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America's Most Iconic Racing Event: The Kentucky Derby 🐎⛴️ - Louisville, Kentucky.

Read about the Kentucky Derby and all there is to do in Louisville!

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Today’s location hosts the most renowned horse racing event in the nation!

Approaching Louisville, Kentucky, travelers are greeted by a city that intertwines its historical roots with contemporary urban life. Situated along the banks of the Ohio River, Louisville's skyline offers a glimpse into its past and present, with architectural styles ranging from the castle-like mansions of Old Louisville to the sleek lines of downtown skyscrapers.

Louisville's climate reflects the changing seasons typical of the American Midwest, with warm summers, colorful autumns, and occasional snowy winters. The geography of the region, characterized by rolling hills and the Ohio River, provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration.

But what brings 165,000 people every single year is the most legendary race in the nation: The Kentucky Derby.

The longest continually held major sporting event in the United States, the Kentucky Derby, is known as the "Run for the Roses" and has become synonymous with elegance, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence in horse racing.

As the first leg of the prestigious Triple Crown series, the Kentucky Derby marks the beginning of a thrilling journey for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds, their connections, and their fans. Winning the Derby is a lifelong dream for horsemen around the world, which adds to the suspense and passion of it all.

The Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance tests the horse and rider's speed, stamina, and courage. With a field limited to just 20 contenders, earning a coveted spot in the starting gate is an achievement in itself, requiring months of preparation and competition in qualifying races. Since the race is limited to only 3-year-old thoroughbreds, each horse’s first time in the starting gates of the derby is also their last.

Derby Week is a celebration unlike any other, featuring a variety of events and activities leading up to the main event. The Kentucky Derby has become much more than “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” though. It’s the biggest party in Louisville – a multi-week whirlwind of special events and entertainment with a little something for everyone: fashion, food, music, revelry, celebrity sightings, and, of course, great horse racing. This year marks the 150th annual Kentucky Derby, so this year’s races are sure to bring lots of extra fun along with them.

Here’s where all the fun is in Louisville

Churchill Downs

Obviously, we couldn’t highlight the Kentucky Derby without showcasing the legendary Churchill Downs Racetrack.

  • The Twin Spires: One of the most recognizable architectural features in sports, the Twin Spires were added to Churchill Downs in 1895. They have since become an enduring symbol of the racetrack and the Kentucky Derby.

  • Tradition: The Kentucky Derby is rich in tradition, from singing "My Old Kentucky Home" to the iconic mint juleps served in commemorative glasses. These customs add to the unique charm of the Kentucky Derby.

  • Tours: Take a guided tour of Churchill Downs to explore its storied past and behind-the-scenes areas. Learn about the track's history, visit the paddock and winner's circle, and see the iconic Twin Spires up close.

Churchill Downs has always been the most beautiful place to watch Thoroughbred racing, but this year (in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby), the track and facilities are seeing a big upgrade.

Just in time for the derby, Churchill Downs has completed a $200 million Paddock redevelopment project, where the main focus was to enhance the guest experience, and just that it did. Here are some of the new features at Churchill Downs:

  • Improved visibility of the iconic Twin Spires

  • Streamlined circulation paths

  • New audio-visual experiences

  • Introduction of premium clubs, reserved dining options, and additional guest space.

With three annual race meets totaling 83 live race dates, including the prestigious Spring Meet featuring the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs remains at the forefront of the sport. We would not miss a chance to see it!

Besides racing, what else is there?

The Belle of Louisville - Steamboat

Location: The Belle of Louisville docks along the Ohio River in downtown Louisville.

  • Built in 1914, the Belle of Louisville is the oldest operating steamboat in the United States.

  • Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1989, the Belle offers nostalgic riverboat cruises along the Ohio River.

  • Aboard the Belle to experience the charm of a bygone era, complete with music and scenic views of the Louisville skyline.

  • The Belle also offers tours where you can learn about the city's history on the river and see old architecture.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Location: Situated in downtown Louisville, near the historic Whiskey Row district.

  • The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory showcases the history of baseball and the iconic Louisville Slugger baseball bat.

  • Visitors can tour the factory to see firsthand how Louisville Slugger bats are made and even hold a bat used by legendary baseball players.

  • Learn about the evolution of baseball and the role of the Louisville Slugger bat in the sport's history.

  • Test your swing in the interactive exhibits, such as the batting cages or the home run derby.

The Speed Art Museum

Location: The Speed Art Museum is located in Louisville's historic Old Louisville neighborhood.

  • Founded in 1927, the Speed Art Museum is Kentucky's oldest and largest art museum.

  • The museum's collection includes over 18,000 works of art spanning 6,000 years of human creativity, with a focus on American, European, and contemporary art.

This summer, the museum will host a work by Yayoi Kusama called “Infinity Mirrored Room– LET’S SURVIVE FOREVER.”

Waterfront Park

Location: Waterfront Park stretches along the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Louisville.

  • Waterfront Park offers 85 acres of green space and scenic waterfront views, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

  • The park features walking and biking paths, playgrounds, splash pads, and event spaces, providing opportunities for visitors of all ages to enjoy the outdoors.

  • We recommend a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the park's scenic pathways to enjoy views of the Ohio River and downtown skyline.

The University of Louisville: Where Knowledge Meets Innovation

  • Founded in 1798, UofL is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Its storied past is reflected in its historic buildings and renowned academic programs.

  • Athletic Excellence: Home to the Louisville Cardinals, UofL boasts a proud athletic culture. The Cardinals are one of only six schools that have appeared more than once in each of the following events—a BCS bowl game, the men's and women's basketball Final Fours, and the College World Series. UofL’s athletics make attending there something truly exciting.

Louisville, Kentucky, is a city brimming with history, culture, and opportunity. From the iconic Churchill Downs and the excitement of the Kentucky Derby to the Ohio River and waterfront park, Louisville has something for those in search of adrenaline and for those in search of relaxation. Whether you're exploring the historic neighborhoods, finding a bite to eat, or immersing yourself in Thoroughbred racing, Louisville is a great city in the Midwest to explore.

See you in Louisville!

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