Attending the Kentucky Derby® is an experience like no other. Everyone knows about the mint juleps, big hats, and memorable experience, but there are some important things to know before taking in Churchill Downs® for the first time.

We’ve rounded up some of our most important points and most asked questions so you come prepared to have an incredible weekend with Derby Experiences at the Kentucky Derby.

There’s a lot more to the Kentucky Derby than a single race.

The Kentucky Derby itself is the single, 2-minute race that we all know and love. However, there are about 10-13 other races happening throughout Derby Day starting around 10:30am and going until about 8:30pm.

But – there’s more. Kentucky Derby weekend also consists of Oaks Day, another full day of racing on Friday where the fillies (female horses) race. This is the day of the iconic “pink-out,” where racegoers are encouraged to dress head to toe in pink to bring awareness to the fight against breast and ovarian cancer. Oaks Day has hugely grown in popularity in recent years, with thousands of attendees coming out to make the most of their experience and enjoy another exciting day at Churchill Downs.

Most Derby Experiences packages include tickets to Oaks Day and Derby Day, so you don’t have to miss out on any of the action.

Read More:

What is the Kentucky Oaks®?

5 Things to Know Before Attending Kentucky Oaks® Day

What's the Difference Between the Kentucky Oaks® and Kentucky Derby®?

Come prepared to get your steps in.

Churchill Downs is a world-renowned horse-racing track for good reason. It’s historic, beautiful and expansive to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of attendees on Derby Day. Due to the size of the track, you should be prepared to do a lot of walking.

To really get the full Kentucky Derby experience, you’ll want to watch races from your reserved seats, head out to the Paddock to watch horses and jockeys parade around up close, check out the gift shop, make bets, pick up food and drinks and so much more. It can all be done during your time at the track if you’re rested, have on comfortable shoes and are willing maneuver your way through the crowds. Most people end up walking a few miles worth during the two-day event.

A lot of walking not an option? Access to a Premium Room will be your best bet to have a great and comfortable experience. With your reserved seating, hospitality access, great views and restrooms located in the same general area, this access is the best way to keep the steps to a minimum.

It’s going to be crowded.

You probably haven’t experienced 160,000 people in one place at the same time before. Being around that many people creates an exhilarating atmosphere, but also gets hectic. Bring your patience to weave through crowds and anticipate things taking a bit longer than normal.

Thankfully, access from Derby Experiences helps alleviate the frustrations that can come with a crowd. Official Ticket Packages come with a VIP Fast Access Pass so you can bypass the general public line upon entry at the gate. Hospitality offers access to private restrooms, shorter lines for food and drinks and a place to sit back and unwind away from the masses.

Bring your own wheelchair.

Churchill Downs does not have wheelchairs available to use. If you are anticipating needing wheelchair assistance at any point, we highly recommend bringing your own.

If you do come in a wheelchair, ADA seating options are typically available with an advanced request. Please contact our team to confirm ADA accommodations.

Rain or Shine – Derby Weekend goes on.

Everyone wishes for a beautiful Derby weekend, but sometimes mother nature has other plans. The Kentucky Derby weekend events are run rain or shine, so it’s best to come prepared to brave the elements.

Seriously - statistics show that it has rained on about half of Kentucky Derby days throughout history.

Louisville weather can be somewhat unpredictable, even from hour to hour, so we recommend planning to bring sunscreen, a rain poncho (umbrellas are prohibited) and layers.

Derby Experiences offers covered seating with several of our Ticket Packages that can be purchased in advance to ensure you’ll stay (mostly) dry and/or out of the direct sun if it is a big concern for you and your group.

Read More:

History of Weather at the Kentucky Derby®

5 Items Every Kentucky Derby® Attendee Should Bring to Churchill Downs®

Attending the Kentucky Derby with Derby Experiences?

Yes? Great, we hope these points helped. If you still have more questions, feel free to reach out to our team at any time. We can’t wait to see you in Louisville!

No? It’s time to get your Official Ticket Package booked! Our team is available to help you choose the right Derby Experiences Package for you and your group or answer any questions you may have.

Learn More