Discover top-notch entertainment and live music, a variety of dining options, live horse racing, nonstop casino action, and a comfortable hotel accommodations.
2026 LIVE HORSE RACING SEASON AT PRAIRIE MEADOWS
NOW – SEPTEMBER 26, 2026
The live racing season has kicked off at Prairie Meadows with excitement in each race through September 26, 2026. Friday and Saturday races have a post time of 6pm, and Sunday and Monday races at 4pm. Experience the excitement as majestic Thoroughbreds race around the one-mile track. Watch and wager trackside or at the indoor viewing area on Level 4. Enjoy trackside entertainment, a variety of food options, free admission, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere during the races on the Track Apron and on Level 4. See the full details here!
TRIPLE CROWN RACE DAYS*
June 6 ● Belmont Stakes ● Prairie Meadows Post Time ● 5pm
UPCOMING SPECIAL RACE DAYS & EVENTS*
July 3 • Post Time 4pm • Fireworks at Dusk
July 4 • Independence Day • Post Time 4pm
July 10 & 11 • Festival of Racing • Post Time 6pm
August 14 & 15 • Regional Challenge • Post Time 6pm
September 7 • Labor Day • Post Time 4pm
September 25 • Quarter Horse Championships • Post Time 6pm
September 26 • Iowa Classic • Post Time 4pm
*Post times are tentative and subject to change. See Racing Center on Level 4 for details.
AJ’S STEAKHOUSE – A MEMORABLE DINING EXPERIENCE WHERE TRADITIONS ARE MADE
- Midweek Early Bird Specials Wednesday & Thursdays ● 4pm – 6pm
AJ’s Steakhouse has a midweek feature you won’t want to miss! Dine at AJ’s Steakhouse Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4pm to 6pm and try one of their delicious Early Bird featured dinners! Choose from a selection of AJ’s favorites and enjoy a special savings on delicious Early Bird menu items including select salads, steaks and seafood dishes. Reservations are recommended! - Thursday $29 Mix & Match To-Go Special
Bring home AJ’s Steakhouse with their Thursday takeout special. Enjoy their Mix & Match Dinner for Two for just $29. Choose two (select) entrees, served with AJ’s house salad for two and dinner rolls. Available for takeout only on Thursdays from 4pm to 9pm. Check out their menu online and call 515-957-3535 to place your order today. Not valid for dine-in. - Father’s Day Dining ● Sunday, June 21 ● 4pm – 9pm
Celebrate Father’s Day with a perfectly prepared meal at AJ’s Steakhouse. Indulge in an AJ’s favorite or try the mouthwatering AJ’s Father’s Day special feature. Be sure to treat Dad to one of AJ’s homemade desserts! Reservations are recommended.
AJ’s Steakhouse is open Wednesdays, Thursdays & Sundays 4pm-9pm and Fridays & Saturdays 4pm-10pm. Call 515.957.3535 to make your reservations or book online.
CAFÉ AT THE MEADOWS WEEKDAY $13 LUNCH SPECIAL
Dine at Cafe at the Meadows for delicious lunch specials! For only $13, Monday through Friday from 11am to 2pm, try their Early Bird Burger, Patty Melt, Twin Chili Cheese Dogs, or Twin Chicago-style Hot Dogs for a delicious lunch and excellent value! To learn about the specials and more, please visit their website.
The Café at the Meadows is open Sunday – Tuesday, 7am – 8pm, Wednesday and Thursday, 7am – 2pm, and Friday and Saturday, 7am – 9pm.
2026 FINISH LINE SHOW LOUNGE ENTERTAINMENT AND TRIBUTE ACTS
Prairie Meadows stands out as a premier entertainment hub in central Iowa. The Finish Line Show Lounge comes alive every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday with a dynamic mix of performances ranging from local artists to well-known national tribute bands. Whatever your musical taste, you’ll find something that hits the right note. View the full 2026 entertainment schedule.
SAVE THE DATES: POWER-PACKED TRIBUTE SHOWS AT YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO PLAY!
- The Beatles Tribute: Paperback Writer – The Beatles Experience
Thursday, June 25, 2026 ● 7PM
Tickets On Sale Now - Dolly Parton Tribute: Karen Hester as Dolly Parton
Thursday, July 9, 2026 ● 7PM
Tickets On Sale Now - Johnny Cash Tribute: Church of Cash
Thursday, September 10, 2026 ● 7PM
Tickets On Sale Friday, July 3 - Queen Tribute: Queen Flash – The Ultimate Queen Tribute
Saturday, October 10, 2026 ● 7PM
Tickets On Sale Friday, August 7 - The Supremes Tribute: Supreme Girls of Motown
Saturday, November 14, 2026 ● 7PM
Tickets On Sale Friday, September 4
All shows are 21+ and held in the Finish Line Show Lounge. Tickets will be on sale through MIDWESTIX, and in the Prairie Meadows Gift Shop, while supplies last.
PRAIRIE MEADOWS GIFT SHOP
Enjoy shopping for stylish items at the Prairie Meadows Gift Shop, where a curated mix of everyday must-haves and elevated finds comes together in one easy stop. Browse a vibrant selection of apparel, Hobo leather handbags, sunglasses from Oakley and Ray-Ban, and a variety of designer fragrances.
Don’t miss the Iowa Vendor Spotlight featuring Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce, showcasing locally made favorites you can take home. You’ll also discover unique stationery, seasonal décor, stylish jewelry, Black Clover hats, snacks, and more.
Located by the main casino entrance, the Prairie Meadows Gift Shop is the perfect place to find something new this summer. Prairie Meadows Gift Shop is open Sunday – Thursday, 11am – 8pm, and Friday – Saturday, 11am – 10pm.
PRAIRIE MEADOWS HOTEL
Make the most of summer with a getaway at Prairie Meadows Hotel, where comfort meets excitement in one destination. Unwind in thoughtfully designed guest rooms that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Just steps away, the casino delivers nonstop action with a wide variety of slot machines, table games, exciting promotions, and more!
Treat yourself to great dining, live music, and vibrant entertainment throughout your stay. Whether you’re planning a weekend retreat, a business trip, or a spontaneous escape, Prairie Meadows Hotel delivers an enjoyable experience with something for everyone. Book your reservations today!
STARS & STRIPES JULY 3RD WEEKEND
Looking for the best fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day? Prairie Meadows will host their annual celebration with their Stars & Stripes July 3rd Weekend. Enjoy family-friendly festivities and fun featuring live racing, outdoor music, trackside entertainment, delicious food, and the most spectacular fireworks display in central Iowa on Friday, July 3, at dusk! Visit their website to stay up to date with all the details and full line up of events at Your Favorite Place To Play!
