top of page

First-Timer’s Guide to Churchill Downs: Tips for an Unforgettable Day at the Races

Writer's picture: Kristina LightKristina Light

Churchill Downs Kentucky

The History of Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs is one of the most famous horse racing venues in the world, best known for hosting the Kentucky Derby since 1875. Located in Louisville, Kentucky, the track was founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., who was inspired by European horse racing traditions. The twin spires, built in 1895, have become an iconic symbol of American horse racing.


Our family ensures we visit the most iconic attractions in every state, so Churchill Downs was a necessary stop on our Kentucky trip. Although we don't gamble, we still enjoyed a fantastic day at the races, observing the horses, discovering the history of Churchill Downs, tasting mint juleps, and experiencing the iconic aspects of the race beginning with the bugle call.

Churchill Downs

Today, Churchill Downs hosts several racing events throughout the year, with the Kentucky Derby (first Saturday in May) being the most famous. Other notable events include the Kentucky Oaks, Spring Meet, and Fall Meet. During race season (spring-fall), they also host over 70 live races that are less popular, but perfect for first-timers as they are less crowded and more low-key.


Horse Race at Churchill Downs

Best Time to Visit Churchill Downs

  • Spring Meet (April – June): Features the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, attracting large crowds and extravagant fashion.

  • September Meet (September): A smaller, more relaxed racing season.

  • Fall Meet (October – November): Offers cooler weather and competitive races, great for a less crowded experience.

  • Derby Week (Late April – Early May): Includes pre-Kentucky Derby celebrations, the Derby itself, and many themed events.


What to Wear: Churchill Downs Dress Code


Churchill Downs

Attending the races at Churchill Downs is as much about the fashion as it is about the horses. Your attire depends on your seating area:

  • General Admission/Infield: Casual clothing like jeans, shorts, and T-shirts is acceptable.

  • Grandstand Seats: Business casual is recommended—think sundresses, polos, and khakis.

  • Turf Club, Millionaires Row, and VIP Areas: Expect formal attire, including dresses, suits, and fascinators or Derby hats.

  • Kentucky Derby Day: The bigger the hat, the better! Women wear elegant dresses with statement hats, while men typically wear seersucker suits or pastel-colored blazers.


Must-Know Traditions at Churchill Downs


Churchill Charlie, the Mascot of Churchhill Downs
Churchill Charlie

  • Churchill Charlie: The official mascot of Churchill Downs, Churchill Charlie is available for photo ops with fans on race days.

  • Mint Juleps: The official drink of the Kentucky Derby, this bourbon-based cocktail is a must-try. Nearly 120,000 mint juleps are served during Derby weekend! You may purchase the drink in a souvenir julep cup.

  • The Playing of “My Old Kentucky Home”: Just before the Kentucky Derby, the crowd sings this state anthem. In recent years, the song has been performed without lyrics or with modified lyrics.

  • Bugler’s Call to Post: A live bugler plays the "Call to the Post" before each race, signaling the horses to enter the track.

  • Winner’s Circle & Garland of Roses: The Derby winner receives a garland of roses, a tradition dating back to 1896.


Parking & Transportation Tips


Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

  • Arrive Early: Parking fills up fast, especially during major races like the Derby.

  • Official Parking: On-site parking requires reservations and is limited during Derby Week.

  • Off-Site Parking & Shuttles: Nearby parking lots offer shuttle services to the track.

  • Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft drop-offs are available at Gate 1 and 17, making it a hassle-free option.

  • Public Transportation: TARC buses run routes to Churchill Downs from downtown Louisville.


Tips for Bringing Kids to Churchill Downs


Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs can be a family-friendly experience if you plan ahead:

  • Best Days to Visit: Avoid Derby Day and opt for a quieter race day in the Spring or Fall Meets.

  • General Admission: Kids 12 and under get in free with a paying adult. General admission tickets start at $10.00 per adult for Spring, September, and Fall Meets. Limit two (2) children per paying adult. Additional children will require the purchase of a full-price general admission ticket. (This does not apply on Kentucky Derby & Oaks Days.)

  • Watch the Horses before the Race: Each horse may be viewed leaving the paddocks and heading to the tunnels before the race. We were able to learn from volunteer guides about the horses and the history of racing in Kentucky.

  • Activities for Kids: The Kentucky Derby Museum (located at Churchill Downs) features interactive exhibits and a miniature horse exhibit.


Food & Drinks at Churchill Downs



There are plenty of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining:

  • Classic Derby Fare: Try the Kentucky Hot Brown, a famous open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon and Mornay sauce.

