Churchill Downs

We paid $17 each for a 30 minute tour of the grounds as well as entrance to the museum. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and encouraged us often to ask questions. As a childhood fan with very little knowledge of the history race, I was amazed with the history our tour guide was able to share in just the 30 minutes we were there. If you know more than me, you might ask questions and be pleasantly surprised to hear her explain Churchill Downs trivia. Since it was only a 30 minute tour, we didn't go far from the museum, but we did get to see the track and the winners circle under the twin towers! The museum is quite large and holds of a lot of interesting facts as well as interactive and informative games for some of the younger (or young at heart) crowd. 10/10, must visit!

One of the coolest things I've ever done! If you have the chance, visit Churchill Downs. It's an experience you'll never forget! When we visited, they had a bunch of food trucks in the vicinity. It was neat because you could walk around to a couple of food trucks, purchase some drinks, dance to the live music, and then go watch the horse races. We just sat in a general admission area which worked out perfect because we were there during the week when it wasn't crazy busy. Overall, we had an absolute blast!

Great experience! This was my first visit. We took a tour of the city and this was one of our stops. Enjoyed seeing the horses race and exploring the grounds, which are very beautiful. The gift shop has a good variety of items, such as derby hats, shirts, magnets, and derby collector items.

How could you not give this 5 stars! Historic, beautiful, an absolute must for everyone. If you go on any weekend other than Derby weekend, it is affordable ($10-30 seat tickets) and not crazy crowded! Keep in mind there is a dress code (not for basic admission) but for all of the restaurants inside the facility. It can all be found on their website. But there are plenty of food stands to buy food inside not connected to a restaurant. It can get pretty hot here, so be prepared. We had the time of our lives and would do it again in a heartbeat. If you're considering but not sure, just go, you will not regret it! It's Churchill Downs!!

Churchill Downs is THE American horse racing experience. Steeped in tradition and lore, reverence for 'The Sport of Kings' abounds. From the murals of Kentucky Derby winning jockeys and horse owners, the history of 'The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports' is on full display. Placards of past Derby winners adorn the paddock and entryway to Churchill Downs. Crowning Kentucky's bourbon country, guests may sip on a mint julep from the sheltered pavilion while watching horse trainers warm up their equine charges. Of course, betting is available from numerous windows available inside the pavilion. And even if your horse doesn't win, the spectacle of the surroundings and its pageantry make the experience memorable.

We enjoyed a day at the races. We haven't really done this, so there was much to learn. I downloaded the betting app and took advantage of the risk free $25 bet... and won! I won a few others and ended up ahead. We had lunch on Millionaire's Row, which was very good. I especially liked the pasta and the chocolate dipped cookies. We are looking forward to going again! (I had to delete the app. It was a little too much fun.)

Great place to visit while in Louisville! The experience here is very authentic as the charm to it is one of a kind! I’ve been to a lot of historic places and this one definitely gave me goosebumps while walking around! Highly recommend taking a tour!

Went to see horse races. Was a phenomenal experience. We got our tickets when we arrived which ended up costing us a third of the price. Has a parking lot concession stand for food drinks and a gift shop. You can smoke inside while watching the horse races. Once you enter you can't return. Races take place all day. Minimum bet for a horse race when we went was $50.

Nothing like going to the horse races at Derby time! Churchill Downs is beautiful and so are the people! Best people watching place! Of course the horses are bad looking either!

This review is for the Ross Lounge located on the third floor within the Turf Club area. While there is nice table seating with TVs and a deck outside to watch the races, it isn't worth the $66.00 ticket price. The new deal includes a chef's table which is mediocre at best. Service was good. I much preferred the previous way where you had a choice of the a la carte menu or the buffet, with only a nominal fee for the table. Certainly, with the extreme heat, we were happy to have the AC. It was a one off choice. At Churchill it's all about paying to play, so to speak. 56

We visited Churchill Downs again today to enjoy the final days of the spring meet. This was the final Saturday for the 2024 season and featured the Stephen Foster stakes. Temperatures were hot; however, the beer and bottled water was ice cold. We enjoyed touring around the property as well as enjoying seating in one of the 8-chair boxes at the top tier level to view several races. We finally retreated to the air conditioning. Very enjoyable venue and experience. We're looking forward to the fall meet 2024!

Great experience! Multiple seating options and plenty of food to choose from. The food wasn't the best, but not bad for the setting. Easy to bet on the horses and cash out quickly in between races.

