The Ultimate Guide To The Tri-State Dog Track: History, Evolution, And Modern Gaming
The Tri-State Dog Track, historically known as the Tri-State Greyhound Park and currently operating as the Mardi Gras Casino & Resort, stands as a landmark institution in the landscape of American racing and regional entertainment. Situated in Cross Lanes, West Virginia, just a short drive from the state capital of Charleston, this venue has served as a hub of economic activity, sporting excitement, and controversy for nearly four decades. Since opening its doors in the mid-1985, the track has mirrored the broader national trends of the gaming industry, transitioning from a pure greyhound racing facility into a multi-faceted casino and resort destination.
Understanding the legacy of the Tri-State Dog Track requires looking beyond the thrill of the chase. For decades, local residents and tourists from neighboring Ohio and Kentucky flocked to the track to wager on some of the fastest canine athletes in the world. The facility became an integral part of the local community, providing hundreds of jobs and generating significant tax revenue for the state of West Virginia. As consumer preferences evolved and the legal landscape surrounding sports betting and casino gaming shifted, the venue underwent a dramatic transformation to stay relevant in a highly competitive market.
Today, while the echoes of cheering crowds at the track fence still linger, the venue offers a starkly different experience than it did in the 1980s. The transition to Mardi Gras Casino & Resort brought Las Vegas-style gaming, fine dining, luxury accommodations, and live entertainment to the Kanawha Valley. This comprehensive guide explores the rich history of the Tri-State Dog Track, its physical and operational evolution, the current state of greyhound racing in West Virginia, and what visitors can expect when visiting this historic venue today.
The Rich History of Tri-State Greyhound Park
When the Tri-State Greyhound Park officially opened in 1985, it was greeted with immense enthusiasm by the local population and regional racing enthusiasts. Built to accommodate thousands of spectators, the facility featured a state-of-the-art dirt track, an expansive grandstand, and clubhouse dining options that allowed patrons to watch the races in comfort. During its early years, the track was a premier destination on the East Coast greyhound circuit, attracting top-tier breeders, trainers, and kennels from across the United States.
The daily operations of the track during its peak were a marvel of logistical coordination. Hundreds of greyhounds were housed in specialized kennel compounds nearby, requiring round-the-clock care, precise dietary regimens, and regular veterinary checkups. Race days featured packed schedules, with post times running throughout the afternoon and evening. Wagering on the races was the primary economic engine of the facility, with pari-mutuel betting pools reaching millions of dollars annually, a portion of which was funneled directly back into state public services and local infrastructure projects.
However, the golden era of greyhound racing was eventually challenged by shifting public attitudes toward animal welfare and the legalization of alternative forms of gambling. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, attendance at dog tracks nationwide began to dwindle. In response, the operators of Tri-State Greyhound Park successfully lobbied the West Virginia legislature to permit video lottery terminals (VLTs) and, later, table games. This legislative shift marked the beginning of the venue's evolution from a traditional racetrack into a modern "racino."
From Dog Racing to Mardi Gras Casino & Resort
The integration of slot machines and table games completely revitalized the financial health of the Tri-State facility. In 2008, the venue underwent a massive $50 million renovation and rebranding effort, officially emerging as the Mardi Gras Casino & Resort. The French Quarter-themed destination introduced a sprawling gaming floor featuring over 1,000 slot machines, a dedicated poker room, and classic table games such as blackjack, craps, and roulette. This shift allowed the venue to diversify its demographic appeal, attracting younger patrons who favored interactive casino games over traditional pari-mutuel racing.
Despite the heavy emphasis on casino gaming, live greyhound racing remained a legally mandated component of the facility's license for many years. Under West Virginia law, casinos were required to maintain active racing programs to qualify for video lottery and table game licenses. This created a unique operational dynamic where the highly profitable casino floor essentially subsidized the declining racing operations. Proponents of the racing industry argued that this arrangement preserved vital agricultural and breeding jobs within the state, while critics argued it prolonged an outdated and inhumane sport.
In recent years, the debate surrounding the continuation of greyhound racing at the venue has intensified. While Florida and several other states enacted sweeping bans on dog racing, West Virginia remained one of the final two U.S. states—alongside Iowa—to host active greyhound tracks. The operational landscape shifted further in 2018 when Delaware North, a global hospitality and gaming company, acquired Mardi Gras Casino & Resort, bringing professional corporate management and further modernization to the historic property.
TRACK | Tri State Athletics
Comparing the Past and Present of the Tri-State Venue
To understand how much the facility has changed since its inception in 1985, it is helpful to compare the core features of the original Tri-State Dog Track with the modern-day Mardi Gras Casino & Resort.
| Feature | Original Tri-State Dog Track (1985) | Modern Mardi Gras Casino & Resort (Present) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Live Greyhound Racing & Pari-Mutuel Wagering | Casino Gaming, Sports Betting, Resort Amenities |
| Gaming Options | On-track and simulcast dog race betting | 1,000+ Slots, Table Games, Poker, Sportsbook |
| Accommodations | None (Local motels only) | Luxury Hotel with 150+ rooms and suites |
| Dining Facilities | Basic grandstand concession stands & clubhouse dining | Multiple restaurants, including French Quarter Bistro and Cafe |
| Entertainment | Live racing events and seasonal festivals | Live music, comedy shows, casino promotions |
| Ownership | Local investment groups and private operators | Delaware North (Global hospitality conglomerate) |
Greyhound Welfare and the Adoption Movement in West Virginia
The legacy of the Tri-State Dog Track is deeply intertwined with the evolution of greyhound welfare practices and the canine adoption movement. As public awareness regarding the post-racing lives of greyhounds grew, the racing industry faced intense scrutiny. In response, the track operators, in conjunction with the West Virginia Greyhound Owners and Breeders Association, established structured adoption programs to ensure that retired racing dogs transitioned safely into life as household pets.
