Kentucky Derby Museum

Very cool place! Fun to walk around and learn the derby history. Movie was great but take a guided tour if you can - it was so much more informative and gets you right to the track (closest you’ll probably ever get to the finish line, haha) We stopped here to burn some time after a flight delay. The place didn’t disappoint. Entry for adults was $22/pp.

Tour guide absolutely knew ball. Worth the price tbh, was very eye opening for a horse racing casual. Unfortunately the place was all snowy so we couldn't see the track as well but still super super cool 🔥

What a wonderful day we enjoyed at The Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs! We purchased tickets in advance, and when we arrived at the Museum, it was suggested by staff that we consider taking the additional Barn and Backside Tour. It was advice we are delighted that we heeded! Following the initial movie, our introductory tour guide was great; he did a great job of giving us an excellent overview of the rich history and legacy of both Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. I cannot recall his name, but he was a wonderful public speaker, able to give our group of approximately 15-20 people detailed information as we looked out to the track from the grandstand. We followed that up with the Barn and Backside tram tour, with only eight passengers and a tour guide, Diane, who led us with her knowledge and expertise, as well as her great communication and sense of humor. We were able to meet "Harley" the beloved resident "pony" and his companion, "Ari," the miniature horse. We saw the barns, quite a few horses in the barns, the lodging, the starting gate used only for the Kentucky Derby, the track, and we even watched two live races. The Starter of the races that day stopped to talk with us and answer questions. After finishing a nice lunch in the cafe, we met "Johnny Bourbon," the bartender, who shared his favorite bourbon brands with us and even gave us an autographed magazine as a souvenir. We spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the Kentucky Derby Museum, with incredibly well designed displays, video clips, and imagery that made the history of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby come alive for us. If you are in Louisville don't miss the Kentucky Derby Museum!

Great museum. Even better Barn and Backside Tour. Worth the extra few dollars. Ally, our your guide, was knowledgeable extremely enthusiastic with great sense of humor. Really felt like we came away knowing much more about thoroughbred racing and the traditions of Churchhill Downs. Don't miss.

Great way to learn about the history of the Kentucky Derby and see a lot of memorabilia. Our tour guide was fantastic. Lots of cool displays. They did have a lot of private events going on so some areas were closed. Still, worth the trip!

The museum is fantastic. I recommend taking an early tour of the track. The horses usually work out between 6-10 am. It is amazing to see the size difference between 2 year old and 3 year old. The history of the track and horses, jockeys and trainers is fun. Enjoy a mint julip or old fashioned in the cafeteria bar.

Takes 2-3 hours to do all the things. There is a children's tour component with stops around the museum for them to complete an activity. Try your luck at a simulated horse race against a few friends. 15 minute historical movie is in a panoramic theater. Sign up for the track tour at entrance. Two floors of exhibits, a cafe near the stables, and parking was free on our visit. Midweek is a good time to go in the spring for less crowds. Otherwise, any time.

Wow so much history here. Great tour with our guide taking us around and out to the track. Lots to see with all the displays of trophies and memories of past Jockies and owners. The people who helped make Churchill Downs the best horse track ever. We had lunch in the cafe and got to see horses out back of the cafe. It was a good day spent visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum. The run for the Roses.

American Thoroughbred horse racing museum [Louisville KY] The Kentucky Derby Museum was something I did not want to miss while in Louisville. We almost did not make it but we were able to experience the last hour which also got us in the last tour at Churchill Downs. The museum is two floors of interactive exhibits celebrating the history and excitement of the Kentucky Derby. We watched "The Greatest Race," at The Great Hall... this was an immersive film that surrounded the viewers with this very cool 360° 18-minute media experience that featured a heart-pounding thrill of Derby Day. Made my heart race and emotions soar watching this film. The chairs swivel so you are able to turn and watch from every direction. It was exciting seeing the different fashion they wore and watch the sights, sounds, and spirit of the Kentucky Derby like never before. The first floor also had some fashion exhibits and hats, wow, the display of hats were fun to see. This was a powerful tribute to the speed, pageantry, and magic of the most legendary two minutes in sports. I have mad respect for these horses. The Great Hall is the meeting place for the Guided Track Visit of Churchill Downs as well. The Guided Track Visit of Churchill Downs Racetrack is approximately 25 minutes. Our tour guide took us railside at America's most famous Thoroughbred track. We learned interesting information about Churchill Downs along the way. The Winner's Circle on the first floor as you enter the museum featured "Sovereignty" winner of the 2025 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Second floor highlighted "Secretariat" (aka Big Red) a Thoroughbred racehorse and winner of U.S. Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1973. I became such a fan... I told my hubby I wanted to attend a Kentucky Derby one day and wear a fancy hat ツ Review #3908

