There's a reason we have experiences in our name — it's because the Kentucky Derby® is about more than just a two-minute sprint between three-year-old horses. It's about the mystique of the event as a whole, the aura of Churchill Downs® as a venue, and the worldwide scope that the Derby brings to Louisville every year.
That's why we offer more than just a ticket to the Derby every year. With Official Ticket Packages, we can give the annual 'Run for the Roses' a life that extends past just a typical sporting competition.
So when you're deciding how you want to experience the Kentucky Derby, consider these factors and benefits that come with an Official Ticket Package and create a unique experience at Churchill Downs.
Budget Flexibility
When deciding whether or not you want to attend the Kentucky Derby, budget is the first thing to think about. First off, can I afford to go to the Derby? Secondly, what type of tickets can I get within my budget?
Thankfully, Derby Experiences takes all of that into account. When reviewing our offerings, there is truly something for everyone seeking a premium experience. Two-day packages start at $1,199 and go up to $9,999 for the most luxurious offerings. When clicking on a package, our interactive map shows you where your seats would be located.
Hospitality Options
This is where Derby Experiences goes beyond just a general public admission ticket. Derby Experiences offers over 20 different ticket package options for you to choose from, many with hospitality access during your time at Churchill Downs.
All of our hospitality venues are in-track, ensuring ease of access between your seating location and the hospitality area. Each of our venues is found at different parts of Churchill Downs and comes with differing inclusions, so make sure to check out which one fits what you are looking for.
But if you're simply asking 'Why hospitality' over a general admission ticket... it comes down to maximizing your time at the Derby. You want to maximize the time you are spending at Churchill Downs, and there's not really anywhere to go with just a general admission ticket. If you're at the track for the entire two days, you don't want to be just confined to your seat.
With hospitality, you can select exactly where you want to spend the day, be treated to unlimited food and drinks, enjoy live entertainment, and have access to private wagering stations.
Tours & Parties
Our tour and party offerings give you the ultimate behind-the-scenes access to Louisville and Churchill Downs during Derby week.
Taste of Derby and Fillies & Lilies Parties are included in some Official Ticket Packages, or they can be purchased à-la-carte online!
Our annual Fillies & Lilies Party is hosted in the newly renovated Kentucky Derby Museum and is the ultimate kick-off party for Derby weekend with gourmet food, interactive experiences, entertainment, and much more to keep the party going after the Oaks Day races.
We also offer different tour options around Louisville, like the Churchill Downs Backstretch Tour, Horse Country Tour, Bourbon Country Tour, and The Best of Kentucky Tour.
Ticket Security
Through Derby Experiences, your tickets come directly from Churchill Downs, ensuring peace of mind when ordering and securing your packages. As an Official Partner of Churchill Downs, we can guarantee authentic tickets every time and no fluctuation of price since we are not subject to inflation on the secondary market.
We can also guarantee that your tickets will arrive at you 10 to 14 days before the 2026 Kentucky Derby.
How to Buy a Kentucky Derby Ticket Package
If you're ready to secure your access to the Kentucky Derby with Derby Experiences, here's what you need to do:
- Follow this link to our website.
- Select your package from our price range options
- Once you have picked a package with the inclusions you would like, choose the number of packages you would like.
- You can select hotel accommodations for your stay, but this is not required.
- Add your order to your cart and choose whether to pay in full or to split your payment.
- Proceed to checkout, enter your payment information, and confirm your order!
- See you at Churchill Downs!
