A Dozen Things To Do in Louisville During The Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby may be famously known as "the fastest two minutes in sports," but this iconic annual event in Louisville is anything but a blink-and-you-miss-it affair. While the race is undoubtedly the centerpiece, the Kentucky Derby Festival stretches over two weeks, long before the horses even step foot on the track at Churchill Downs.
Securing a ticket to the Derby gets you a seat for the big race, but the true magic of Derby Week unfolds in the days leading up to it. Louisville comes alive with an incredible array of events, parties, and local traditions that can easily make you forget the race is the main attraction. Having attended the Kentucky Derby for years, we've gathered our favorite experiences and can't wait to share all the best things to do in Louisville during this unforgettable time of year.
What it Means to “Derby It Up”
In Louisville, the Kentucky Derby is far more than just a legendary sporting event — it's a season unto itself, one that locals consider the most vibrant and exhilarating time of year. To “Derby It Up” means embracing the energy of the city as it transforms into a hub of fashion, festivities, and tradition, all in preparation for one of the most glamorous sporting events in the United States. Though the race may only last a couple of heart-pounding minutes, the spirit of the Derby pulses through Louisville all year long — and never more so than during the whirlwind of Derby Week!
Getting in the Spirit of Derby Week
Locals and visitors alike enjoy getting into the spirit of the pomp and pageantry of Derby Week in Louisville. Before you begin building your itinerary and scoping out the best things to do in Louisville on Derby Weekend, you will want to prepare accordingly.
First, start by shopping for your Derby outfit. The Kentucky Derby is considered by many to be more than just a horse race — it’s also a real-time fashion show, in which attendees strive to wear their brightest colors and largest, most spectacular hats. If you don’t think you will be able to pack that fabulous fascinator in your suitcase, don’t worry — you can always shop at one of the local Louisville hat shops throughout the week.
Lauren in her Hat at the Derby
Pro Tip: Don’t forget about your personal comfort during Derby week! Yes, crafting a memorable and remarkable outfit is fun, but you may also want to bring a rain poncho or a pair of flip-flops to change into — just in case!
In addition to readying your ensemble for race day, you can also spend time learning more about the culture and traditions surrounding this event. On the surface, the race that brings more than 150,000 people to Churchill Downs each year seems like a show of pageantry filled with plume-topped hats, stealthy jockeys and mint juleps, but in reality, this is an iconic event steeped in tradition and community pride.
The Best Mint Julep
12 Things to Do When Attending The Kentucky Derby:
Tour local horse farms
Surround yourself in Derby Week Vibe in NuLu
Visit the Muhammad Ali Center
Glide through the Louisville Mega Cavern
Experience the beauty of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum
Dine at Louisville’s most delicious restaurants - start your day at Wild Eggs , grab lunch at Doc Crow’s, and finish the day with a magnificent dinner at 610 Magnolia
Attend a Derby Party
Join the locals at The Oaks
Ready to experience the thrill of the Kentucky Derby like never before? From the excitement of Derby Week to the iconic race at Churchill Downs, there's no better time to explore Louisville! Let us help you plan the ultimate Derby getaway, complete with exclusive accommodations, insider tips on the best events, and tailored experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned Derby-goer, we've got you covered. Contact us today to start planning your perfect Kentucky Derby adventure!