Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby)

Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby)

4.6 3,408 Reviews
Timothy Lau
Reviews 1

If you have nostalgia for horse racing the museum is pretty nifty. If you like watching horse racing, going during the week is often less than 10 dollars. If you you want to join the frenzy that the city goes into on Derby day, park a couple blocks away to be able to get out at a reasonable pace. My house may be available for rent.

Donna Larson
Reviews 1

I have been to Churchill Downs 100's of times. The atmosphere is festive. The crowds are always fun to mingle with. People come from all over the planet to race and watch. Betting is easy with the WIFI apps available at this track. History is everywhere. You can get up close with the horses at the paddock. The seats suck so bring a cushion.

Marty Seese
Reviews 1

Nothing is maintained. Bathroom doors are all out of alignment. Facilities are terrible. Clearly they take all the income money and keep it for themselves and could care less if everything rots into the ground around the track. I was so disappointed. Nothing like they make it seem on the TV.

William Demopolis
Reviews 1

They don't sell racing forms on site is this the horse races or gocart races why sell food and drinks if you're not gonna sell forms. At least they woke up after 15 years and have coke a cola back maybe in 15 years you can get a form there.

Michele Paul
Reviews 1

I love Churchill Downs. I've now been to my 5th Oaks and my 3rd Derby as well as numerous other times. I have been on Mother's Day as well as several Downs After Dark. It is a wonderfully traditional Race Track with such a rich history I love thats it's less than a mile from my house. It can be extremely pricey, but I think it's worth it if you enjoy the pageantry and southern charm of it all. I would recommend it to locals and out of towners alike. Its simply the best and there is no comparison to the one of a kind experience. There are tricks to try to make it more economical and with some research on some different sites you may be able to get some kind of discounts, but I don't know for sure.

Bill Margelewski
Reviews 1

Went on 2 tours via the Kentucky Derby Musuem. The barn and backstretch tour and behind the scenes tour. Even if you are not a rabid racing fan I would highly highly highly recommend these tours. It is a special special place!!!!!!!

Dee Dee Martin
Reviews 1

What a fun experience! It s my first time going to Churchill so I was a bit intimidated by what to wear. I know, it s a girl thing. The track casual isn t very specific. Go comfortable! Especially in the footwear department. I ended up with HUGE blisters on my feet and had to buy flip flops that were 3 sizes too Small :) With that being said- we had tickets in Millionaire Row. It s a large ballroom with tables, a buffet & bar. You can also place your bets there as well. There is an outdoor area there so you can step out and watch the races if you wish. Be sure you walk down to The Paddock area and view the beautiful horses and go trackside to feel the thunder as they race by. It s an awesome experience! Great history and a beautiful place.

Brigid Young
Reviews 1

The first time I was at Churchill Downs on Derby Day due to working concessions for People Ready employment agency. How easy it is to get lost!!! Formal dining rooms (and kitchens) on every floor--as well as betting stations and ATMs of course! The view of the track and its landscaping is a beautiful sight from every floor with lots of interesting Outfits and Derby Hats!!! The fashion-flashin' dudes (in my opinion) had some of THE most eye-catching looks of all! Its the one day of the year where all bets are off and anything goes!!!

Ashley Kumbier
Reviews 1

Really enjoyed the museum and the general tour. Was far more interesting than I expected it to be. One tip, if you want to do other behind the scenes tours, be sure to show up early or get in advance. We showed up around 10 and all but the general admission tour had sold out for the morning, wirh the nexr one at 1 pm (museum opens at 9).

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About Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby)

Known as the home of the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks, Churchill Downs Racetrack conducts Thoroughbred horse racing in Louisville, Kentucky, during three race meets in the Spring, September, and the Fall.

Churchill Downs, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a world-renowned racetrack that has been hosting Thoroughbred horse racing for over 140 years. The track is most famous for being the home of the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks, two of the most prestigious horse races in the world.

The history of Churchill Downs dates back to 1875 when Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., grandson of William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame), founded the track. Since then, Churchill Downs has become an iconic venue that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The racetrack hosts three race meets each year: one in the Spring (which includes both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks), one in September, and one in November. During these meets, visitors can enjoy not only horse racing but also a variety of other events such as concerts and food festivals.

One thing that sets Churchill Downs apart from other racetracks is its commitment to preserving its rich history while also embracing modern technology. For example, while many tracks have switched to synthetic surfaces for their tracks, Churchill Downs has maintained its traditional dirt surface. However, it has also implemented state-of-the-art safety measures such as a new drainage system that helps prevent injuries to horses.

In addition to hosting horse racing events throughout the year, Churchill Downs also offers tours of its facilities. Visitors can take a behind-the-scenes look at areas such as the paddock where horses are saddled before races and even visit Millionaires Row where VIPs watch races from private suites.

Churchill Downs is not just a destination for horse racing enthusiasts; it's also an important part of American culture. The Kentucky Derby itself is often referred to as "the most exciting two minutes in sports" and draws viewers from around the world who tune in to watch this iconic event.

Overall, Churchill Downs Racetrack is an institution with a rich history that continues to evolve with modern times while still maintaining its traditions. Whether you're a seasoned race-goer or just looking for something fun to do on your next trip to Louisville, visiting this iconic venue should be at the top of your list!

Address
600 north hurstbourne parkway