Colombo Racecourse: Where Heritage Meets Modern Leisure

From 19th-Century Horse Racing to Today’s Lifestyle Hub

Once a colonial-era horse racing track, the Colombo Racecourse in Cinnamon Gardens has been transformed into Colombo’s most stylish shopping, dining, and green space destination.

Why Locals & Tourists Flock Here

A Perfect Blend of Old & New

• Original grandstand preserved as a heritage structure.
• 400m running track where racehorses once sprinted.
• Lush lawns perfect for picnics.

Unique Features

• First LED-lit outdoor shopping complex in Sri Lanka.
• Monthly artisan markets with live music.
• Free public WiFi throughout.

Top Experiences

1. Shopping with a Twist

• Designer boutiques: Sarongs by Darshi Keerthisena.
• Ceylon Tea Trails: Rare single-estate teas.
• Spa Ceylon: Luxury Ayurvedic products.

2. Dining & Drinks

• The Governors’ Cup: Cocktails in the former jockeys’ lounge.
• Ministry of Crab Express: Quick-service seafood.
• Bakehouse by Radhika: Artisanal pastries.

3. Family Activities

• Weekend pony rides for kids.
• Outdoor yoga on the infield (Sundays 7 AM).

4. Nighttime Magic

• Fairy light installations in the trees.
• Full moon film screenings.

Visitor Tips

• Hours: 10 AM–10 PM (Restaurants until midnight).
• Parking: Underground lot (First 2 hours free).
• Pet-friendly: Leashed dogs welcome.
• Best Day: Saturday for the farmers’ market.

Nearby Attractions

• Viharamahadevi Park (5-min walk).
• National Museum (10-min walk).
• Arcade Independence Square (15-min walk).

Local Insights

• Hidden History: Look for the original winning post near the pavilion.
• Photo Op: Sunset shots of the grandstand with Colombo skyline.

Book a Colombo Lifestyle Tour!

Explore this + other urban transformations at srilankatourhelp.org.

Pro Tip: Try the "Pimm’s Cup" at Governors’ – a colonial-era racing tradition!

SEO Keywords

• Colombo Racecourse shopping
• Cinnamon Gardens attractions
• Sri Lanka heritage sites
• Outdoor dining Colombo
• Things to do Colombo weekend