churchill downs museum tour

Plan A Visit

Suggested Itineraries

Make the most out of your kentucky derby museum experience.

The first Saturday in May. It’s been said there’s nothing like the Kentucky Derby. That you have to be there to experience the full pomp and pageantry of “the greatest two minutes in sports.” Those of you lucky enough to have attended a Derby in the past know first-hand what we’re talking about. The Thoroughbreds, the people, the hats, the mint juleps, the handicapping, the singing of My Old Kentucky Home, the post parade, and finally, “They’re Off!” and the screaming for your horse to “get up there!” For those of us who love the Kentucky Derby, there’s a place that celebrates the spirit of this day. Every Day . And allows you to experience everything that makes this day legendary. The Kentucky Derby Museum, offering immersive experiences and exhibits, and if you like, a mint julep to wash it all down. We’d wager to bet it’s the best $20 you’ve spent in a long while. Located next to Churchill Downs.

There are so many Bucket List items at the Museum and Churchill Downs Racetrack that we want to make sure you experience the most out of your visit.

Book Your Experience

90 Minutes:

Guided Track Visit of Churchill Downs Racetrack
Watch "The Greatest Race"
Explore two floors of exhibits
Visit our Store to pick up some keepsakes

All of this is included in your general admission ticket of $20

Exclusive Superstars & Spires Tour of Churchill Downs (90 minutes)
Finish your visit inside our Derby Cafe & Bourbon Bar for Kentucky-inspired food and drinks

Enjoy the 10:00 a.m. Superstars & Spires Tour that takes you to exclusive areas of Churchill Downs that are typically closed to the public
Watch "The Greatest Race"
Explore two floors of exhibits
For lunch, head to the Derby Cafe for Kentucky-inspired food and drinks
You'll take a tour of Churchill Downs, then wind up back at the Museum to make a mint julep and enjoy a bourbon flight (Must be 21+ older to participate)
Wrap up your visit with a trip to our Store where you can select a bottle of bourbon, vintage Kentucky Derby Mint Julep glasses, and culinary items from Kentucky’s own Bourbon Barrel Foods.

If you are interested in purchasing more than one specialty tour during a visit, please call 502-637-1111. *Bourbon and Bridles Experience is offered on Tuesdays and Fridays.

General Information
Groups of 15 or more
Directions & Parking
Derby Cafe Express
Visiting Louisville
Hotel & Ticket Packages

VISITING INFORMATION

Get ready for your visit to historic Churchill Downs with helpful tips and event information.

FIRST TIME AT THE RACES?

Take our guided experience tour and learn more about planning your trip. Complete your check list to get ready visit Churchill Downs!

Explore our guided experience

WHAT TO EXPECT CHURCHILL DOWNS

Tickets are non-refundable and all tickets are accessed digitally.

If you see something, say something. Text the word DERBY to 69050 and you will be placed in touch with Guest Services.

Safety and security of all of our guests is taken very seriously. Your bag may be searched, and you may be wanded by security upon entry.

While there won’t be 150,000 people at the track like there is on Derby, large crowds are often present at large stakes race days and featured event days.

While there typically isn’t the need to dress up like Derby, there are some instances and areas that have dress codes or where themed attire is encouraged.

Races are a rain or shine event be prepared as a large number of seatings are outdoors and uncovered.

We will do our absolute best to accommodate persons with disabilities. We are unable to provide wheelchairs for rent or storage.

There is public Wi-Fi available on race days.

WHAT TO EXPECT

TRAVEL: PARKING & TRANSPORTATION

There is plenty of on site parking. See more information on directions to specific lots for each meet.

Taxi or rideshare pick-up and drop-off should be encouraged to take guests to the Clubhouse or VIP gates.

There will be ADA-accessible parking in our parking lots.

EXPLORE TRAVEL INFORMATION

EVENT INFORMATION

Arrive early to accommodate search procedures at all admission gates.

Norton Sports Health , the Official Medical Provider for Churchill Downs

Get all of the information surrounding the races.

Review the list of items that are permitted and those that cannot be brought into the racing facility.

Download to access your tickets, facility maps, wayfinding and more!

EXPLORE ALL EVENT INFORMATION

VISITING US FAQs

Our goal is to make sure you have a memorable experience at Churchill Downs. Please see our helpful guide of frequently asked questions.

View More Questions

When is live racing held?

Typically, Churchill Downs has three meets a year where live racing occurs. There is the Spring Meet which begins after the Kentucky Derby. Later in the year there is also the September and Fall Meet which concludes after Thanksgiving weekend. Check out the calendar to see all of our race days here.

What time do races start at Churchill Downs?

The exact race time can vary from day to day during the meet. We encourage you to review the calendar to see all post times for the day you plan on attending the races.

What are some other events and activities you have during a race meet?

Churchill Downs has a number of race days with unique features. This can include family adventure days with activities for children, Twilight Thursday for evening races with discount drinks and food trucks and Downs After Dark which have night time racing and themes to name a few. We encourage you to check out the specific featured events for the upcoming meet.

Are there restrictions on what I can bring into Churchill Downs?

Yes, there are restrictions on items you can bring, including bag size limitations and prohibited items. Check out the full list for the most up-to-date information .

What is the dress code for Churchill Downs?

While there typically isn’t the need to dress up like Derby, there are some instances and areas that have dress codes or where themed attire is encouraged. Downs After Dark for example are night time races with themed events and encouraged. In some locations, like membership clubs and suites, there are certain levels of dress required. Follow this helpful information, and check the seating areas pages you are attending for specific Do’s and Dont's.

Track Casual Applicable Areas: Aristides Lounge, Champions Bar & Balcony, First Turn Club Dining, Gold Room, Homestretch Club, Loft at Aristides Lounge, Millionaires Row, Skye Terrace, Stakes Room & Balcony, Winner’s Circle Suites

Do's: Jackets and blazers optional. Vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts and slacks are appropriate, as are golf shorts and capris.

Don'ts: Worn or torn garments, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, frayed or torn denim, and flip-flops are considered inappropriate attire.

Smart Casual

Applicable Areas: Derby Room, Grand Foyer, Jockey Club Suites, Matt Winn’s Steakhouse, Oaks Room, Roses Lounge, Starting Gate Suites, Triple Crown Room & Balcony, Turf Club Boxes

Do's: Jackets and blazers optional. Vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts and slacks are appropriate.

Don'ts: Cargo shorts, t-shirts, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, frayed or torn denim or shorts, and tennis shoes are considered inappropriate attire.

*Dress Code for Roses Lounge is Smart Casual, except for Derby Week, Mother's Day, Preakness, Belmont, Thanksgiving and the Clark Handicap when this room is considered to be Turf Club Roses Lounge. On these days the dress code is Business Casual.

Business Casual

Applicable Areas: Directors Room, Finish Line Suites & Balcony, Spires Terrace & Suites, Trophy Room, Turf Club Roses Lounge, Turf Club Terrace & Balcony

Do's: Jackets and blazers, vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, slacks and capri pants are appropriate.

Don'ts: Jeans/denim, shorts, t-shirts, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, and flip-flops are all considered inappropriate attire & are not permitted in these areas.

What happens if it rains on a race day?

Churchill Downs race days run rain or shine. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate attire, including rain gear, if necessary. Check out the full list for the most up-to-date information .

Your Expert Guide to Louisville

Make the most of your visit to Churchill Downs home of the Kentucky Derby by exploring Louisville Kentucky.

Churchill Downs Virtual Venue

View various sections to familiarize yourself with historic Churchill Downs Racetrack.

Explore Churchill Downs

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