Opening night @ Downs ...reserved a table in brand new SPORTS ILLUSTRATED room... The SI ROOM has beautiful decor ....views of paddock. ...view of .horses pass through tunnel entering thev track ....go outside on 3 levels to watch live races The buffet was delicious....Kenticky bourbon drinks mouth watering ... Our waitress AUTUMN was friendly..checking if needed anything all night for 5PM to 10PM ...she a real value to SI ROOM..... Only draws was no blender as my friend had asked for a strawberry dacuri she suggested to one bartenders .. ..might consider one behind the awesome bar !! Highly reccomend for a day of racing.. I will be back

Top notch if you are a horse race fan! This is the 150th running of the historic race of the KY Derby! Its about the horses, betting and people watching. You will see the most modest to outrageous hats and outfits and I'm not just talking about the ladies, the gents are so handsome in their suits and hats and some suits are outrageous as well. You have to experience this event at least once in your lifetime! This is my 2nd trip and I noticed lots of changes but still has the same feel as Churchill Downs has been know for since the 1800s. There is a new paddock area and no longer do you need to purchase food and drink. It is FREE! Although if you want a mint julep, the customary bourbon drink of all derby events you will pay $12. The free food is outside and in the clubhouses which are situated near each seating areas. If you want a sit down dinner overlooking the track on upper floors you will pay around $5000! A couple I met were treated to this event w all the bells and whistles, I'm guessing the Derby day alone for them probably was $10k. You can pay far less to get into the derby if you want to do General Admission in the sunshine. I chose my seat in the sunshine w access to Churchill Downs seating area. Its more money but a better experience overall and you can walk around and explore plus you can get seats close to the rail and watch the horses whiz buy all day. The last race of the day is the famous one which the winning horse is covered w a blanket of red roses at the end and on to victory (hopefully) at racing toward the triple crown in Maryland and New York. I was thrilled when in 2015 the horse I bet on( first time) at Churchill Downs went on to win the triple crown, a feat not afforded any other horse in over 30yrs, American Pharoah. You have to ck Churchill Downs out even if you don't go to the Derby. They are open most times of the year and they also have a museum. Kentucky has alot to offer!

So much fun. We took the family for the last day of racing. Beautiful place in really great shape. All the staff was so friendly. We had box tickets. The area was clean and bright. We ate at the buffet and it was great. Breakfast and lunch. Plenty of desserts as well. The racing was of course great! A ton of fun in a legendary place

Magnificent, wonderful, historical, American, Exciting, Exhilarating, Austentatios, Over-theTop, Welcoming, Imposing, People-watching, loud, mint juleps, colorful, bucket list, dazzling, impressive, and a memory to last a lifetime.

I only saw a small portion of the venue, so this review is based on that. We arrived to the venue knowing we wanted to see the museum but no other real plans... we thought we may take in some races or not. We weren't sure. We found parking for the museum really quick. However, after that it was not clear which way we should go or where anything was. There is construction going on and that made it more confusing, where the regular ticket booths are was closed. We took in the statue our front and found a post with signs directing us. After our museum tour we ended up opting out of staying for the races, but I still wasn't sure where you would even enter for that.... During the museum tour we did see the track which was very cool, the stadium and seating (there are different levels and sections). I loved the history of it and how all the winners names are on plaques around the venue. Very cool. Oh I will mention, I was dressed in athletic wear (leggings and hoodie) and did feel a bit like I may need to dress nicer to attend a race. People around the venue were dressed very nice - think church dress all the way up to fancy easter dress. I asked the museum person if there is a dress code and they assured me my attire was fine, however there are some areas of the venue that have a dress code requirement. If I were coming here to the races I'd plan to dress a bit nicer.

What a beautiful venue for the Kentucky Derby my first time here and I was in total aww. This is definitely a venue you should visit if you're in the Kentucky area. They have a museum and you are able to go on the tracks and learn all about the history of the Kentucky derby, you don't want to miss this if you have the time and must see!

We had an absolutely fantastic time visiting Churchill Downs. We almost didn't make it during our "Bourbon Trail" trip to Louisville but I managed to squeeze in a visit during our last half day in town and it ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. We both packed dresses and the biggest rimmed hats we could find in the closet. It was a little bit chilly but we had to make the most of what would likely be the closest thing we would experience to a Kentucky Derby. We must have really looked the part because as we were incorrectly heading to the museum part of the complex, someone on a golf cart drove up to us and said "are you ladies heading to the races?" and immmediately waved us in after we responded in the affirmative. He kindly drove us to the race part entrance. We had absolutely no clue where we were going but the staff directed us to the seating location indicated on our tickets. I didn't even intend to purchase tickets in the rose room (or whatever it's called) but that was a nice surprise! We had just eaten so did not consume any of the edible offerings. We did, however, hydrate with the bar offerings. I, a glass of Prosecco, and GF, a Bloody Mary. We took our seats and flipped through the provided program to choose what horses to place our bets on. Mind you, this was done purely on name alone which I do not recommend because even though I bet on the best odds, just to place in the top three, not one of our horses made it anywhere close. In fact, our horses frequently were mentioned in the context of "so and so is having trouble keeping up with the pack...". Despite losing a few bucks, it was incredibly fun and a really great experience. I highly recommend visiting. Also, btw, the bathrooms are wonderful,.

