5 Items Every Kentucky Derby® Attendee Should Bring to Churchill Downs®
Posted by Julie Skaff on June 09, 2020
A Kentucky Derby® weekend consists of two invigorating, full days of racing at Churchill Downs®. To get the most out of your experience and make sure you are comfortable during your time at the track, it’s important to come prepared with a few vital items!
Keeping reading to find out the five items that we highly suggest you pack for your bucket-list trip to Churchill Downs.
1. A comfortable change of shoes
The gates to Churchill Downs officially opened in 1875, and the antiquated charm of the building and its grounds are part of the legendary allure. While walking the cobblestone paths and stairwells are all part of the Kentucky Derby experience, it does not go well with uncomfortable shoes.
Over the years, Derby experts have learned the importance of bringing an extra pair of comfortable shoes. Many attendees will opt to bring along a pair of flip flops or flats to change into towards the end of the day after wearing your outfit-making shoes. Don’t let an aching foot ruin your Derby Day and come prepared with a good backup!
2. Bag Policy
Churchill Downs enforces a restricted bag policy beginning on April 29 through Derby Day. Guests are permitted one bag that can be no larger than 12" x 6" x 12.
3. Cash
The last thing you want to do at the Kentucky Derby is wait in long lines at the ATM to get out cash for betting or any purchases!
Come prepared with cash so you can spend your time at Churchill Downs watching racing, making bets and living in the moment with friends and family!
4. Sunscreen & Poncho
If past years are any indication, the weather during Kentucky Derby weekend can be extremely unpredictable. It’s best to come prepared for any eventuality with both sunscreen and a rain gear!
It is important to note that umbrellas are NOT allowed inside the gates of Churchill Downs, so if the forecast says rain, come prepared with a poncho or rain jacket!
A full list of items that are and are not permitted by Churchill Downs can be found here.
5. Portable Phone Charger
The Kentucky Derby is an exciting event, and you will more than likely be taking pictures, posting on social media or FaceTiming friends and family back at home to show off what they are missing!
All of this phone activity is why it’s important to bring a portable phone charger. Your phone’s battery will drain quickly during a long day at the track, and you don’t want to be left unable to use it when trying to meet up with friends who got separated or take a photo with a celebrity you ran into!
Attend the Kentucky Derby
Now you can come prepared to Churchill Downs like an experienced Derby-goer!
Join Derby Experiences in Louisville for “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” with an Official Ticket Package. Get access to reserved seats, exclusive hospitality, insider extras and much more!