  • Local Bourbon Selection: Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and Churchill Downs offers a wide variety of bourbon cocktails.

  • Concessions & Food Stalls: You’ll find BBQ, burgers, and Southern-inspired cuisine throughout the venue.


Driving Distances to Churchill Downs

  • From Lexington, KY – 80 miles (~1 hour 15 minutes)

  • From Cincinnati, OH – 100 miles (~1 hour 40 minutes)

  • From Indianapolis, IN – 115 miles (~2 hours)

  • From Nashville, TN – 175 miles (~3 hours)

  • From St. Louis, MO – 260 miles (~4 hours)

  • From Chicago, IL – 300 miles (~5 hours)

  • From Atlanta, GA – 420 miles (~6.5 hours)

  • From Kansas City, MO – 490 miles (~7.5 hours)


Kentucky Derby Museum

Attending a race at Churchill Downs is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re visiting for the Kentucky Derby or a regular race day. From the thrill of the races to the time-honored traditions, there’s something for everyone at this iconic racetrack.


Have you visited Churchill Downs? Share your experience in the comments!




Our Top Picks on Amazon for a Day at the Races:

This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Churchill Downs: America's Most Historic Racetrack

Join author Kimberly Gatto as she explores the history of Churchill Downs, the iconic racing venue that revolutionized the "Sport of Kings" and established the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, and Clark Handicap. Horse enthusiasts will enjoy tales of legendary horses, from Ten Broeck's early victory to Barbaro's Derby win. "Churchill Downs: America’s Most Historic Racetrack" covers financial struggles, the rise of parimutuel betting, the iconic twin spire grandstand, and the impact of television on the track's legacy.




Two Minutes to Glory: The Official History of the Kentucky Derby

Experience the world's greatest horse race through this definitive history of the Kentucky Derby. This comprehensive book offers a front row seat at "the Run for the Roses," capturing the essence of America's iconic event, watched by millions from "Millionaire's Row" to home viewers. As the official Derby reference, it features a complete history, essential facts, statistics, and stories of dreams won and lost since 1875. Relive each thrilling two-minute race and discover fascinating trivia, including Triple Crown nominees, famous disqualifications, and more.



The First Kentucky Derby: Thirteen Black Jockeys, One Shady Owner, and the Little Red Horse That Wasn't Supposed to Win

Today’s Kentucky Derby is a multimillion-dollar event with corporate sponsorship, global media coverage, and a citywide festival in Louisville, attracting 150,000 spectators and 15 million TV viewers each May. In contrast, the first Derby in 1875 was held at the small Louisville Jockey Club track, later known as Churchill Downs, with 12,000 spectators. The grandstand was basic, and bookmakers operated legally, with most jockeys being Black. In The First Kentucky Derby, historian Mark Shrager explores the inaugural race, potential race-fixing, and the significant role of African Americans in Gilded Age racing.



Whisper on the Wind: The Story of Tom Bass - Celebrated Black Horseman

Before Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King, there was Tom Bass, a black horse whisperer born a slave who excelled in Saddlebred horse training. At nine, he taught a mule to canter backwards. Advocating gentleness, Bass transformed dangerous horses into reliable mounts without raising his voice or using a whip, and invented a humane bit still used today. His greatest achievements were in the saddle, producing unmatched horses like Buffalo Bill's Columbus. As the greatest horseman of the late 19th century, he transcended racial barriers, becoming the first black American to ride in Madison Square Garden and befriending five U.S. presidents. Upon his death in 1934, his name was synonymous with equestrian excellence, though his story faded until this biography revived it.



The Horse God Built: The Untold Story of Secretariat, the World's Greatest Racehorse

The legacy of Secretariat, the legendary chestnut racehorse, is well-known, marked by his unparalleled achievements, including being the only two-year-old to win Horse of the Year in 1972 and his historic Triple Crown victories in 1973, with records that still stand today. While his fame has endured, the story of Eddie "Shorty" Sweat, Secretariat's devoted groom, remains largely untold. In The Horse God Built, Lawrence Scanlan honors Sweat's exceptional life and contributions to the racing world, providing a heartfelt exploration of the deep connection between the groom and his horse. Through Sweat's eyes, readers experience the joy and challenges of caring for one of racing's greatest icons, revealing a poignant narrative of love, loyalty, and the often-overlooked figures behind the scenes.