I thought my first Kentucky Derby would be our Only Derby but we came back 9 yrs later. It's definitely something everyone should experience . Do your research and find seats the best you can afford where you can see well. Between the big hats and crowds it's a challenge to see the horses from some locations on the track. This year everything is all inclusive everywhere but the infield. All drinks (alcohol and non alcohol) and food is included in price of your ticket. (Mint juleps in glass use To be $17 ea). Food included sliders, lobster rolls, chicken wings, Sandwiches etc. lines were sometimes long. It's a long day. Arrive sometime around 10-11AM and leave @8PM. Comfortable shoes a must. Big hats are pretty but wind and crowds, you're happy to get it off your head at end of the day. Read up on betting before you go. Bets placed are cash only. It's a great time!!

This stop was part of our city tour. Got dropped off for an hour and half. Got to do a really cool tour here. Went out into the stands and saw the track as well as walk through the museum. There is a really cool video to finish the tour of the history. This is a really cool place and the history was deep. Definitely a must stop for history buffs or people that like horses. Recommend watching Secretariat before going. Or after as you will recognize parts of the movie

Awesome free Derby Dawn at The Downs! A must do!! Wonderful Louisville Derby experience for locals and out of town guests. You can do a full on breakfast buffet or coffee at the grill!

Great pave to go for horse racing, also downs after dark racing is awesome lots to do and very fun, they have a band and it's a fun time!

How fun it was to visit the place where Derby takes place every first Saturday of May! We enjoyed the early morning event of Dawn at the Downs the week before Derby. It was amazing to see the horses, from the edge of the track, train for this event. The horses are beautiful and the jockeys are so strong! We enjoyed an authentic mint julep, and got to keep the souvenir glass!

I always wanted to see horse racing at this facility and finally got the chance and did two days ago. Great Experience and did not disappoint.

I used to love to come here however, my family comes in every year at memorial day weekend and to thier disappointment they couldn't get Lilly glasses while still paying same high price for the drink that at derby time you could get a glass i mean if out. Then lower the proce . There are so many improvements being made at the track and they are beautiful, so let's just not forget what makes this place a wonderful place to be. There also needs to be a more distinctive arra to catch shuttles to cars in the parking lot. Lots of people are cutting line Other than these things I really love my hometown past time place and hope these things are concerning to you as well thanks

My Tip: Wear comfortable shoe; flip flops was my choice. Sparkling flip flops but still...flip flops. By the end of the night, people were saying how smart it was and others were looking at my flip flops...wishing they had them on as they limped along. We had Millionaires Row tickets again for Day of the races at Churchill Downs. Another amazing dinner table right next to the window. I could literally get up from my table and walk straight outside on the most beautiful balcony with breath taking views of the races and the city. The vibe was Power. Strength. and Beauty. The horses were an amazing force. The views and breeze were intoxicating. There is nothing like the sounds at Churchill Downs. After a Mint Julep and the intoxication of the breeze, the pours seemed to get very generous and even stronger. Dinner was interestingly just ok. Lots of tables. We had a table with no one next to us...just the windows on one side and the open floor on the other. Just perfect. Churchill Downs is not about the food so expect it to be mediocre which did not impact this review. The only part of the experience that was off putting this year was the parking. It was so chaotic. You had employees directing people to the wrong area. Everyone wasted so much time dealing with parking. You really needed a drink by the time you made through the gates. The golf cart pick ups were great that took us to / from the gates to make up some time lost with the "who's on first" directions from the parking employees. The experience is ABSOLUTELY everything it is hyped up to be!!