Greyhounds are highly regarded for their gentle temperament, quiet demeanor, and adaptability to indoor living despite their athletic backgrounds. Local adoption groups, such as those affiliated with the national Greyhound Pets of America network, have worked tirelessly to rehome retired athletes from the Cross Lanes track. These organizations conduct thorough vetting, behavioral assessments, and matching processes to place retired racers with families across West Virginia and surrounding states.
Retired Greyhound Adoption Process: 1. Online Application Submission -> 2. Home Visit & Safety Check -> 3. Match with Retired Racer -> 4. Final Adoption & Veterinary Care
The transition of retired racers has become a major point of pride for the local community. While the track has faced ongoing pressure from animal rights organizations advocating for a complete end to racing, the local adoption infrastructure has proven highly effective. Thousands of former racing dogs have successfully transitioned from the high-speed oval of Tri-State to comfortable couches across North America, showcasing the resilience and loving nature of the breed.
Planning Your Visit: Location, Amenities, and Entertainment
For those looking to experience the modern iteration of the historic Tri-State Dog Track, the Mardi Gras Casino & Resort offers a premier entertainment experience. Located at 1 Grey Avenue, Cross Lanes, WV 25313, the resort is easily accessible via Interstate 64, making it a convenient destination for travelers originating from Charleston, Huntington, or out-of-state metro areas like Columbus, Ohio, and Lexington, Kentucky.
The resort features a luxury hotel with over 150 well-appointed rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and flexible meeting spaces for corporate events and weddings. Dining options cater to a wide range of tastes, from quick-service options on the casino floor to upscale dining experiences featuring regional American cuisine and Creole-inspired dishes that pay homage to the resort's Mardi Gras theme.
Key Amenities at Mardi Gras Casino & Resort: - Over 25,000 square feet of casino gaming space - State-of-the-art sports betting kiosk and lounge - Live entertainment schedule featuring regional bands and national acts - Proximity to local outdoor attractions like the Kanawha State Forest
Pros and Cons of the Modern Racino Experience
As the Tri-State venue has transitioned from a dedicated dog track to a comprehensive casino resort, it has generated mixed opinions among gaming enthusiasts, local historians, and community members.
Pros
- Diversified Entertainment: Visitors have access to a massive variety of gaming, dining, and lodging options all under one roof, creating a true resort destination.
- Economic Stability: The transition to casino gaming saved the facility from closure, securing hundreds of local jobs and contributing millions in tax revenue to the state.
- Modern Amenities: The addition of a high-quality hotel, fine dining, and a modern sportsbook has elevated the venue's appeal to regional travelers.
Cons
- Loss of Traditional Racing Culture: Purists who enjoyed the specific community and strategy of live trackside dog racing find the modern casino focus less appealing.
- Ethical Concerns: Despite welfare improvements, the continuation of greyhound racing remains a polarizing ethical issue for a segment of the public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is live greyhound racing still active at the Tri-State track?
As of recent regulatory updates, greyhound racing has faced continuous legislative debates in West Virginia. While the casino has transitioned its primary focus to slot machines, table games, and sportsbooks, you should check the official Mardi Gras Casino & Resort website or the West Virginia Racing Commission for the most up-to-date schedule regarding active racing seasons or simulcast options.
What is the address of the former Tri-State Dog Track?
The facility is located at 1 Grey Avenue, Cross Lanes, WV 25313. It is situated just off Interstate 64, approximately 14 miles west of downtown Charleston, West Virginia.
How can I adopt a retired greyhound from the track?
You can adopt a retired racer through reputable regional adoption organizations such as Greyhound Pets of America or local West Virginia rescue groups. These organizations facilitate the adoption process, matching retired dogs with suitable families.
What gaming options are available at Mardi Gras Casino & Resort today?
The modern venue features over 1,000 slot machines, a variety of classic table games (including blackjack, craps, roulette, and Mississippi Stud), a dedicated poker room, and a state-of-the-art retail sportsbook for wagering on professional and collegiate sports.
Do you have to be 21 to visit the facility?
Yes, guests must be 21 years of age or older to enter the casino gaming floor, participate in sports betting, or wager on races. However, certain areas of the resort, such as the hotel and specific dining venues, may be accessible to younger guests under adult supervision.
Experience the Legacy of West Virginia Gaming
Whether you are a gaming enthusiast looking to experience the energy of a modern casino floor, a history buff interested in the golden age of American greyhound racing, or a traveler looking for a comfortable weekend getaway in the Kanawha Valley, Mardi Gras Casino & Resort delivers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today to enjoy world-class gaming, exceptional dining, and a unique piece of West Virginia's rich entertainment heritage.
