things change fast in New York politics, and that "aging slot parlor" label might not stick forever.
Next Steps for You:
- Check the Live Racing Calendar: Confirm the post times on the official Empire City website, as they vary by day.
- Link Your Rewards: If you have an MGM Rewards account from Vegas or AC, make sure it's active so you earn tier credits on your play.
- Set a Budget: The VLTs here move fast. Decide what you're willing to lose before you walk through the doors.
