Presque Isle Downs & Casino sits in Summit Township just outside Erie, in the far north-western corner of Pennsylvania. It rates 3.8 from more than 7,200 Google reviewers.
It is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Inc. — the company behind the Kentucky Derby — which is unusual for a regional Pennsylvania property and shows in how seriously the racing is taken.
What's on the floor
More than 1,500 slot and video poker machines across a range of denominations, plus a full live table pit.
The table list is broad for a property this size: blackjack, craps and roulette alongside 3-Card Progressive, Let It Ride, Mississippi Stud and Texas Hold'em. There is a High Limit Room carrying both slots and tables with limits from $5 to $100 — a genuinely wide band that makes the room usable at either end.
For players in Erie, this is the only casino within a considerable drive, and it does not behave like a monopoly floor: the game spread is better than it needs to be.
The racing
A one-mile thoroughbred racetrack runs live cards May through September, with simulcasting every day of the week from thoroughbred and harness tracks across the United States and Canada.
A one-mile course is a proper racing surface rather than the tight ovals some regional racinos operate, and the Churchill Downs ownership means the meet is run to a standard.
Dining
Six outlets, and the one to know is Churchill's Bourbon & Brew Bar & Grille — on the second floor overlooking the mile-long track, with thirty beers on tap and a large bourbon list. On a race afternoon it is the best seat on the property.
LBV Steakhouse is the top of the range, with the Backstretch Buffet, The INCafe, The HUB Bar and the 90 Trackside Bar filling out the rest.
Tips before you go
You must be 21 to gamble, the minimum age at every Pennsylvania casino.
The casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year — no seasonal closures and no maintenance windows.
The racing is seasonal, May to September. If the track is the reason for the trip, do not plan a winter visit; Erie winters are severe and the meet is long finished.
There is no hotel on site, but Erie has plenty of accommodation nearby, and Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie is one of the better day trips in the region if you are making a weekend of it.
Nearby alternatives
South, Hollywood Casino at The Meadows near Washington pairs harness racing with 24 bowling lanes. Also south, Rivers Casino Pittsburgh has a 30-table poker room on the North Shore. South-east, The Casino at Nemacolin is the small resort option in the Laurel Highlands.
For the full picture, see all Pennsylvania in-person casinos.
FAQ
What are Presque Isle Downs's hours?
The casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Live racing runs May through September on its own calendar.
How old do you have to be to gamble at Presque Isle Downs?
You must be 21, the minimum age at every Pennsylvania casino.
What games are available at Presque Isle Downs?
More than 1,500 slot and video poker machines and live table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, 3-Card Progressive, Let It Ride, Mississippi Stud and Texas Hold'em, plus a High Limit Room with limits from $5 to $100.
When does racing run at Presque Isle Downs?
Live thoroughbred racing runs May through September on a one-mile track, with simulcast wagering available every day of the year.
Who owns Presque Isle Downs?
Churchill Downs Inc., the company behind the Kentucky Derby.
Does Presque Isle Downs have a hotel?
No. Erie has accommodation a short drive away, and Presque Isle State Park is nearby.
Rather play from your couch tonight? See our Pennsylvania sweepstakes rankings.
Updated August 2026 · Details verified against Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board records and the venue's official site. Hours and offerings change — confirm before you go.