We stopped in here after our tour of Churchill Downs. The museum contained a lot of artifacts and knowledge. There was even a role playing track betting area! I know I wanted to get something for my mom that was Secretariat related and something for myself that was Churchill Downs related. As we browsed the store, an associate was very friendly and offering to assist, which we did not need assistance. There is everything in this store, even bourbons! The bourbons seemed overpriced so we did not indulge. I found a shot glass I liked for my collection and found a couple of Secretariat items for my mom. Finally, I viewed the Derby hats and found perfect green hat that was not flashy or Gordy for my taste. Even better, it was on sale! I plan to wear it very year on Derby day, no matter where I am!

We had the chance to visit the Churchill Downs Kentucky Derby Museum last night with Industrial Kiln and Dryer group, and it was an incredible experience. Having the entire facility to ourselves made it feel exclusive, and there was so much to take in, tons of memorabilia that really brought the history of the Derby to life. The evening included a video presentation that wrapped around the ceiling, which was impressive and gave you the feeling of being right in the middle of the action. Dinner was excellent, fresh salad, perfectly cooked salmon, and tender braised short ribs. Everything was well-prepared and flavorful. The staff went above and beyond to make the night interactive and fun. They gave us fake money and a horse race schedule, then let us place "bets" on races while watching them on TV. It was a great way to add some excitement and friendly competition to the evening. Overall, it was a very fun and memorable experience. Between the rich history, great food, and engaging staff, I'd recommend the Kentucky Derby Museum to anyone visiting Louisville.

Attended the Derby in December celebration which included a lifetime achievement award presentation to award winning jockey Pat Day. It was a fantastic event. Museum was open to the public with free admission. Ample free parking. Great exhibits and coffee and donuts were provided. The launch of the 2026 derby pin and poster were also celebrated. It is always fun and informative at the museum and yesterday was just such a great celebration of a wonderful man, Pat Day who has graced the racing workd with his presence. A true Louisville gem. Thanks for a great community event Churchill Downs Derby Museum

What a beautiful venue! I hadn't been to the Kentucky Derby Museum in years, and wow, has it been upgraded! There are bright open spaces, several good exhibits, a 360 degree movie and a well-informed, well-presented tour. My companion was my significant other, a former jockey. He said it brought back lots of memories for him to see the starting gates, jockey silks, horse 'accessories', etc. There are fun fashion exhibits too, all tastefully presented, My two favorite exhibits were the D.Wayne Lukas rooms and the stories and photos about famed jockey Willie Shoemaker. I had never known his real name was Billie Lee. Fun bits of Louisville and horse racing history - I highly recommend!

We did a tour of the grounds and everything in between and was very impressed. Our tour guide (Shawn I think? He has long hair!) was very nice, funny and informative with everything. I would recommend the tour for sure! Parking: On site Restrooms: Located in the museum area, but not available once you go on the tour, they have to come back to the building as the regular restrooms are locked.

Wowza!! I never wrote a review for our visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum from a few years ago. I posted the photos a couple of years ago, but never posted a review. Based on my limited memory, here are some notes of what I remember. It was Time well spent! We got to the museum early, and we enjoyed every minute there. We purchased a tour of Churchill Downs. It was worth every penny!! Highly recommend doing the guided tour!! Make sure to check out the many informative and educational exhibits at the museum. So much to learn and appreciate! I remember that there was an interactive racing game which Wifey and I played. She beat me twice in that horse race!! We also enjoyed a really good lunch meal at the cafe which I will share more about on their Yelp page. All in all, we had an AMAZING time at the Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs!! It was so great to see the track where the magic of the Kentucky Derby takes place! I'd be more than happy to return here in the future!!

