Derby Day
The race goes off about 6:50 p.m., after 'My Old Kentucky Home'.
Kentucky Derby
The 'Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports': hats, mint juleps and America's greatest horse race, on the first Saturday in May.
Run at Louisville's Churchill Downs since 1875, the Derby draws around 150,000 people. The infield is a giant party, and the grandstands fill with elaborate hats and seersucker.
The two-week Kentucky Derby Festival before it brings steamboat races, parades and fireworks.
- Best Time
- Late April to early May
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- First Saturday in May
- Getting There
- Louisville International is 10 minutes from Churchill Downs.
What to See
1 of 3 are freeKentucky Oaks
The race for fillies, on the Friday, with a pink theme.
Thunder Over Louisville
One of America's largest fireworks shows, two weeks before the Derby.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets and hotels are costly, so plan early.
- Bags are strictly limited: check the Churchill Downs rules.
- The Kentucky Derby Museum is open all year.
Where to Stay
Stay in Louisville, or in Lexington if it's sold out.
Where to Eat
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Go Next
If You're NearbyLouisville
Kentucky
Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and the gateway to bourbon country.
Full Guide
Worth a Detour
If You're NearbyCincinnati
Ohio
An Ohio River city with the Underground Railroad Freedom Center and chili served over spaghetti.
Full Guide
Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Southeast list.