“The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” and the first leg of the Triple Crown™, the Kentucky Derby® is without a doubt the most iconic horse race and the longest running sporting event in America. Immerse yourself amongst 170,000 racing fans for unmatched excitement at the 2026 Kentucky Derby.
We are breaking down every Official Ticket Package available, in a multi-part series, to be sure you select the one that will give you the most unforgettable experience.
This week, we are focusing on Clubhouse Purple:
Clubhouse Purple Official Ticket Package
Clubhouse Purple ticket holders will be seated on the third floor of the clubhouse in sections 312 and 313. The best part of sitting on the third floor is that it gives guests an overhead view of the racetrack. These two sections are the last on the third floor, right at the perfect vantage point to see the photo finish. Those seated in rows D and up will be under cover, and those in rows A through C will be in open-air seating; all rows will have unobstructed views of the track. Clubhouse Purple guests will be provided with an on-site trip director and VIP fast access passes, which allow for a faster, more secure access into Churchill Downs® at gates 1, 10, and 17. By choosing Clubhouse Purple, you will also be able to choose between Aristides Lounge access and Taste of Derby party access. .
Aristides Lounge
Aristides Lounge, a premium luxury hospitality venue, is located on the second floor of Churchill Downs, above gate 17. This in-track, climate-controlled venue is complete with all-day gourmet buffets and a premium open bar. Guests will also have the privilege of celebrity Jockey meet and greets, live entertainment, and in the past, we've had celebrities such as Pay Day, Laffit Pincay, and performances by bands such as Almost Classy. There will also be access to self-service wagering stations and TV coverage, so you can escape the weather and not miss a second of the action!
Taste of Derby
Kick off your Derby weekend with access to the Taste of Derby party on Thursday, April 30th. This event offers an unforgettable evening of gourmet flavors, live music, and top-tier entertainment— all channeling the sophistication of the Kentucky Derby through the lens of refined culinary craftsmanship.
Add Travel and Accommodations to Your Package
Get the most out of your trip to Louisville, Kentucky, by adding hotel accommodations to your package. Derby Experiences offers a handful of hotel options, which include transportation to and from Churchill Downs on race day. Choose from multiple transportation options one time from each of the hotel locations and back to Churchill Downs, including Motorcoach Transportation or upgrade to Semi-Private Transportation or a Private Vehicle. Hotel options are located throughout East, Northeast, South, and Downtown Louisville. Derby Experiences ensures that any hotel and/or transportation options you choose will meet and exceed the needs of you and your group.
Secure Clubhouse Purple Access
Want More Information?
Derby Experiences is the ONLY Official Partner of Churchill Downs and guarantees that your Kentucky Derby tickets are packaged with exclusives and extras that you cannot obtain from anywhere else. We are a full-service travel company that provides unmatched benefits and unparalleled access to the Kentucky Derby. Direct from Churchill Downs, we provide an unforgettable VIP experience to the 2018 Kentucky Derby.
Interested in this specific package and want to hear more? We’ve got you covered. Fill out the form or give us a call at 888.384.7088, and we will assign you to an expert sales rep who can answer any and all of your questions!