Churchill downs the home of the Kentucky derby and one of the city of Lousiville's Crown Jewels when it comes to Tourism and fame. The most famous horse track in the world is located in the southend of Lousiville in a not so great area but it has been successful and has worked being out there for years. A who's who of celebrity fills this place every 1st Saturday In May. so the allure is still there despite the eyesores that Surrounds the grounds. Being born and raised in Lousiville people are often shocked to hear I've never attended the derby or oaks races. Just not my style. I'd rather go to a cookout and make bets from home or get into pick a horse pots. That does not mean I haven't or don't visit Churchill downs. I probably make 2 trips or so a year. The facility is beautiful and state of the art. Very massive and the track and infield is breathtaking. Has the aurora of being special for sure. The millionaires row which is accessible to non millionaires when it's not derby day is a nice place to view a race indoors or you can sit out in the stadium bleachers and catch a race. Overall this is a historic site that sat here long before I existed and will be here long after I exist. I only wish the state of Kentucky would get with the program and allow gambling and online gambling outside of just horse racing and Churchill downs. I'm sure the powers to be at Churchill agree as I'm sure they could build a massive and impressive casino.

We went to opening night and it was fantastic What a special night filled with horses fashion hats and lots more We were invited to a suite which had an open bar and delicious food l found a new drink I like The Lily and it's famous at the Derby It was a great night and Churchill Downs doesn't disappoint

What an amazing historic site!! Obviously a must visit went in Louisville or even in Kentucky it's worth making your way here. Stopped in on a Saturday afternoon to bet on some ponies. Of course had to try my first mint julep too! Placed some fun bets and left for the few dollars in my pocket. All the staff that I interacted with was very nice. The facility is laid out very well and you're able to get down to the rail on the side of the track as well as see the horses parade around before entering the track. Admission is cheap and you don't have to reserve a seat. Programs are free. Again this is a must stop! I will absolutely be back if ever passing through Kentucky.

I have been to many Thurby, Oaks, and one Derby at Churchhill Downs and to Downs After Dark many times as well! I have mainly experienced Oaks and Derby from the Infield but it is always a great time! There isn't really a view of the track from the Infield but there is a large screen to view the races. Everyone gets dressed up and wears pink on Oaks day and it's always fun! The Infield is a more relaxed way to see the races, you can bring food in, a blanket, or chairs to sit on and make a spot to hang for the day. There are betting windows in the infield, restrooms, bars, and food stands. The staff is always friendly. The food and drinks can be pricey, especially on derby week, so you may want to bring your own just make sure to check the website for rules! I have been to Millionaires Row for Thurby and a regular racing day and it was very nice, a bit outdated for decor in my opinion but the food is great and the staff and service are wonderful! There are betting windows in the room and a bar too. The Pink Julep is a favorite drink at Derby time! Downs After Dark is night racing at Churchill Downs, there are the usual races, betting windows, bars, and concession stands but also live music and food trucks making for a fun night. I did hear it was under construction now and will be finished by 2024, I'm looking forward to seeing the new additions and design.

I've seen the track on tv watching the occasional Kentucky Derby but it's never been more than a passing interest. However we were provided not just the opportunity to spend the day here but indoors on Millionaire Row, it was to hard to pass up. Our day here was not wasted. We ate from a delicious buffet and enjoyed a great day of racing - albeit sloppy & muddy. But we stayed warm! The gift shop was sparse - a little disappointing when we looked for something to take home. I'm sure that during the run up to the derby and shortly afterwards it's easier to find a keepsake. Overall a nice facility with a lot of history behind it.

Churchill downs provides an awesome Tour and experience. We did our best to stump our guide and he had all the answers. It's such a beautiful beautiful place with so many interesting facts of history. We were Brown away with how much we enjoyed our tour and seeing the track. We didn't have too much time to grab a bite in the cafe, but the drinks were great on a hot date. You get to keep the cute souvenir glass and.. you can walk around with your drink! Definitely want to come back and catch a race . I recommend this experience even if you aren't a fan. We knew very little about horse racing and loved the experience.

A visit to Louisville is not complete without a visit to Churchill Downs. We decided to take the tour which we did after our visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum (separate review). As you walk around the grounds you can almost feel the excitement that must be in the air during the Derby. Our tour guide shared some interesting information about the different races and history of the track. Only disappointment was there appeared to be another possibility unscheduled tour (tours are limited in size and timed) that started out right before ours. Because of this we didn't get to go near Winners circle or Millionaire row and instead entered the track area further down through a construction area and into bleacher seating. I'd like to take the tour again just for that experience but don't know if I'll again be in the area. Would still recommend visiting and taking the tour. 2021-163