Super neat place to check out the history of horse racing and why it's so popular. They have a lot of history about all the horses you know and some you might not and they have an amazing cafeteria with reasonably priced good hot foods. Free parking and if you don't want to pay you can still walk around the gift shop and all around the ground.

A very nice tour of an iconic venue. The museum itself is great a lot of stuff you thought you knew but didn't. Secretariat exhibit was wonderful. The tour was nice too we went on the track and in the owners section right by the track. They are already preparing for the Derby in about a month. Mark & Nancy.

This was the perfect place to spend a few hours of my afternoon outside of the races at Churchill Downs. It was so interesting to learn more of the history of the races and even try out some interactive exhibits like the horse racing simulator! At this museum you can do self guided or guided tours, but because we were pressed for time we opted for self guided. At the end of your walkthrough you're dropped off in the gift shop where you can buy fascinators and other Kentucky Derby merch! If you're someone who likes to learn more about where you're visiting, I'd recommend checking this out!

Very well put together with more information than you even considered about the history of the derby to include jockeys and horses and weather. We spent quite a bit of time here just taking it all in and we all found it super duper interesting. The staff were all helpful and kind. The restrooms were clean. Currently there was no place to eat and drink and that would be fun if there were a little bar deli inside!

We had a fantastic time at the museum! We did the guided walking tour (included with admission) and our guide, Keyana, was AMAZING! They were incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole trip enjoyable. The film (also included with admission) was so well done - we felt like we were on the track! And of course, no visit would be complete without a mint julep (and you even get to keep the collectible cup!). Highly recommend. We spent hours here without even realizing it!

This is almost a must do if you are in the Louisville area. It is one of the things that Louisville is notable for. If you don't know, it's one, if not the most important, horse races in the country. If that's your thing, this is a stop you have to make when you are here. I honestly came here on whim the day I visited and ended up being in the last group of the day. I don't know how I managed that, but I was fortunate enough to make my way here. When I entered I was informed at the tight timetable I would be sticking to and the highlights I should try to squeeze in before the actual tour started for the racetrack. I made my inside and zoomed through the exhibit areas and hit the highlights. There is a lot to see here, so I would suggest not putzing around like I did for the day and make the time to see as much as you can and take it all in. I started by entering the museum through the gates. This museum takes you through the history of the derby as a whole. There are exhibits dedicated to the horse, jockey's, track, and overall horseracing. Make sure to look everyway that you can, use the map to get yourself to an exhibit area. There are many areas in here where you can have a photo op and capture a moment for yourself. I actually had the opportunity here to speak with a fellow visitor. I came to one of the areas where you can take a photo and asked if she wanted me to take a photo for her. She was so pleased by this and we got to chatting and exchanged stories about our travel. She was so nice and gave me tips on what and how to see places. I am so glad I passed paths with her. Once we say the lights dim like an intermission, that meant to go to the area where everyone meets before the outside tour starts. Here you are treated to a video presentation that is a 360 viewing experience. It makes you feel like you are in the middle of the racetrack and if you are lucky enough to have a seat, use your seat to rotate with the show. Once the show ends, you will be directed to follow a tour guide and be taken outside to tour the grounds. I'll explain more of that in my next review. Outside the building you get a better view of the building that holds the museum before going further.

I totally recommend visiting this museum when visiting Louisville, KY. It's a grand place and there's so much to do. Our general admission came with a video and tour of the tracks. This was an amazing place and our tour guide Douglas was fantastic and gave us a wonderful history of the Downs. Great prices only $20 per adult. And you must get a mint julep in the cafeteria that comes with a free souvenir glass. Great place.

Kentucky Derby Museum was absolutely adorable, and to see the tour of the Horse Track in person was pretty awesome. The Tour Guide did an excellent job. This museum gives you all the historical facts that gives you a deeper understanding of the Derby all around. The only disappointment I experienced was the famous Bourbon Bar was not open during my visit.

