Explore Aiken’s Triple Crown 2025! Get event dates, ticket info, history, and local tips for the Aiken Trials, Steeplechase, and Pacers & Polo.
Updated for 2025 – Planning to attend Aiken’s Triple Crown? This three-week equestrian event in Aiken, South Carolina, is a must-see for horse racing fans. From high-speed steeplechase races to elite polo matches, the Triple Crown series is one of the most prestigious events in the Southeast.
In this guide, you’ll find event details, ticket info, where to stay, what to do in Aiken, and exclusive real estate insights.
Table of Contents
- What is Aiken’s Triple Crown?
- Aiken Triple Crown 2025 Schedule
- History & Significance of Aiken’s Triple Crown
- Best Places to Stay in Aiken
- Top Restaurants in Aiken
- How to Get Tickets
- Plan Your Move to Aiken – Real Estate Insights
What is Aiken’s Triple Crown?
Aiken’s Triple Crown is a three-week equestrian festival featuring different types of horse competitions. It includes:
• Aiken Trials – A thoroughbred horse race showcasing future champions.
• Aiken Spring Steeplechase – A steeplechase race with jumps and obstacles.
• Pacers & Polo – A professional polo match attracting elite players.
Aiken is one of the top horse training destinations in the U.S., making this event series a major attraction for the equestrian world.
Aiken Triple Crown 2025 Schedule
Aiken Trials 2025
📅 Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
📍 Location: Aiken Training Track
🎟️ Tickets: Visit Official Website
The Aiken Trials mark the beginning of the Triple Crown, featuring young thoroughbreds in their debut races.
🔹 Fun Facts:
• Founded in 1942, it’s one of Aiken’s oldest sporting traditions.
• Many Kentucky Derby contenders have trained in Aiken.
Aiken Spring Steeplechase 2025
📅 Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
📍 Location: Aiken Steeplechase Association’s Track
🎟️ Tickets: Official Website
A high-energy jump racing event, the Aiken Spring Steeplechase features elite jockeys and horses competing over obstacles at high speeds.
🔹 Why Attend?
• Elite competition – Some of the best jockeys and horses in the U.S.
• Luxury tailgating – Aiken’s most prestigious social event.
Pacers & Polo 2025
📅 Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
📍 Location: Powderhouse Polo Field
🎟️ Tickets: Pacers & Polo Website
Polo, known as the "sport of kings," is a highlight of Aiken’s horse culture.
🔹 Did You Know?
• Aiken has more than 60 polo fields, making it one of the largest polo hubs in the U.S.
History & Significance of Aiken’s Triple Crown
Aiken’s horse industry is worth over $100 million annually, attracting some of the world’s top equestrians. Events like the Triple Crown have cemented its status as a leading equestrian destination.
Best Places to Stay in Aiken
Whether you're visiting for Aiken’s Triple Crown 2025 or just exploring this charming equestrian town, these top-rated hotels and inns will provide the perfect stay.
The Willcox – Historic Luxury Hotel
• Location: 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
• Price Range: $$$$
Why Stay Here?
• A AAA Four Diamond Award-winning hotel with elegant suites and a world-class spa.
• Gourmet restaurant & bar featuring locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails.
• Rich history—frequented by celebrities and equestrian elite.
Perfect for: A luxurious, high-end experience in Aiken’s most famous hotel.
Carriage House Inn – Charming Boutique Inn
• Location: 139 Laurens St NW, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
• Price Range: $$$
Why Stay Here?
• A cozy, Southern-style inn in the heart of Downtown Aiken.
• Offers complimentary breakfast and beautiful courtyard gardens.
• Walking distance to top restaurants, boutique shops, and historic sites.
Perfect for: Visitors looking for a quaint, charming stay in the downtown district.
The Inn at Houndslake – 🏌️♂️ Golf & Equestrian Retreat
• Location: 897 Houndslake Dr, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
• Price Range: $$
Why Stay Here?
• Overlooks the Houndslake Country Club Golf Course—perfect for golf lovers!
• Located in a quiet, upscale residential area with a peaceful setting.
• Close to equestrian training centers and polo fields.
Perfect for: Golfers, horse trainers, and visitors who enjoy a relaxing, scenic atmosphere.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Best Modern Hotel Option
• Location: 185 Colony Pkwy, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
• Price Range: $$
Why Stay Here?
• Newly renovated rooms with modern amenities.
• Offers free breakfast, fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
• Close to USCA Convocation Center and major shopping areas.
Perfect for: Business travelers or families looking for a comfortable, affordable stay.
Rose Hill Estate – Historic Bed & Breakfast
• Location: 221 Greenville St NW, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9/5)
• Price Range: $$$
Why Stay Here?
