First Timer’s Guide to the Kentucky Derby®

Posted by Madison Heid on July 01, 2023

One of the first decisions you must make before attending the Kentucky Derby® is your ideal seating location. Luckily, Derby Experiences offers access to the most sought-after seats all over the track at the Churchill Downs®. 

Seating Locations & Views of the Track: 

Premium Rooms: These packages spare nothing but the best for race day. From premium bars, gourmet food selections, and exceptional atmospheres, you can't go wrong with any of the rooms.

Clubhouse: If you want a view near the finish line, you'll be happy in a Clubhouse seat. Spanning from the center of the track all the way down to the first turn, this is one of the most elite seating options at Churchill Downs.

Grandstand: Catch all the action stretching from the starting gate out to the round of the final turn from this seating area. It offers three levels of seating, covered and uncovered, granting unparalleled views of the race.

Official Ticket Packages:

Why deal with massive lines, transportation blunders, finding your hotel, and buying each drink and food item all day – when there is an option to package it all together?

With Derby Experiences' Official Kentucky Derby Ticket Packages, you won’t have to worry about a single thing regarding race day. Transportation to and from the track, all-inclusive hospitality access, hotel options, tickets to both days of racing, and much more will provide you with the best experience for the Kentucky Derby.

Derby Parties:

Don’t miss out on Louisville’s hottest parties during Derby Week. Mingle with celebrities and horsemen while enjoying delectable menus, signature drinks, exciting entertainment, and more!

Taste of Derby: Enjoy a night full of top chef creations, and drink pairings on the eve of the Kentucky Oaks®.

Fillies & Lilies Party: Up for a night at the Kentucky Derby Museum? Get access to the kick-off party for the Kentucky Derby on Friday night with food, drinks, and live entertainment. 

Winner's Party: Partake in the celebration and action of crowning the new champion at this post-race party. Toasting alongside winning jockey, trainers and owners will top off your Kentucky Derby experience. Don’t miss out on Louisville’s hottest parties during Derby Week. Mingle with celebrities and horsemen while enjoying delectable menus, signature drinks, exciting entertainment, and more!

Top 3 Things to Do in Louisville:

Check out Fourth Street Live! - Located on Fourth Street between Liberty and Muhammad Ali Boulevard, head to the heart of Louisville for this hot spot with numerous restaurants, bourbon lounges, and live entertainment.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co - Check out this spot for a world-class distillery tour and sampling room of one of Kentucky’s finest bourbons.

Take a Tour - Derby Experiences can set you up on a Horse Farm, Distillery, or Best of Kentucky Tour that will make you feel like a true Kentuckian.


Miss out on the Kentucky Derby this year? Be there next year!

Now that you are filled up to the brim with helpful knowledge and insider information, all that’s left to do is secure your access! An event specialist will help you find the right package for you and your party to have the ultimate Kentucky Derby experience. Don’t miss out on The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.

Kentucky Derby Official Ticket Packages