We bought our Kentucky Derby Museum tickets online which was easy and only $20 per person. Doing this beforehand made our arrival and check in process super smooth and quick. The Kentucky Derby film shown in the Great Hall really set the tone for our visit. The film is nicely done and presented on a track shaped screen. Please note there is an ideal side of the theatre to sit on to enjoy the film!! The side that is furthest from the lobby/ front desk is the side to be on! Next, our guided tour was led by Douglas, an informative individual. Douglas knew a plethora of information and performed an impressive imitation of the bugle call! The museum has plenty of interactive and educational components. Two of our favorite interactive activities were the horse racing simulator and mock betting station. There were sections on history, fashion, and prominent figures to read up on. We spent about an hour and a half taking it all in. Such a cool museum, I can't wait to return to attend the derby!!!

A must see for horse racing fans when in Louisville. You can book your tickets online or in person with free parking around Churchill Downs. Upon entering, check in was a breeze and was griven an itinerary with a map upon arrival. Got to see a short film as well as a complimentary tour to the tracks of the race course. There was so many historic trophies and memorabilia. It has something for all ages and interests with an interactive video game for the children and fashion exhibits for the casual fans..the Kentucky Derby Museum is a great experience overall and worth the price of admission, which is a fair price. Probably takes 2-3 hours to explore the entire museum. Check it out!

Great place for any horse lover! Two parts to see here, 1. the museum, 2. The track and tour. Various artifacts and historical pieces to see in the museum. Well laid out and well organized! Free track tours are available throughout the day. Starting point is the theater room where an awesome movie is played. A must stop spot!

While I have no interest in sports or horse racing, a visit to Louisville is not complete without a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. I had very basic knowledge (ie. nearly none) of the Kentucky Derby and there is so much I learned during my visit, which included a 15 minute movie and a 25 minute tour of the Churchill Downs track (we were lucky enough to see a few horses being exercised, as well as a retired horse at the stable). Inside there were various exhibits about all aspects of horse racing and the Kentucky Derby -- exhibits about jockeys, horseshoes, the winners over the years, and so much more. And of course there was an exhibit about Secretariat, the greatest racehorse in history. (Fun fact: a racehorse's heart weighs about 10 pounds; Secretariat's weighed a whopping 22 pounds, which is what gave him such an advantage over other horses.) A fascinating museum, even if you're not interested in horse racing. Tip: if you're going to buy something from the gift shop, check in on Yelp for 10% off your purchase. I splurged and bought a fascinator (which was not cheap!) so the discount was much appreciated. [Yelp collections: Louisville/Indianapolis 2023; Louisville, KY 2023; Museums and Art Galleries]

What an amazing place! Whether you like horse racing or nice. Loved the museum and tour. Totally worth it to come here. Enjoyed the exhibits on jockeys too.

Great place to shop for derby souvenirs, cool clothing, bourbon, glasses. It is the biggest museum store I've ever seen. Worth the visit. A bit too pricy for my personal budget, but I bought a beautiful Derby shirt.

Great museum and interesting facts and history. Some hands on for kids. Nice tour to see Churchill downs.

When in KY, you go learn a bit about the Derby lol! Seriously, my friend knew a bit about the derby and recommended coming here while we were in town. I know nothing about the derby or horse racing but am up for an adventure so we went. By the time we left I felt educated and fulfilled in a good way. It was a Saturday but very low key. No big crowds while we were there. There are a few options - we chose the $20 museum and general tour. It was worth the $$$! You start by watching and 18 min video on the Derby and what a day at the derby looks like. The video is shown on a 360 degree screen that is very cool. I really enjoyed the movie! Then you go on the general tour with your guide who narrates. You get to do down to the track, walk through the inner race area and learn a lot about the racing and the derby. Our guide was EXCELLENT! He encouraged a lot of questions, shared facts and a few stories and got us down to the track area in time to see a race go by! I loved that! Also, that is not a "given" like you may think... races only happen every 28 minutes, the tour was about 20 minutes so he did some planning on that. Following the tour we toured the museum on our own. There is A LOT to see and learn in the museum. There are 2 levels and areas covering everything from horses, jockeys, history, clothing, betting, caretakers, etc. If it has ANYTHING to do with horse racing, they have a section on it lol. They also included a section on the building as well. I really liked that they had interactive stations, reading stations, video stations, etc. So no matter how you like to engage there is something for everyone. If you are in Louisville, you must stop here and take the quick tour! It's worth the money (and if you follow my reviews, you know I'm frugal lol).

