Things to Do When Visiting the Kentucky Derby
Those with their 2017 Kentucky Derby tickets in hand will be travelling to Louisville before May 6 to enjoy the two-minute race in person. The “Run for the Roses” takes approximately two minutes, leaving attendees with plenty of time for some fun away from the Churchill Downs racetrack.
The Kentucky Derby Festival runs for the two weeks that proceed the race day and its usually full of events, including Thunder Over Louisville, which is the largest annual fireworks display held in North America. Visitors can also attend the Pegasus Parade, one of the largest U.S. parades. The hot-air balloon race, the steamboat race, full marathon, and the half marathon are also included in the festival of events.
Some may not be able to get into town to attend the concerts, culinary feasts, and athletic events that are part of the festival. No Worry, there is plenty for them to do during the day of and those following the race. Whether they stay at hotels near the airport like the Spring Hill Suites, Howard Johnson Express Inn, Ramanda Louisville Expo Center, courtyard by Marriott Louisville, or Hampton Inn, they will enjoy accommodations about two miles from the race track and close to everything else.
Downtown Louisville is nearby and features the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, Muhammad Ali Center, and Speed Art Museum. The Frazier International History Museum has interactive exhibits and permanent galleries for all ages, walking visitors through 1,000 years of history. For some hair-raising fun, visitors can ride the roller coasters at Six Flags Kentucky.
After the Kentucky Derby winners have been crowned, it is time for some good eats. Silvers Spoon 11, Derby Café and El Molcajete are among the top ten top-rated restaurants in town. And, anyone interested in doing some local travelling while dining might enjoy the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. The 1940s dining cars take a two-hour excursion through the countryside of Kentucky.
There is no shortage of bars in Louisville and after the Kentucky Derby, these are packed. There, everyone will be discussing the Kentucky Derby winners and losers and already preparing for their trip in 2018.
If you are headed to the Kentucky Derby 2017 to witness one of the most incredible sporting events of the year, the first thing that you will need to ensure that you have are your Kentucky Derby 2017 ticket. Remember, you can’t get in without it.