Churchill Downs is definitely an icon and an experience to be had by all. Most people, they think of the Kentucky Derby, but I will tell you this- it is so much more than that. There is a great museum (haven't been in it in a few year though), a beautiful grounds, and plenty of racing throughout the year. Thankfully, their website has a full schedule of fun events, including race days, and even twilight races on Thursdays with live music and cheap beer. During these times, you can get tickets for really cheap. My most recent visit was for the Arlington Million, which just made its debut at the downs (since Arlington just got purchased by the Chicago Bears). My sister was cool enough to score a box (which seats 6), at like $20 a seat (the upcoming races I am going to are only $14 a seat). We got there right at the first race, and stayed til the end, which was a solid 7 hours of entertainment. The betting is always fun, and they give you a program to try to make your best educated guesses. There are many ways to place bets, but I tell you what, if you can do it right and are lucky, you can definitely win some coin (I got 2 solid winning tickets my family just looked at me like how did you do that). There are many places to sit, and many clubs as well, like the roses club, or the millionaires row club, and the winn club, but honestly, for me, I like the clubhouse row section. Yes, the other clubs you have air conditioned tables and the option for a buffet, but honestly, I am a degenerate gambler and I want to watch the race, not on a screen (while they do have viewing areas, I still prefer the other seats. Maybe one day I will change my mind). Those club seats are about 24-42$ per seat depending on club and race day. The website is pretty thorough on answering any questions you may have about dress code or parking, but I will tell you this, every staff member I dealt with from the gates to the club elevator to tellers to the food people, they were all so friendly. If you ever want to try something different and are in town not when the Derby is, I would suggest checking out some races, they are fun, even for the whole family! I am sure the derby is on a whole other level too. Fun Fact- the only time I saw the Rolling Stones in concert was here, and that was something else! Not to be missed!

Wow!!!! Put this on your bucket list!! We were here for meetings, but we will be back for races! What a beautiful facility steeped in history! The food and staff here were very professional and they had a nice tour we caught part of! First Mint Julep... yummy! I'm honestly so impressed with Louisville! I look forward to reviewing that crazy race day! We got to "place bets" on races and it was even exciting on the screen!

Had a great time walking through with my dad while we were in town. Stayed close by and they happened to have a showing of some of the horses, 1 of which was to play in the derby a week away. Unfortunately we didn't get to see any of the horse races here but enjoyed walking through, seeing the horses run and grabbed some cool tshirts.

My impromptu visit to Churchill Downs was definitely the highlight of my trip to Louisville. Free parking, kind staff, complimentary racing program, and clean premises (bathrooms included!). Minimum bet is $2. Get a $12 mint julep with a free souvenir class (normally $8 in the gift shop). The drink is strong and I'm a lightweight, so I only wish they served a non-alcoholic version!

I got a rare opportunity for a behind-the-scenes tour of Churchill Downs. The place fits 160,000, but on this day it was only me, a gardener, a maintenance worker, and my guide. A lifetime highlight! A few parts of the building are original, maybe going back to its founding in 1875 by the grandson of explorer William Clark, Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. He leased the land from his uncles, John and Henry Churchill, and named the track after them. I touched the bricks. I walked around Millionaires Row like I owned the place. Funny they call it that. What if a billionaire showed up?! Make a note of that, Churchill Downs. I suggest "The Paddock," where monied elites are enclosed and exercised. In May 2021, the holding company for CD (Nasdaq: CHDN) hired Katherine Armstrong as "VP of Culture." I would dig that job. Bet she puts restrictions on hat sizes. "Madam your hat is too small...GET OUT." haha

Louisville's crown jewel!!! Myself being a native of Louisville I may seem biased but let me say each and everytime I've attended a event at Churchill Downs it has been !!! Derby, Oaks, Dawn at the downs, the backside stables and the Derby Museum and more events. I promise you will want to come again as soon as possible. The museum is a must see!!! My last adventure there was early morning workouts of derby and oaks horses. We had a wonderful time. Event was free to all 5:30 to 10 during derby week, as well as free parking. Derby tickets are a challenge to purchase due to waiting list but don't let this deter you from trying. Scheduled racing season meets. Museum open year round. Open paid and some tickets included event special parking.

It was exhilarating! I was there on a random weekday. Parking was easy and free. I bought tickets to view the race at the ticket window . Once inside I immediately spied the gifts shop so I went in. I purchased a key chain memento and then I was on my way. Snack shop was open , but decided to continue upstairs. I placed a few bets with the cashier . I've never done it before , but the cashier was patient and explained the nature of the bets . One of my horses won! About 10 minutes before the race the horses and jockeys walk the stables. It was nice to see the horses up close. Great day at the races.