Visiting a friend that has lived in Kentucky all her life and she has never visited the Museum. Coming from California I was excited to actually visit the place where Secretariat won. We love the movie and the inspiring story. Reservations made and paid for online a week prior to our visit. Parking is free in the lot right next to Churchill Downs and there's a 2 minute walk to the Museum entrance. We were nicely welcomed and given a map then pointed in the direction of the theater. The tour begins with a 20 minute amazing video. Our docent then gathered us up and led us out to the area where she began with the history of the derby which was very interesting and entertaining. She answered the couple of questions from guests and then led us to the track for more information. Wow! We were right on the track where the derby is run. So cool. After this talk we were invited to visit the two horses in the barn, the gift shop, the cafe, and then of course the museum.

So many of us enjoyed the free day of admission offered at the Kentucky Derby Museum on Wednesday, December 6th, marking the 150 days until the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. I hope similar events are offered in the future, especially to local "act like a tourist in your hometown" patrons. I had not visited the Museum in several years and reside in Indiana, and this event prompted me and several friends to check it out. I'm so glad I did because I had not realized how much the Museum had changed with so many high quality exhibits and tour options. I now plan to return during the upcoming holiday season to treat some out of town guests. I want them to get a sampling of what the Derby is all about and potentially entice some to return in May for the big event. I was especially impressed with the 360 degree movie The Greatest Race, which was absolutely spectacular. The rotating stools and entire presentation was amazing and an incomparable experience. I could have left the Museum following just that viewing and felt fairly educated as to why the Derby is considered to be such a big deal. However, I then wandered around the first floor and viewed so many interesting exhibits, but I have to admit I probably saw less than half of what was on display due to only having 2 hours to enjoy it. I didn't even get to visit the second floor due to being limited on time, so I plan to return and explore at my leisure. I also received a brief trackside tour during my visit and our guide was terrific. She even sang a portion of My Old Kentucky Home, which was fantastic. We saw the dirt track, the rail, and the bleachers up close. We saw the twin spires, turf track, finish line, quarter mile posts, winner's circle, and bugler's pagoda within view and for many photo ops. I was in a tour group of approximately 30 people and only 3 of us were local, some having traveled quite a distance, which made an impression on me as to how well known the Derby is and that I take it a bit for granted due to it being in my backyard. If anyone from the Museum reads this -- thank you for offering this event. I enjoyed the samples of Derby Pie and adult beverages, brochures, hat purveyors, and interaction with the docent presenting several historical items for closer personal viewing. I am also including several pictures from my brief visit, but I wanted to explain that several include the current expansion construction project going on at Churchill Downs. So, there are the expected growing pains with parking and detours and noise, but still worthy of a visit nonetheless.

We did the general admission ticket so we could see the Churchill Downs track. They show you a very impressive movie in the hall before you go see the track. The movie is 20 minutes long. Great experience overall! The track is huge and must see. It's currently as I write this under construction outside in the front. They are redoing the Paddock area. It will be done next year for the Kentucky Derby and from the photo they have out it's going to be beautiful. The staff is awesome and very intelligent on the history of the grounds. Quite the learning experience.

This museum is totally worth going to visit with all the history at the longest running sport in our nation since 1875, the first Kentucky Derby was done here at Churchill Downs. The tour guide gave an excellent oration of so much history of thoroughbreds, Churchill Downs, and even some of Louisville. Highly recommend this tour if you get the chance when in Louisville.

I've been a horse racing fan since I was a child. Visiting Churchill Downs was an experience I looked forward to for decades. The tour/museum exceeded my high expectations. The "Ultimate Churchill Downs Tour" was outstanding. On a scale of 1-10, it was an 11. Group of seven visitors led by a great tour guide - Stan. Stan was extremely knowledgeable about horse racing and Churchill Downs. His knowledge was genuine, not reading off a card or a script used by tour guides. His passion for the sport and for Churchill helped make the tour so good. Stan was patient with the group allowing for all the pictures we wanted. A golf cart was used moving from place to place, but we got out often at various locations. The tour took over 3 hours. This tour included standing at the rail watching morning workouts, a trip to the infield, a backstretch tour which included seeing the Kentucky Derby starting gate and barns. Also on the backstretch tour the group got to watch a horse receive new shoes, everyone got to feed a horse a peppermint, and we watched more workouts for from the backstretch. The tour concluded with a paddock and grandstand tour including millionaire's row. This tour was expensive but worth every penny - highly recommend. The Derby museum, while small was also very nice. Some trips down memory lane to past derbies and key figures associated with the most exciting two minutes in sports. This was a day I will never forget and I cannot recommend the tour and museum enough!

