You don’t have to be at Pimlico racetrack to enjoy this year’s horse race when so many bars and restaurants are offering Preakness specials. Whether you’re looking for an elegant affair or a casual hangout spot, there’s somewhere in Baltimore for you to celebrate.
The Mt. Washington Tavern is currently offering its own spin on a Black-Eyed Susan for this year’s Preakness and, while supplies last, you can even keep the commemorative glass. The first order is $10, with $7 refills on Tavern Susans. America’s Best Racing is hosting a free pre-Preakness party at the tavern on Wednesday, May 14, with a chance to meet the jockeys and win Preakness tickets. The party begins at 7 p.m., and the first 50 guests to RSVP via Yelp get a free drink ticket.
Stay caffeinated for the race with coffee from Chesapeake Bay Roasting Company. Based in Crofton, the company has been named the official coffee of the Preakness, and you can get a cup at multiple Preakness events. The CBRC van has also been driving all over Maryland, giving away tickets to the race. Keep up with their Preakness activities on Facebook.
Claddagh Pub and Mother’s Grille are both offering the same Preakness package—for $109, guests get an infield general admission ticket, transportation to and from the race, and access to the pregame brunch party at either location. Both brunches will be serving up $3 Bud Light drafts and $12 pitchers of mimosas and Bloody Marys. Tickets can be purchased online.
Mad River Bar & Grille is offering a Preakness package for $100 that includes a free breakfast buffet, transportation to Pimlico, and a ticket to the Infield Mug Club. The package also includes an open bar for the hour before and after Preakness. Reservations can be made by calling 410-727-2333.
If you love the dressing up for the race, you won’t want to miss the after-party. Baltimore chef Spike Gjerde is hosting a Preakness cookout, “The Winner’s Wind-Down,” in Belvedere Square at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 17. Flying Dog beer, whiskey, and Maryland cocktails will be served, along with coffee and dessert. Tickets are $100 for individuals or $300 for a group of four. The money will partially benefit the Oyster Recovery Partnership, which is devoted to helping return healthy oysters to the Chesapeake Bay. Preakness attire and hats are strongly encouraged. Tickets can be purchased online.