Seabiscuit: An American Legend

Seabiscuit became one of the most electrifying attractions in sports history, garnering more media attention in 1938 than figures like FDR and Hitler, despite being initially dismissed by the racing establishment. His fortunes changed thanks to three unlikely partners: Charles Howard, a former bicycle repairman turned millionaire; Tom Smith, a mysterious mustang breaker who saw potential in Seabiscuit and urged Howard to buy him; and Red Pollard, a blind-in-one-eye, half-crippled jockey who was also a failed boxer. Together, they overcame a series of challenges to transform Seabiscuit from an underperforming horse into an American sports icon.




Derby Day | Horse Racing Board Game

Bring home the excitement of the racetrack with Brybelly's Derby Day Horse Racing game. Deal cards to distribute shares of 12 unique horses, roll dice to race them, and aim for the jackpot. Play with 2-6 players or use alternate rules for larger groups. The game includes premium paper currency featuring legendary horses like Secretariat and Seabiscuit, a game board, cards, dice, and instructions.



Officially Licensed Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs Logo Sweatshirt

Authentic Kentucky Derby clothing features comfortable fabric and a digitally printed emblem, making it a fantastic addition to any wardrobe. With an 8.5 oz weight, a classic fit, and a twill-taped neck, this apparel combines style and comfort perfectly.



Officially Licensed Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs T-Shirt

Experience comfort and style with our Kentucky Derby Churchill Downs T-Shirt, made from high-quality materials for durability and softness. This t-shirt embodies the Derby spirit, offering versatility and ease of care, making it a wardrobe essential.



Officially Licensed Kentucky Derby Grand Prize Logo T-Shirt

This t-shirt is a perfect way to celebrate the Kentucky Derby while enjoying the comfort of high-quality fabric. With its officially licensed logo and soft texture, this shirt will easily become a favorite in your wardrobe. Whether at the races or just out and about, you'll love how you look and feel in this stylish tribute to a beloved tradition.



Catstudio Kentucky Derby Drinking Glass | Geography Inspired Artwork Printed on a Frosted Cup

This 9 oz glass showcases all the iconic elements of the Kentucky Derby: "Call to the Post," The Greatest Race, Millionaires Row, Ticket stubs, Roses, Horses, Hats, Jockeys, Twin Spires, Churchill Downs, and Winners Circle, making it a perfect souvenir for your Derby day.


Pin for Later:


First-Timer's Guide to Churchill Downs

4 Comments


Felicia
Jan 10

The Kentucky Derby would be such an iconic thing to attend. I had no idea that dressing by class was a thing still. Looks like you guys had fun.

Like

Tania M
Jan 10

Looks like a fun day at the races. I've been to similar events and always love the fashions on the field.

Like

SamH Travels
Jan 09

As a UK Traveller, I must admit I hadn’t heard of Churchill Downs or the Ketucky Derby however whilst reading through your post I felt it is similar to our Ascot event, where as you mentioned, fashion is just as important as the race!

I love the game,..looks pretty cool.

Like

Kailey
Jan 09

I didn't realize this is so close to Nashville, I'll have to visit next time I visit my friend in eastern Tennessee! Last time I visited her, we went to the Belle Meade Historic site in Nashville, which actually has a connection to the Kentucky Derby - more than two-thirds of all Kentucky Derby winners to date, including 11 Triple Crown Winners, are descendants of Belle Meade's best stallion, Bonnie Scotland. I think a visit to Churchill Downs is definitely in the future for me. Thank you for all the great tips in this post!

Like

Join the Club: Sign up for the FREE Newsletter from Surprising Getaways

Join our email list for travel inspiration and tips.

Thanks for submitting!

Do you want to travel affordably and easily?
Here are some of our favorite travel resources:

Flights: For the best flight deals I highly recommend CheapOair. Their website is our go-to for discovering fantastic flight offers!

 

Accommodations: When it comes to finding great hotel deals, Booking.com is my top choice. VRBO is my top pick for longer term rentals with the family or groups.

Car Rental: RentalCars.com is available in over 60,000 locations worldwide.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is crucial for many reasons. EKTA offers simple and flexible coverage protecting against unexpected events.

 

Camera: The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor for capturing stunning images with impressive detail and low noise. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, you can easily stay connected and share your photos instantly.

Tours: I LOVE taking tours to experience destinations like a local—my preferred site for booking them in advance is GetYourGuide.

 

Tickets: We enjoy shows, concerts, and live performances on our trips. TicketMaster is reliable for verified tickets to the shows we want to see.

  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
© 2024-2025 Kristina Light | All Rights Reserved.

Message from Our Team: Surprising Getaways is supported by our readers. If you make a purchase through the links on our website, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We appreciate your support!

bottom of page