We stopped at the museum as part of our City Taste bus tour. We had about an hour at the museum and also took the "guided track visit" tour. Honestly this might have been the worst tour I've ever been on. The group was massive and the guide spoke like a robot so it was impossible to hear from the back. The tour leaves from the museum, walks to the general admission seating area at the track, the tour guide mumbles on about a few things, and then you walk back to the museum. I grew up going to the Del Mar races every summer and had always pictured Churchill Downs as this epic place. And I'm sure it is if you're there on Derby day, but on a random Monday afternoon in March with a tour like this, it's pretty anticlimactic. My advice would be to skip the tour, snap a photo outside the front, and wait for the opportunity to visit on a race day. This would have been a one-star experience except that the video they show in the museum, "The Greatest Race" was FANTASTIC.

Did the tour and the museum while on a quick visit to Louisville. Opted for the "General Admission" tour which included a short movie/video, access to the museum and then a walk through the back operations area to the track. the movie provided a lot of good insight and past history of the Kentucky Derby that i had never heard before. The museum was so full of trophy's, photos and memorabilia that another visit will be in order! So much to see. We were also there on a race day and while on the tour, our amazing tour guide was able to get us out to the track quickly to see a race! Maybe one day will make it the the actual Derby Day and place a few bets! Great value for the $20 that included the museum, movie and tour. Parking was close by and free.

Having never been to the Kentucky Derby, I was interested in learning about the tradition and event. The museum was well curated and there is so much history behind the annual event. There was an option to go on a tour of Churchill Down, so naturally we opted to do that and got to see the field, the stands and millionaire's row/club. If you have time and want to see it first hand, I'd recommend visiting the museum and Churchill Downs.

We stopped by it wasn't on our list of things to do it was only a pass by experience but check us out by there horse staue how cool. We didnt go in there was construction in the parking lot. We didn't understand where to park or anything. We was pressed for time and the tour already started so we didnt go in. Im sure it would have been a wonderful experience if we only had time and knew our car would be ok where we parked it.

Amazing day touring the Museum and Churchill Downs! The day we were there was a very hot, humid day, thankful we got around on a golf cart type vehicle! There was a total of 7 people on the tour, which was really great... the cart only accommodates 8 people!! Stan, our guide, was very knowledgeable and personable. He was always offering to take pictures of us. He first took us out to the track to watch the riders exercise the horses. He explained so much about the day to day workings of the track, the history and the do's and dont's when visiting. He was never "over the top" like some tour guides are. We experienced visiting the stables and the backside of the track, saw the Derby starting gate (only used for the derby race), my son spotted premier trainer Steve Asmusson sitting watching his horses exercise and asked if he could get a selfie.... He said yes! We got to feed one of the horses a peppermint, too and saw one getting "new shoes"! We then saw the new paddock area, millionaires row, the twin spires up close and so much more. The museum itself was nice to see and to learn more. There is a small cafe on premise at which we had a light lunch. Highly recommend this tour!

This was a great rainy day activity. Neat little treasure full of history and good info. The guided tour into the derby track was awesome - and I would love to hear more about the community of people who are there year round working the horses, and the skills, church, resources provided to them. Would love to hear highlights of the people behind the scenes. Very cool.

A new experience at the Kentucky Derby Museum! My husband and I were given passes to the Black Jockeys in History tour. While the tour ended inside the museum, which allows you to visit this extraordinary space, the tour itself is on the Churchill Downs grounds. We visited the paddock, 4th floor Stakes Room, finish line, twin spires and other sections. Our tour guide was fantastic! She was as energetic and shared interesting information. Her passion about the jockeys and the conditions they faced was evident. This tour was approximately 1.5 hours and you'll be walking the entire time outside. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Private parking lot on site, free. Allow yourself a few minutes to check in prior to your tour.