If the objective was to be like dicks laugh resort in the stakes on floor 4.... You're doing a wonderfully job

We went to Millionaire's Row for brunch and betting. Let's start with brunch. Churchill Downs packs you into a large room stuffed with too many tables and too many guests. The room is crowded to the point of uncomfortable. Thankfully, the air conditioning can handle the crowd. The buffet lunch. A narrow selection, but everything was well prepared. There are 3 serving stations, with each serving the same food. Lemon chicken. Pulled pork. Mac & Cheese. Roasted potatoes. Green beans. And 3 variations of salad. Unfortunately, served with a limited choice of high fat creamy dressings. No oil & vinegar. No balsamic. No low fat Italian. Maybe that's why the room is so crowded. There's also a table with deserts. Cookies. Derby Pie. Lemon squares. Finally, the betting. There are screens everywhere. If you don't want to leave your seat to watch, you can follow on the local screens. You don't even have to get up yo place a bet. Just use the Twin Spires app to place your bet. It's about $45 p/p. My son in law paid. And I win about $35 on betting. I hit the daily double

If you ever have a chance to see Churchill Downs for yourself I highly suggest it. It is a historical landmark in Louisville. The twin spires literally evoke a feeling of possibility within me. Some where deep I feel like dreams can come true. Though I have never walked through the Churchill Downs museum, know that there is one there and I'm sure it is done wonderfully. I always go to gawk in awe of the ponies (really they are thoroughbreds). They are magnificent, majestic, and powerful. Please realize that there are many other races than the first one in May (The Kentucky Derby). During the off times you are more free to roam around and even get close to the track. I highly suggest making your way to the track and feeling the thunder of the horses hooves as they race by. I will never forget the first time I got to feel that. You can visit, take in a race, and not bet, that is not how I choose to do it, but you can. I like to bet the ponies from time to time. You can do it from the app or get the more authentic feel of it going to a betting window. If you are heading to the window for the first time please take a moment to google how to place a bet so you know what to say to the worker at the betting window. They work hard and it would just be kind of you, helping make their day a little easier I wish you all the best and I hope you love Churchill Downs as much as I do!

I thought millionaires dined on elegant and tasty fine food dishes. Not so on millionaires row at Churchill Downs. For $200, that includes tip, you and your significant other are fed with the worst food I've ever had, bar none. Canned, or frozen vegetables, stale bread, I can't even keep going and waste my time.If you must go to the races at the "Downs," here's a way to save money to bet. Park at the track, it's free, pay at the club house, fairly reasonable, approach any garbage can, root through can, find some discarded food, I think that's what Churchill does, believe me it will as good as anything you get on millionaires row, and now you have an extra $200 to bet.

I've been to Churchill Downs a number of times, all on Derby Day, and always on the infield. Those have always been great times that I may or may not remember, but that's not what this review is about. This review is for a recent visit to take the walking tour, see the museum, and visit the gift shop. Signing up for the tour is easy. This was Saturday afternoon and the place wasn't too busy. We walked right in, did our COVID duties, and within ten minutes we were signed up for the tour. As I understand the Museum is fairly new (or fairly renovated, I'm not sure), but once you enter the door the inside is beautiful, with the gift shop (conveniently) dead ahead, the tour counter to the right, the museum entrance to the left. It's kinda cool that they have racing chute on your way into the museum hallway. You don't realize just how big they are until you see them up close. We had a few minutes to browse the museum before our tour started so we browsed around the museum a bit, then at 12:30 on the dot Mike (our tour guide) gathered us up and our tour started. Having only been to Churchill Downs on Derby Day, and then only on the Infield, it was nice to be able to walk around without being pushed and shoved and ignored and having a drink spilled on you. Mike showed us the placards for all of the Derby winner, the gold-lettered Triple Crown winner's placards, and gave us a lot of interesting facts and tidbits as we walked around the grandstand area. It showed that Mike loved Derby and his knowledge of the track, its history, and of the horses was Top Notch. Our next stop was the track, amongst all the box seats that Jim would never, ever, EVER be able to afford. It was nice to actually SEE the track (you don't see the track from the Infield at all...nor a horse, for that matter. ) Where we were standing afforded a pretty good view of the main stretch, the finish line, and the Winner's Circle. While I can see why people pay the money for those seats, I don't see me ever sitting in one of those $eat$ (that's supposed to be "seats" with dollar signs for the "S"s. I don't think that played out the way I wanted it to.) After our walking tour we were free to check out the museum and to see the movie. The movie theater was shaped (as you might expect) like a race track. The swivel seats were very Socially Distancing spaced, and this appeared to be the center point of the museum. Working in the Audio/Video world as I do, it was looking forward to the movie, and in the end I was VERY impressed. The move was an in-the-round experience that utilized the entire screen with varying focus points, the audio was outstanding, and the movement and flow of the film were smooth and told each element of the film perfectly. Sitting there spinning around to focus on the next part of the story was part of the fun. It was a very immersive experience, and I can't wait to visit to see it again. After the movie we moved out to look at the rest of the museum. It's a well organized museum with informative displays and a lot of great historical artifacts. The audio components for some of the exhibits are disabled because of COVID, but there's still plenty to learn by reading what's on the display. I 100%, completely recommend this tour. Attending Derby as a spectator is a lot of fun and is what Derby is all about, but this little behind-the-scenes outing is a great way to see Churchill Downs and appreciate what a beautiful facility it really is.

