San Isidro Hippodrome: tradition and elegance 30 minutes from CABA

For many, the afternoon comes alive to the rhythm of champagne glasses and the murmur of those aiming their binoculars at the track; as just thirty minutes from the city's hustle and bustle, the San Isidro Racecourse makes you feel that time is measured at the speed of a thoroughbred. 

This venue, brimming with tradition and class, attracts the cream of society and local businesspeople, as well as high-profile visitors who appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the surroundings.

From the boxes in the main stand, the view is simply breathtaking, completely dominating one of the largest grass racecourses on the entire continent. Because of this, for me there's no better weekend plan, because horse racing is the pinnacle of refined leisure, elegance and adrenaline.

A Brief History of a Racing Giant in the North Zone

This story begins on 3rd December 1935, when the Buenos Aires Jockey Club inaugurated this monumental complex, marking an important milestone in the region. Its founders designed this track, replicating the European style of the best equestrian venues of that era. An ambitious idea that made this place a symbol of prestige. 

Its structure is made up of a main oval of natural grass, which is 2,783 metres long and 45 metres wide; and due to these dimensions, international riders consider this circuit to be one of the most demanding on the world tour.

But the story doesn't end there, as over the decades, the “Trinuna Oficial”, with its distinct rationalist style, has had the honour of hosting a wide diversity of foreign presidents, monarchs, and also great personalities from local industry, thus consolidating its lineage among society with an affinity for racing. 

In fact, every year in December, the track becomes the venue for the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini, which is one of the most important days in the racing calendar and a social event par excellence.

Without a doubt, that magic which characterises the San Isidro racecourse remains unchanged by the passage of time, meaning a stroll through its gardens, teeming with ancient trees and bronze statues commemorating legendary horses, will make you feel the true pulse of this turf classic.

San Isidro Racecourse: turf, architecture and Presidente Bar

opera San Isidro Racecourse it involves knowing the nooks and crannies that mark the difference between a casual visit and a memorable experience. At the heart of this exclusivity is the Official Stand, which offers us the best views of the main straight.

From the ringside boxes on the first floor or within its private lounges, races are enjoyed with a high level of comfort, in an atmosphere where the classic dress code (suit) is still respected and the personalised attention you receive takes care of every last detail.

Drinks, food and something else

Meanwhile, nights at the San Isidro took a turn with the opening of the President Bar San Isidro. Having established itself as one of the best bars in the world at its original Recoleta location, this concept has landed at the hippodrome to completely transform the nightlife scene in Zona Norte. 

Commanded by Seba García, who has been elected several times as one of the most influential bartenders on the international circuit, this bar offers a signature cocktail experience that pays homage to Argentine elegance.

Furthermore, within the establishment, the most discerning clients find refuge in “La Biblioteca” (The Library), an exclusive space that was part of the original premises and is designed for discreet meetings or simply for enjoying a quiet chat away from the main salon. 

The proposal is complemented by a select international-level sushi menu, gourmet tapas, and a wine cellar that brings together some of the most select and coveted labels from Mendoza wineries.

And if you’d prefer to extend your stay, there’s nothing better than a dish cooked over charcoal using the very finest cuts of meat. Just a few metres from the venue, you’ll find Kansas Grill & Bar. This restaurant is an undisputed classic thanks to its selected cuts of meat, its iconic American ribs and impeccable service, making it the ideal meeting point for business lunches or pre-dinner drinks before evening events at the racecourse.

Practical information for planning your visit to San Isidro Racecourse

• Main address: Av. Bernabé Márquez 504, with Av. Sir Alexander Fleming, San Isidro, Province of Buenos Aires.
• Google Maps
• Timetables The races are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday afternoons, while on Saturdays and Sundays the schedule extends well into the evening. The Presidente bar, meanwhile, opens its doors from Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 PM until the early hours of the morning.
• Car park The racecourse boasts ample parking and private security, ensuring swift access to the main stands and dining areas.
• Indicate prices: The cost is very affordable for the general stands. However, to book a table at the Presidente Bar, gain access to the VIP lounges or enjoy the Official Stand, a minimum spend or membership is required, which can range from $45,000 to $80,000 pesos per person, depending also on the choice of food and drinks.

Expert tips for enjoying the racecourse to the fullest

• Check the gala calendar: If you want to experience equestrianism at its most luxurious and traditional, mark your diaries for October and December. In October, the Jockey Club Grand Prix is held, and in December, the Grand Prix Carlos Pellegrini.
• Enjoy top-tier cocktails: On summer evenings, the tables on the terrace at the Presidente bar are highly sought-after for their unbeatable views of the dance floor. It is therefore essential to make a booking at least 48 or 72 hours in advance via their official channels.
• Dress code: A strict dress code of classic elegance is maintained in the Grandstand during Grand Prix days, requiring men to wear a jacket and tie. If you plan to enter the VIP lounges of the Jockey Club, it is best to avoid trainers or overly casual clothing to avoid any issues.

Frequently asked questions about turf in the North Zone

Is there a mandatory dress code for entry to the Official Stand?

To access the most exclusive areas of the venue, men must wear a tailored suit jacket, shirt, and trousers. Entry is not permitted in shorts, sandals, sports t-shirts of any kind, or casual urban footwear. 

Is it necessary to be a member of the Jockey Club to enter the San Isidro Racecourse?

It is not a mandatory requirement, as entry to the racecourse is open to the general public. However, it is worth clarifying that the Official Stand, some private lounges, and special boxes are exclusively reserved for club members and their guests.

How are pari-mutuel bets placed at a traditional racecourse?

VIP lounges have special windows where bets can be placed using electronic systems or prepaid vouchers, designed for high amounts. The entire process is handled with absolute discretion, and staff also provide personalised assistance to those who request it. Once the race stewards confirm the official result, payouts are settled immediately.

How do you specifically get into Presidente Bar within the premises?

The bar has a clearly marked entrance through the main entrance of the racecourse. For the peace of mind and comfort of its customers, it has its own security personnel and an adjacent car park.

On which days are the major horse racing prizes held in the Northern Zone?

International races are usually scheduled for Saturdays or public holidays during the official season, with the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini in mid-December being the highlight. Meanwhile, Wednesdays are reserved for regular horse races.

What exclusive services does the traditional racecourse offer foreign horse owners?

The San Isidro Racecourse boasts world-class sanitary and accommodation facilities within its equestrian village. Foreign trainers receive comprehensive logistical support, including fodder safety checks, access to secondary training tracks, and customs transport coordination. This is complemented by an emergency medical service available 24 hours a day.

Useful links

• The official website of the San Isidro Racecourse: https://hipodromosanisidro.com/
• Institutional Website of the Jockey Club of Buenos Aires: https://www.jockeyclub.org.ar/index.htm
• Link to the regulatory body Buenos Aires Province Lottery: https://loteria.gba.gob.ar/ 
• Official Tourist Guide of San Isidro: https://www.sanisidro.gob.ar/municipio/turismo
• Presidente Bar booking portal: https://www.presidentebar.com.ar/
• Kansas Grill & Bar Menu and Facilities https://www.kansasgrillandbar.com.ar/