Kentucky derby museum is a museum that honors the most exciting 3 min in sports. Located on central Avenue and attached to the historic Churchill Downs where the legendary annual Kentucky derby race is ran. I very recently made a visit here with my family and a friend of my daughters. I had not been to Thai establishment in a very long time. Probably an elementary school failed trip. Defiantly was the first time in my adult life attending the Museum. So is as excited to see how it changed or how it was. Pricing is moderately on the high side a bit. $16 for an adult. And while the museum is very cool it isn't the largest place. You can take a small tour of Churchill Downs that takes you to the paddock and trackside. I do not remember doing that as a child so I'm gonna say that didn't exist back then. Either way it was a cool touch. The museum itself is chock full of cool derby info on the winners, jockeys trainers and setup and creation of the race. Being a local Lousiville guy I was very familiar with most of it. They do have a couple cool interactive features that me and the kids enjoyed a lot. A ride on race simulator that's kinda like a small arcade game. A place where they have toy place a won, place and show bet on three horses and print your ticket then you actually watch old races to see how you did. Teaches them young how to why properly. Lol. Overall very nice and upkept place attached to the stunning Churchill Downs. Me and the kids had a good time. It took with the tour maybe 60-90 min to get through it all so we have a fun and quick trip here. Cool place and if you want to learn more about the race and the Downs it is a perfect place to spend a quick visit at.

I was super excited to be visiting the Famous Churchill Downs while on vacation in Louisville! The History of this place including all the Horses, trainers and owners that have graced this track is truly American History. I learned so much while here and will definitely make the trip back in the future to attend the live Derby Until next review Kisses

If you're a Derby fan, you should definitely check this out! I'm not a fan myself, but it was still interesting to learn about. An $18 adult ticket gets you a guided tour, which includes the track, access to the museum, and an 18 minute movie. The movie is well done! Note that the screen goes around the whole room and there are swivel chairs so you can turn in your seat. The Churchill Downs paddock was under renovation, but we were still able to see the track. The tour itself was pretty short. It took us about 1-1.5 hours, including the movie, tour, and walking around the museum. There are some interactive parts, like a Derby IQ game and simulated horse racing, which is entertaining for kids, but there's not much else.

My family and I visited the Kentucky derby museum over the summer. I have been here a few times but not since I've been on Yelp. So we went and I really enjoyed myself. My kids enjoyed it they had a nice Kentucky derby museum movie that showed how everything works and all kinds of art displays and interactive games for kids to play. Definitely worth a trip if you've never been

Came to the Kentucky Derby Museum on a whim, ended up having an amazing time! Johnny Bourbon behind the bar was a real gem! He made the made the museum experience exceptional for both the kids and big kids alike. Everyone working at the museum was awesome. Highly recommend the museum and the bourbon bar, ask for Johnny Bourbon!

Parked, paid admission & joined Logan on a tour of Churchill Downs, he gave us a lot of history about this magnificent park. For :30 we walked along the paddock & saw 140 winners hearing about triple crown winners & 2 winning Phillies. We got to the track, a mile long & sand is 25 feet deep, race is 1 1/4 long. Viewed the mansion, spires & millionaire row. Enjoyed the :20 film that was 360 degrees. It gave a wonderful overview of the backstory. Amazed at all of the people behind the scenes here. We watched a colt, trainers, jockeys, and owners. Back In the museum there were lots of photo ops. There was so much info about jockeys, thorough breds, the Derby, black heritage here, fashion, traditions.... There were interactive exhibits where we sat in saddles & raced, placed bets, it was a lot of fun! There were children & adults of all ages & backgrounds here.

So much history! Easy to find and not a huge strain on the budget (gift shop not included). Everything is well maintained and the displays are extensive and beautifully laid out. If you get a chance to visit this place, take it. No regrets!.

