Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino is located in Altoona, Iowa, just east of Des Moines. It is at exit 142 off I-80.

In my frequent trips across Iowa to visit family this is usually the place we stop to stretch our legs for awhile. I have been here more than a few times.

The facility is a land-based casino with most of the gaming on the second floor.

In addition to the casino they offer live thoroughbred racing.

There is plenty of parking for just about any vehicle.

When you first enter the building be sure to stop to the right and get a player’s card. From there you will take an escalator or elevator to the second floor casino. To the left is all of the table games and some slots. To the right is nothing but slots. Straight ahead is more slots and entrance to the horse racing area. The non-smoking slot area is here also.

They have a pretty good selection of table games and you can usually find a table with an opening. The area is nice and open to get around very easily.

Prairie Meadows also offers a smoke-free poker room on the Clubhouse level that is worth checking out.

The have a good selection of slots spread throughout. Your favorite machines may be spread out around the casino so don’t give up looking. Just wander your way through each area and you will probably find what you want.

I like the fact that the horse track viewing and betting is right there with the casino. You could literally place a bet, then pull a few slots while you are waiting for the race to start.

The casino and area is clean and well kept and presents a nice welcome atmosphere for playing.

I have not had great luck here but will continue to stretch my legs here a few more times to see if things change. It only takes one right?

They have a 168 room hotel attached to the casino for those making this an overnight destination. I can’t speak for the hotel because I have never stayed.

They also have a good selection of dining options with a steakhouse, buffet, and cafe, as well as snack bar.

If you have never stopped in at Prairie Meadows, it is definitely worth the stop either as a destination or as a stop to stretch the legs.

Don’t forget about Adventureland Amusement Park right next door.

See the Prairie Meadows Casino detail page.