Laurel Park is expected to host the 2026 Preakness Stakes, and then permanently close for racing once renovations at Pimlico have been completed.

[5] In 1914, New York businessmen and prominent horsemen, Philip J. Dwyer and James Butler purchased the track and appointed Matt Winn as the general manager.

[8] Laurel remodeled its clubhouse and grandstand to accommodate winter racing in 1966, enclosing the track's seating area with 30,000 square feet of half-inch-thick glass.

[9] When Laurel was awarded the summer racing dates in 1982, the track installed an air conditioning system in the grandstand and clubhouse.

Laurel entered a new era in December 1984, when governor Harry Hughes's selection for Economic Development secretary Frank J.

In addition, Laurel Park, as part of a $16 million multi-year renovation plan, opened four premier Clubhouse areas: "Tycoons," an upscale cigar and brandy bar with an excellent television presentation of racing and other sporting events; "Sunny Jim's," a simulcast theater with individual carrels, and food & beverage service; "Clocker's Corner," a casual simulcast theater and cafe in a convenient track-side location and the "Kelso Club," a premier accommodation for VIP customers with concierge service.

After Magna's bankruptcy in 2009, Penn National Gaming and MI Developments began a joint ownership of the Maryland Jockey Club in 2010 for operation of Laurel Park.

[14] In May 2011, Frank Stronach gave up leadership of MI Development in exchange for Magna's former gaming assets, giving him control over Laurel Park.

[15] In 2013, following a failed attempt to introduce slot machine gambling, Laurel Park owners Stronach Group announced plans to use the Maryland Racetrack Facility Redevelopment Account to fund year-round racing, facility improvements and a tunnel under the adjacent B&O railroad tracks, connecting to a 1000-unit transit-oriented development called Laurel Park Station on the Howard County portion of the Racetrack property.

[17] In October 2019, as part of an agreement between The Stronach Group and the city of Baltimore to keep the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course, plans were announced for Laurel Park to undergo facility upgrades.

[20] In January 2024, it was announced that major renovations would take place at Pimlico Race Course, resulting in one or two runnings of the Preakness Stakes moving to Laurel.