Gourmet, glamour and galloping: turn race day into a magical week away

Glitz, glamour and gourmet food – one event on Murray Bridge calendar has it all, and it’s the ideal day to launch a magical week away.

Racegoers revel in the excitement, atmosphere and VIP experience at the annual Magic Millions SA Raceday, held at the impressive new Gifford Hill racetrack and stunning Bridges Event Centre on March 9, 2024.

The thrill of the races, the glamour of the trackside fashions, and the delicious food and wine make for an unforgettable experience that’s made even more fun with friends.

It’s also a great excuse to head to the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong for a long, luxurious stay to discover the incredible experiences and indulgences the region has to offer.

Raceday the VIP way

To truly experience the best of Magic Millions Raceday, get a group together, slip into something fabulous and book into one of the VIP packages on offer.

Get a taste of the best the region has to offer with the Private Eye Package, which includes a delectable three-course lunch and premium beverage package starring local wines. You’ll have a bird’s eye view of the lush lawns of the track from your reserved seating in the Bridges Event Centre – a stunning, multi-million dollar complex that’s big on both comfort and style. For a more casual experience, the Pizza Precinct Package also offers all you can eat pizza, quality wines and beverages and reserved seating.

The race day is a highlight on the state’s racing calendar, with the Magic Millions 2YO Classic one of the top races in the leadup to Adelaide’s Yearling Sale – so it’s a unique chance to see racehorses at their best, while also enjoying a luxurious dining experience.

Make it magical

Once you’ve left the everyday behind and unwound at Magic Millions, extend the magic by staying on and experiencing the best the region has to offer.

Stay in style overlooking the Murray River from one of the stylish suites at the newly developed Bridgeport Hotel in Murray Bridge. Unwind with a sky-high swim or sip a delicious cocktail from the deck all while taking in the spectacular scenery (and, if you’re lucky, one of the incredible sunsets over the river).

For something a little more private, and right on the water, Bill’s Boathouse won’t disappoint. This fully self-contained floating pod is the definition of magical, complete with its own firepit and outdoor bathtub.

Relax while you explore

Let someone else take care of the planning – and pamper you – during your stay, with a cruise aboard the unforgettable Murray Princess.

Experience the timeless grandeur of cruising on the Southern Hemisphere’s largest paddle wheeler, where the breathtaking scenery of the majestic Murray River is complemented by historical and cultural immersion and premium dining.

Explore the rich river heritage and picturesque buildings and riverfront at the birthplace of Australia’s first paddle steamer in Mannum, discover the region’s First Nations culture at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, and see the stars and our native species as you’ve never seen them before on a nocturnal tour at Big Bend by Night. Best of all? All these experiences are organised for you, so you can sit back and sip a glass of local wine while you relax and take it all in.

Luxury of a different kind

Add a little excitement to your stay and live full-throttle for a day at The Bend Motorsport Park. With their hot lap experiences, you can live the dream of getting on track in race cars from Formula 1 to the V8s and even offroad rally racers. Can’t decide which one? Book a package and live the ultimate racing experience.

Then, once your heartrate needs a break, head to The Bend’s Apex Restaurant for a gourmet dining experience starring some of the Murraylands’ and Coorong’s best produce (all while overlooking the action in pit straight).

Prefer something a little more laid back? Pack an appetite and take the 30 minute scenic drive from Murray Bridge through rolling paddocks and untouched bush to the Langhorne Creek Wine Region. Here you’ll find some of SA’s best wineries who revel in doing things differently. Taste unique wine varietals, laze on lush lawns with gourmet platters and woodfired pizza, take your time with a tasting experience or sip on a refreshing local gin. You can easily spend and day here winery hopping – and we promise you won’t regret it!

So if you’re looking for a day that combines the glitz and gourmet – or a magical week away – have a flutter on the Magic Millions Raceday and discover all that’s extra special in the Murraylands.