• A stunning 1898 mansion turned into an elegant bed & breakfast.
• Features beautiful gardens, afternoon tea, and live music events.
• A true Southern hospitality experience with charming antique décor.
Perfect for: Couples, history lovers, and anyone looking for a romantic, peaceful getaway.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott – Extended Stay Option
• Location: 1008 Monterey Dr, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
• Price Range: $$
Why Stay Here?
• Spacious suites with full kitchens—ideal for long-term stays.
• Pet-friendly hotel with a fitness center and outdoor BBQ area.
• Close to Aiken Regional Medical Center & USC Aiken.
Perfect for: Travelers staying for a week or longer who need more space and amenities.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Budget-Friendly & Convenient
• Location: 2897 Whiskey Rd, Aiken, SC
• Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5)
• Price Range: $
Why Stay Here?
• Affordable & reliable with free breakfast & WiFi.
• Located near Whiskey Road shopping centers and restaurants.
• Offers an outdoor pool, gym, and business center.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers who want a clean, comfortable stay near shopping & dining.
Pro Tips for Booking a Stay in Aiken During Triple Crown Season
✅ Book Early! Hotels and inns fill up fast in March due to the Triple Crown events. Reservations 3-6 months in advance are recommended.
✅ Stay in Downtown Aiken if you want easy access to restaurants, bars, and event venues.
✅ Golfers & horse enthusiasts may prefer Houndslake Inn or Rose Hill Estate for a more exclusive retreat.
Top Restaurants in Aiken
• Malia’s – A fine dining staple in Aiken, known for its seasonal menu and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
📍 Location: 120 Laurens St SW, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Filet Medallions with Red Wine Demi-Glace – A signature dish with a perfectly seared filet and a rich, flavorful sauce.
• Casa Bella – One of the most romantic Italian restaurants in Aiken, offering classic dishes and an extensive wine list in a historic house.
📍 Location: 120 Chesterfield St S, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Lobster Ravioli – A local favorite, featuring handmade pasta, fresh lobster, and a creamy tomato sauce.
• Prime Steakhouse – A top-tier steakhouse with premium cuts, famous for its perfectly grilled steaks and handcrafted cocktails.
📍 Location: 316 Richland Ave W, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Dry-Aged Ribeye – A perfectly aged prime steak, grilled to perfection and served with house-made steak butter.
• The Feed Sack – A hidden gem serving Southern comfort food with a modern twist, featuring favorites like shrimp & grits and homemade desserts.
📍 Location: 159 Morgan St NW, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Shrimp & Grits – Made with fresh local shrimp, creamy stone-ground grits, and Cajun-style sauce.
• Whiskey Alley – A buzzy, upscale bar with an incredible whiskey selection, delicious small plates, and a fantastic late-night vibe.
📍 Location: 227 The Alley SW, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Duck Fat Fries & Truffle Aioli – Crispy, golden fries cooked in duck fat, topped with Parmesan and served with truffle aioli.
• The Willcox Restaurant – Located inside The Wilcox Hotel, this elegant dining spot is perfect for a luxurious brunch or gourmet dinner.
📍 Location: 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC
⭐ Must-Try Dish: Sunday Brunch Crab Cake Benedict – Fresh lump crab cakes, poached eggs, and house-made hollandaise sauce on an English muffin.
Pro Tip: Many of these spots fill up fast during Triple Crown season, so reservations are recommended!
How to Get Tickets
Tickets are available online and at the event venues. Prices range from $20 to VIP packages.
Plan Your Move to Aiken – Real Estate Insights
Aiken isn’t just for equestrian enthusiasts—it’s one of the best places to live in South Carolina. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning an equestrian estate or luxury home, now is the perfect time to explore the real estate market.
As the first AI-certified real estate agent in the CSRA, I specialize in:
✅ Equestrian properties – Farms, ranches, and horse-friendly estates.
✅ Luxury homes – Gated communities, golf course properties, and historic homes.
Ready to find your dream home in Aiken? Contact me today for exclusive listings!
📞 Call Me: +1 (803)-278-1800
📧 Email: lindalimehouse1@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: firstaiagent.com
📱 Facebook: Linda Limehouse Not Just Any House
📱 Instagram: lindalimehouserealtor
Final Thoughts
Aiken’s Triple Crown is a must-see for horse lovers and newcomers alike. Whether you’re coming for the thrill of the races, the social scene, or considering a move to Aiken, this event is the perfect way to experience the city’s equestrian charm.
Don’t miss out on Aiken’s Triple Crown 2025! Book your tickets early and start planning your trip.
🔗 Share this guide with fellow horse enthusiasts!