We went for Thanksgiving as it was the perfect place to meet in the middle for our family. Going to the races at Churchill Downs was a fun way to celebrate the holiday, and the thanksgiving buffet was delicious - plus, we didn't have to do dishes afterwards! The staff were so friendly, and while there were large sections blocked off for construction, the areas open to guests were well maintained. I struggled to figure out how to use the betting app, but even without being able to bet on the races, I had a great time cheering on the horses throughout the afternoon.

Churchill Downs is home of the Kentucky Dery, the oldest continuously held sporting event in America, for 3-year-old thoroughbred horses. Aristides, owned by H.P. McGrath and ridden by black jockey Oliver Lewis, won the first Derby in 1875. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr, grandson of explorer William Clark, named and modeled the Kentucky Derby after the English Epson Derby. The track is named for John and Henry Churchill, who leased 80 acres of land to their nephew, Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr.. Clark was president of the Louisville Jockey Club and Driving Park Association, which formed in 1875. His father-in-law, Richard Ten Broeck, was an accomplished horse breeder and trainer, and introduced Clark to horse racing, attending the English Derby at Epsom Downs outside London. Churchill Downs filled a void in Louisville left by the closing of Oakland and Woodlawn, two earlier race courses. The then-rural location was along Louisville and Nashville Railroad tracks, allowing for easy transport of horses. The twin spires atop the grandstands are the most recognizable architectural feature of Churchill Downs and are used as a symbol of the track and the Derby. They were designed by architect Joseph Dominic Baldez and built in 1895. The facility includes the Kentucky Derby Museum that is well worth a visit and includes a tour of the racepark. [Review 13494 overall, 813 of 2020.]

I recently did the walking tour at Churchill Downs when the track was completely empty so it was a great time to take in the history and just explore without throngs of people in the way. I cannot wait for the day that I come to a Kentucky Derby in the midst of all the craziness that it is, place bets on horses, and enjoy a mint julep. I also cannot wait to wear a colorful summer suit and hat with my family! Just like the bourbon, Churchill Downs represents the story of American culture and I encourage everyone to appreciate everything this race track has to offer. I'll be back!

This was very cool to visit even though it was not race time. Actually, I can't imagine over 100,000 people crammed in to this wonderful icon of Louisville. So when there isn't a race they have a tour allowing you to go through a museum which is nicely fitted with memorabilia you will be familiar with if you've been watching the derby for as many years I have. There's a gift shop which is quite pricey and expected but cool items for kids or friends or souvenirs for whoever you like, clothes, even a special bourbon if I recall. But the next best was the movie. There's a large arena shaped area with a surround screen that a story is told of a Day in the life of a race starting with the horse and the trainer and the owners and then the glitz, the fantastic horses, the excitement the money all for 2 minutes! So there's plenty of places to drink mint julep's and get food hobnob areas that I can see myself in one day enjoying the race. The tour through the entire grounds was very informative, lots of history, just a spectacular tour and visit to win the bar country's finest race tracks. I think tickets were $15-$17 apiece and well worth it. Highly recommend!

Went on a whim with bought tickets in hand, a full tank of gas in a company cars with unlimited miles and an eagerness to check a bucket list item off the list. I have always wanted to watch a race once and I made it here before I was white haired and slow to amble. It's so much bigger of an event than I had imagined, lots of people came donned in their race day wear, big hats aloft on perfectly coiffed heads. Men dressed in shorts to seer sucker suits. Many mint juleps were imbibed this day, commemorative glasses sold with the juleps. The stands are full of people that are strangers at the start but feel like warm friends by the end after loud cheers and rants for their winning horse. We didn't have a winning horse but left with a warm memory of the Adrenalin rush of watching these fantastic and regal run like the adroit animal athlete they can be. Best of all I traded up my small sun bonnet for this fabulous Churchill downs worthy red race day hat. It's still sitting proudly on my shelf as a constant reminder of another bucket list item neatly checked off the list.

You are a disgrace. Uncharged for VIP, and you sell out of food? You should be ashamed of yourself! No wonder why people pass out in every direction you look. No accessible water, and in "VIP" area, guess what... "sorry folks, we are out of hot dogs" (by the way is the only option) in GA VIP. You are going to pay $8 for water if you want to hydrate from the $14 Miller Lite beers. This place only accommodates the rich. Don't get fooled. They are trying to bleed every dollar the can get!

