Churchill Downs Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Churchill Downs
Photo provided by Churchill Downs
Photo provided by Churchill Downs
Photo provided by Churchill Downs
Photo provided by Churchill Downs


Find more than mint juleps to enjoy at this iconic racetrack, best known as the annual host of the Kentucky Derby.

Every May, Churchill Downs comes alive, packed with people and horses celebrating the races and excitement of the Kentucky Derby. The crowds have descended on the racetrack every year since 1875, making the Kentucky Derby the longest-running sporting event in United States history.

Take some time out of your packed Louisville schedule to come see the track’s distinctive spires and explore this indelible part of American sporting history. You’ll have lots to see and do year-round.

As you wait for one of the hourly tours to begin, stop in the Kentucky Derby Museum, which explains the history of the track, the jockeys and the horses. Settle in for a wild ride while watching the 360-degree film, The Greatest Race, which has stools that rotate as the immersive video screen shows all the action.

You may not want to leave, but follow your tour guide outside as he or she gives you a lively historical tour of the grounds and the track.

Visit the paddocks to glimpse a few of the magnificent animals in training for races. Walk around the track, imagining when horses such as Secretariat, who still holds the Derby record, thunder down it.

Take refuge from the heat in the clubhouse with a mint julep, which comes with a keepsake glass and offers an excellent opportunity to linger in front of the 36-foot (11-meter) mural of all of the jockeys who have won the race.

Be part of history by placing a bet and putting your feet up, watching the horses run and run.

Churchill Downs is in southern Louisville, a 10-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride from the city’s downtown. Walk here in 20 minutes from University of Louisville’s main campus. Free parking is available at the site.

Choose from a variety of tour options available to book on the racetrack’s website. The racetrack and museum are open daily during business hours with somewhat later start on Sundays. Racing takes place in three meets in spring, summer and fall. The Kentucky Derby is always the first Saturday in May.

Popular places to visit


Top Churchill Downs Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Ctr by IHG

Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Ctr by IHG

3.5 out of 5
830 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY
Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Ctr by IHG
At The Track: Walkable! Bourbon & Beyond, Churchill Downs, U of L Sports

At The Track: Walkable! Bourbon & Beyond, Churchill Downs, U of L Sports

Louisville
At The Track: Walkable! Bourbon & Beyond, Churchill Downs, U of L Sports
Stunning Newly Renovated 3BD Loft By Churchill

Stunning Newly Renovated 3BD Loft By Churchill

Louisville
Stunning Newly Renovated 3BD Loft By Churchill
Lush 3BD Newly Renovated 1st FL By Churchill

Lush 3BD Newly Renovated 1st FL By Churchill

Louisville
Lush 3BD Newly Renovated 1st FL By Churchill
Less than a mile from KY Derby/Churchill Downs + Sleeps 8!

Less than a mile from KY Derby/Churchill Downs + Sleeps 8!

Louisville
Less than a mile from KY Derby/Churchill Downs + Sleeps 8!
The Lucky Horseshoe

The Lucky Horseshoe

Louisville
The Lucky Horseshoe
Super 8 by Wyndham Louisville/Expo Center

Super 8 by Wyndham Louisville/Expo Center

2 out of 5
101 Central Ave, Louisville, KY
Super 8 by Wyndham Louisville/Expo Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Churchill Downs

Experience the thrill of Churchill Downs, a premier entertainment destination renowned for its exciting horse races and vibrant sporting events. While visiting, enjoy live music and explore local attractions, including baseball games and diverse dining options. Don't forget to gather travel tips to make the most of your trip to this iconic venue in Louisville, Kentucky.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Churchill Downs, visit Nulu Market Place, just 6.4km away, where you’ll find a mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Jefferson Mall and Great Clips Festival Shopping Center, both located 11.3km from Churchill Downs.

Recreation

At KFC Yum Center, immerse yourself in the energetic sports atmosphere while enjoying local events. Just a short stroll away, L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium offers a lively vibe for sports enthusiasts. For a tranquil experience, head to Riverfront Plaza Belvedere, where you can relax amidst beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

Check out Bass-Rudd Tennis Center for a game of tennis only 1.6km from Churchill Downs, immersing yourself in the sporting atmosphere. For a splash, Atlantis Waterpark, located 8.0km away, offers thrilling rides and family fun, while Lannan Park Trailhead, also 8.0km away, provides scenic hiking opportunities.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife at Louisville Palace, only 4.8km from Churchill Downs, offering a mix of entertainment and culture. Alternatively, enjoy the Actors Theatre of Louisville or Baron's Theater, both 6.4km away, where family-friendly performances and romantic vibes await.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Churchill Downs

When visiting Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, you'll find a range of attractions to suit every traveller, from sports museums to local events and vibrant streets. Immerse yourself in the culture and family-friendly experiences, while exploring top attractions and the best hotels nearby. Whether you're keen on the renowned Kentucky Derby or looking for unique Louisville experiences, there's something for everyone at this iconic destination.

  • Kentucky Exposition Center: Located a mere 3.2km from Churchill Downs, this expansive event and conference venue offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for business gatherings. With a variety of exhibitions and trade shows, it’s a hub of activity and energy, showcasing the best of what Kentucky has to offer in terms of industry and innovation.
  • Louisville Slugger Museum: Situated 6.4km away, this sports museum celebrates the rich history of baseball and its iconic bat. You’ll get to explore interactive exhibits that highlight sports culture, making it a must-visit for fans and history buffs alike.
  • Fourth Street Live! Just 4.8km from Churchill Downs, this bustling street is alive with energy, featuring shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Experience the vibrant city vibes and indulge in local cuisine while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Best time to go to Churchill Downs

The best time to visit Churchill Downs can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Churchill Downs falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Churchill Downs falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Churchill Downs

To save on your trip to Churchill Downs, consider visiting between November and January, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your stay on a Monday will also save you money, as Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotels, flights, and activities for the best package deals. Be sure to filter search results by price from low to high and look for options with free cancellation. Exploring the area on foot can also help you save on transport costs while enjoying the local sights.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Churchill Downs are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Churchill Downs is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Churchill Downs is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Churchill Downs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.