Where to stay for this year's Atlanta Steeplechase

 Halfway between Cartersville and Rome, Georgia, is one of the biggest horse racing events of the season: the Atlanta Steeplechase. The 52nd Atlanta Steeplechase happens Saturday, April 22, at Kingston Downs.

The gates open at 9 a.m. The first race is 1:30 p.m., and the last race ends at about 5 p.m. The proceeds go to Bert's Big Adventure, a 505(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World®for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families.

If horse racing is not your thing, there are a number of other activities for people to enjoy: shopping, dog races and tailgating to name a few. There is also a hat contest for folks willing to get a bit dressed up for the occasion! Categories include "Most Beautiful Lady's Hat," "Most Whimsical Lady's Hat," and "Best Children's Hat."

The Atlanta Steeplechase has been held at Kingston Downs since 1993. However, it originated in 1966 at Horseshoe Bend on the Chattahoochee River. Tickets for the event can be purchased by calling 1-404-237-7436.

However, race fans, you'll also need a place to stay this weekend, and we know just the spot: the Sleep Inn & MainStay Suiteslocated in Cartersville along Interstate 75 (Exit 283), just a few minutes from Kingston Downs. In addition to our indoor pool, fitness center and being pet friendly, our hotel has a daily, complimentary hot breakfast.

Call us at 1-770-607-3005 to book your room today! We're right next to Love's 359, along Old Allatoona Road SE.

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Image from Atlanta Steeplechase is courtesy of Jack Kennard. Click here for his Flickr page.