Besides going for my 2x IM in Louisville. Churchill Downs the Mecca of thoroughbred racing and the crown jewel of the Triple Crown. It equivalent of going to KONA Ironman World Championship. I was excited!! I wanted to suck up all the history of Churchill Downs so I booked tour. They have different price structured tours. I went with the golf cart think call it your. It middle price your. If going for the first time would highly recommend and worth the extra money. Not only is the tour longer, you get to see so much more of Churchill Downs, and even get lunch. My tour guide was awesome. I wish could remember her name. She was the nicest, friendly, and define best in southern hospitality. Her knowledge of thoroughbred racing, all the historical facts, and she been a lifetime residence of Louisville. Mahalos!! She was the one told me about Wagners Pharmacy for breakfast or lunch. She really took the time to get to know everyone on the tour. There limit on this tour people small we had seven so really get personnel experience. Tour runs from 8-12. I got see pretty much the whole grounds even beyond the track. Blown away size and feel like another world outside spectacle see on Derby day and on tv. So much more but need experience in person. History running Derby for over 100 years is mind blowing and the history behind appreciate every detail every stop along the tour! Bad ass!!!

So it's a cool experience - we want to come back for the actual Derby, this was a "scope it out trip"! Service and the event staff are all over-the-top friendly, in a good way. We felt welcomed by everyone. Gluten free? I think you should pack snacks and just drink ‍. We got tickets to the Millionaires Row Sunday brunch and here's the menu we found today. - salads with croutons - some kind of a cold veggie blend with carrots, Peas and Lima beans, - red potatoes steamed or boiled , quartered, a few collard greens tossed in - corn with a few green beans tossed in (for color?) - Mac and cheese - chicken pot pie - shredded pork - whole bunch of baked goods that just can't/don't exist for me unfortunately. It was an smh food experience for $40-50 each. But hey, I got a mint julep in a glass I get to keep, a fun reason to actually eat/drink some sugar. Look, maybe I'm biased, but I hear "millionaires" and "brunch" think there should be asparagus, avocado or at least bacon! (Lol bougie i know) We toured the museum, the grounds, etc. it's beautiful and I'll be excited to see this place filled up! As for the races, we watched a few from up top and then went to the ground level for a few. These horses are beautiful and it's so cool to hear the pounding of their hooves as they run past. I'm not a betting person, I don't understand all of it, rather just drink the bourbon and watch the people. It's a interesting people-watching experience. Oh and this is random, there are people smoking everywhere, it felt like a college bar. Wash your hair, wash your jacket, take your allergy meds. Lol.

While on a visit to Louisville, we decided to check out Churchill Downs. Because drinking a mint julep at Churchill Downs seemed like the thing to do. We took a tour, which begins with an interesting look at the history of Churchill Downs (it's a video, but you sit in the middle of the room and the screens surround you...makes you feel a bit like you're in the middle of the track as horses race by). Then you head out to see the stands, grounds, and racetrack (with some history and fun facts delivered along the way). We ended our tour near the cafe, where we decided to go to partake in a mint julep and some derby pie. Mint juleps aren't really my thing (though as far as mint juleps go, it was definitely well made), but that derby pie? Whoa. Amazing. They also have a gift shop with a variety of souvenirs where I bought the obligatory Kentucky Derby coffee cup. Having watched the Kentucky Derby (on TV) and growing up hearing about Churchill Downs, it's pretty dang cool to see and hear a bit more about it in person. Get to it!

You can't really go wrong with Churchill Downs I've lived in Louisville and the surrounding area mine tire life and I mean this brings global nationwide phenomenon attention all on our city here so you know we go there kind of gambling right now and then derby is huge oaks huge so you got it enjoy it

I went to Churchill Downs for Downs After Dark, and I enjoyed myself! I've not been to many racetracks, and I'm uncertain what the standard for these environments is. The track itself is beautiful, and being at Churchill Downs is exciting due to its history! The service was excellent! I also enjoyed my Moscow Mules. I don't recall what food I ate; however, my boyfriend and I felt the food was lacking. This would not keep me from returning, however. But I do feel the experience could be made more enjoyable if the cuisine was improved.

I can't help it! I could not care less about gambling but something about being a local, being mesmerized by horse history, and growing up going to the races with my dad, I just love everything about Churchill Downs! All walks of life have a place here. If you want to get general admission and just hang out, it's good. If you are more affluent and you want to spend the money for oaks and Derby boxes, they have that too. Of course, you can always bet on horse races! Take the tome to do a tour and visit the museum!