Took the Backstretch Breakfast Golf Cart Tour ($100/ person). Sean was our Tour Guide; Sean was nothing short of AMAZING! He truly loves his job! He is a Derby lover that knows details about the Park. No matter what questions our group threw at Sean, he knew the long and detailed answer!!! If you ever wanted to tour Churchill Downs & The Kentucky Derby Museum, pay the money and take the tour with Sean!!!! MOST SINCERELY, Dayla

We made reservations the night before for one of the early walking tours in mid July. The tour guide Sean was excellent. We learned alot about the race and Churchill Downs though given current construction on the turf track no horses are in residents. (Don't book the barn tour right now if you are hoping to see horses.) The museum itself is fun and interactive. Don't miss the upstairs part especially on horseshoeing. And of course the movie is a must see. Well worth the price of admission.

Where Every Day Is Derby Day Great backstage tour of Churchill Downs and information about the Kentucky Derby. Loved the 360° movie, "The Greatest Race," that allows you to experience a day at the derby. Social distancing in place and guests had timed access passes. Would recommend the early morning Racehorse Workout Tour which starts before the museum is even open. Nice to be able to watch the beautiful thoroughbreds, trainers, and jockeys race around the track, the hooves of these majestic horses hitting the dirt, as the sun rises. The horses would come to the side of the track to take a break from their workout and get a treat of peppermint candies. Interesting to get a bit of both the history as well as "A Day in the Life" today. The museum, though small, was perfect for a quick visit. Since our tour started before the museum was open, we could view the displays filled with trophies, fancy hats, mint julep glasses and more with only a handful of other guests. Lots of interactive exhibits as well with bottles of hand sanititizer scattered throught the museum. Fun morning at the track.

Open for "socially distanced tours" in early July, the Churchill Downs property has it going on with a mask requirement, sanitation stations and even a sanitized handout stylus so that you can still press the buttons on their interactive displays. In the 360 degree video room, the stools are set apart so that you can spin to your heart's content and still be separated from other museum goers. Okay, on to the museum and the tour! Lots to look at and see, especially that 360 degree video that puts you right in the heart of things from the horses coming in to the pounding excitement of the race. Lots of memorabilia here that calls out the history, the people and the horses that helped make Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby what it is today. The behind the scenes tours takes you out and through some of the important places including the paddock, the seating areas, the betting halls and right up to the actual track area. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and helpful, pointing out the interesting spots to see and keeping our small tour group together (but separate). Well worth the entry fee for nearly two hours of interesting history! [Review 13493 overall, 812 of 2020.]

This was a really nice experience for the family. I will say that the audits enjoyed it more than the ten and under kids , but there was still some cool stuff for them, as well. Great organization. A lot of wonderful memorabilia and information cleverly displayed. Some awesome interactive parts such as faux betting, riding a horse, etc, The tour guide was fun. We ate at the cafe in a pinch because the girls were getting hangry but definitely pass on that. However, the bar in the cafe looked cool and I wish I had tried one of THOSE drinks. Another highlight was a 360 fifteen minute movie. What's unique about this is that you sit on swivel stools and swivel around to see the entire movie (which also has subtitles for those of us who also like to read).SO glad we went!!

I really enjoyed this museum and the tour was fun and educational! It really bought back some memories for me! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and a tour is included with the ticket price. You get to go trackside! This is a great experience and to be so close and know MANY horses have thundered down this very track and the much loved Triple-Crown Winner Secretariat! The group saw the finish line and the winner's circle. I even saw some horses exercising! The Secretariat exhibit was insightful and as a kid I remembered the headlines and the cover with Secretariat and the race where the competition was blown away and I remember seeing this horse run live and the competition was nowhere in sight! I was too young to say Secretariat and it came out as Secretary! The free movie was also fun! My head turned too much and a nicer experience would be to have the film go around in order instead of in random order! If you didn't get enough horse then explore the museum stable where there are two horses. Tanner is full sized and the other is a mini! I had a burgoo at the Derby Cafe! It doesn't open until 11:00 am. It was thick and meaty and quite enjoyable but I had a tummy ache afterwards! Still did not detract from the experience!

Is anyone really here to see stuff in the Kentucky Derby Museum itself or are people here to get an awesome walking tour of Churchill Downs? There are some interesting things in the museum like trophies, outrageous bonnets, and a cool gift shop. Albeit, the magic happens on the race track and to get a walking tour, you need to purchase an admission ticket at museum and check it out first. The 360 degree movie they show was riveting but you're not missing much if you don't catch it before the tour (which start 30 minutes past the hour).