VISITING INFORMATION

Get ready for your visit to the Kentucky Derby 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 to attend the Kentucky Derby!

What to Expect at the Kentucky Derby

Fashion vs. Comfort

It’s easy to forget about your comfort when you are planning to look as fabulous as possible.

Weather

The Kentucky Derby is a rain or shine event be prepared as a large number of seatings are outdoors and uncovered.

The Crowd

The track attendance expects to be over 150,000 people, which is significantly larger than comparable sporting events.

What You Can Bring

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.

Your Tickets

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

Persons with Disabilities

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

Finding Help

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

Cellular & Wi-Fi Service

There is no public Wi-Fi available on Oaks and Derby Days.

WHAT TO WEAR

Explore Women’s and Men’s Fashion

See the latest Derby fashion trends to inspire your look for race day.

Learn more

TRAVEL: PARKING & TRANSPORTATION

On-Site Parking

There is limited on site parking some. See more information on when to purchase and directions to specific lots.

Off-Site Parking

Frontside Reserve Seating tickets can park for free at the Kentucky Exposition Center and take the shuttle over to the track.

Ride Share & Pick-Up

Taxi or rideshare pick-up and drop-off will take place at the Bronze Lot at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium.

ADA Parking

There will be ADA-accessible parking & shuttles available from the Kentucky Exposition Center.

EVENT INFORMATION

Security Information

Arrive early to accommodate search procedures at all admission gates.

Gates & Post Times

Get all of the information surrounding the races on Derby Week.

Policies & Exceptions

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

The Churchill Downs App

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

VISITING US FAQs

Our goal is to make sure you have a memorable experience at the Kentucky Derby.

View more questions

 

There is a full week of daily events at the track during Derby Week. See the full list of Derby Week Events and activities.

 

Tickets can be accessed through the Churchill Downs app and connecting your Ticketmaster account to the app. You MUST have your tickets in order to get through the gates.

 

Yes, TwinSpires is the official betting partner of the Kentucky Derby. Download their app and begin wagering on all of the races. Pro tip: download the app and sign up prior to arriving at the facility to avoid connectivity issues at the track.

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.

Churchill Downs Facility Map

Get ready for the Kentucky Derby with an updated facility map!

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