Why the Equestrian Park:
Expanding on the ‘Racino’ model currently found throughout the country, Canterbury Park has broadened its entertainment destination vision to include a world-class horse show and event center. Minnesota is home to one of the largest horse populations in the country, but currently lacks a major show venue. Today, many of Minnesota’s horsemen leave the state to show at venues around the country, taking with them a huge economic impact.

Equestrian Park Details:
Specifically, if Racino legislation passes, Canterbury Park would privately finance show facilities that include two climate-controlled indoor arenas (175’ x 300’ and 140’ x 300’) as well as indoor and outdoor warm up arena. Additionally, the plan calls for the construction of 3 outdoor arenas (125’ x 275’) and one working Western arena, as well as a short cross country course on the racetrack infield. Four-hundred new horse stalls would be constructed and earmarked for show horse events, which, combined with the existing 1,600 stalls, would accommodate local, regional and national events.

Economic Impact of the Equestrian Facility:
Exact details of the show facility’s economic impact are not yet known, but by looking at other arenas we know the effect would be substantial. Equestrian event centers are typically built by municipalities due to the major tourism impact they have. For instance, a fiscal impact study found the Scottsdale, Arizona’s city-owned WestWorld Equestrian and Special Event Facility created total direct spending of just under $25 million during the fiscal year 2000-2001. The facility at Canterbury Park would be privately financed, yet the region would still capture the tourism benefits.