- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Churchill Downs
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Stadiums & Arenas Active Life Horse Racing Stadiums & Arenas, Horse Racing [Edit]
700 Central AveLouisville, KY 40208
(502) 636-4400
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
55 reviews for Churchill Downs
55 reviews in English
-
Review from Melanie K.
Louisville, KY
1/24/2012
The most exciting two minutes of review reading...
I love this track! There are great tours, betting throughout the week, great qualifying races for horses and multiple size purses.
Throughout the season they have Down's at Dark a night time racing event, the Spring and Fall Meet, The Paddock Concert Series where you can see an Indy Band play in the Paddock area, Breeder's Cup, Dawn at the Down's where you can see horses train and get the insider scoop, plus of course Oaks and Derby Day.
No matter when you come to town, Churchill twin spires will always be host to a memorable event. However it should be noted that between Dec and April is the off season for Churchill Downs.Listed in: Been There, Done That, Got the…
-
Review from Elizabeth B.
Louisville, KY
11/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love me some horse racing! I also love me a fancy day at the race track. I have grown up going to horse races with my family and we have always gone to Keeneland. In my opinion Keeneland is prettier and a nicer spot to spend the day.
With that said, Churchill is a great place as well. It seems more "tracky" than what I am used to, but there is something so cool about being in such a historic and important place to the sport of horse racing. The crowd was great for the Breeder's Cup and the energy was electric. The bathrooms are clean and had candy! The drinks are expensive, but that is to be expected when you have a captive audience. I did not partake in any food.
I do wish they had a larger variety of ATM providers. They only have 5/3rd and US Bank. So if you do not have one of those, make sure you get cash before you go. -
Review from Jeremy C.
Probably one of the coolest places I have ever been. Not exactly in the most incredible neighborhood but that really doesn't affect anything.
I was amazed by the size of this place and how well done everything is. It is kind of like stepping back in time when you walk through certain areas. I really liked the Tour guide and all the stories he told.
It was interesting to hear about everything he had to offer.
I would love to come see a race here some day but until then I will definitely have very fond memories here. -
Review from Laura T.
It's beautiful and elegant and everything you want it to be. Four stars because it's expensive.
-
Review from Jordan P.
8/13/2011 1 photo
What a sight Churchill Downs is! In the heart of far from glamorous surroundings, the stark white exterior and historic Twin Spires stand in glorious grandeur. The sight of it alone triggers warm feelings of the historic significance of the place. This place is shrouded in a cloud of wonderment. I mean people come from all over the world come year in and year out to see, feel, and experience the Kentucky Derby. That says a lot.
But beyond the Derby, Churchill has really stepped it up in the last few years. The addition of Downs After Dark has introduced a whole new group of people to the place and to horse racing. I'm very impressed with the creative vision of the team running the show. Theme nights, live music, the works. Downs After Dark during the spring and fall meets deserves a place on the 'must experience' list.
I've been to the Derby, a regular meet day and Downs After Dark. I'll admit, the Paddock/Infield during Derby isn't an enjoyable experience for everyone. I find the crowd a little overwhelming, and the smoke a little unbearable. You have to try it at least once though. My next stop at Derby is Millionaire's Row. We all have to dream, right? Down After Dark is just fun. If my schedule is clear, I don't miss it. And, it's affordable. $20 gets you a reserved seat, and you can't beat the experience. Always an amazing time! -
Review from Kristen W.
Louisville, KY
I frequented Keeneland in Lexington when I was in college, where you would wear your Sunday Best and there was an atmosphere to match. I went to Churchill Downs for the first time in May and wore something I would have worn to Keeneland and I felt way overdressed. Obviously it's different on Derby Day, but on any old race day, CD seems to be much more of a casual environment, and a little more run-down than Keeneland. I also noticed the cigarette smoke to be much more of a problem. I'm a fan, but for the best horse race experience, I prefer going over to Lexington.
-
Review from Lindsay K.
Chicago, IL
5/24/2011
Kentucky Derby 137! Our first time here! And had a blast.
First off - don't think there won't be jeans and flip flops here. There were. We dressed it up though, cause it's tradition!
Churchill is enormous! Also, it took us awhile to figure out how to get around the paddock area - you're almost back out in the parking lot to get to the side where the tunnel is for the Infield.
Now the Infield area. Wow. This would have been cool if I was in college. But no longer - drunk people falling over. Muddy. Port-o-potties. Just gross! But I did score a pack of cigs for $8 - that's less than Chicago and in a tourist spot!
The food choices I thought were lacking. I found that surprising. Mint juleps are way too sweet and gross I thought - but some people carried around their souvenir glasses like a pride stamp of how many they'd had (like a Wrigley Field/any other sporting event w/ beer cups) so some people must like them. I preferred the Oaks drink (like a Cosmo) and served in a stemless wine glass.
Note: If you buy the standing room only tickets that means you cannot see the track unless you camped out in the Infield or there's a tiny tiny spot where the media is.
I can't wait to go back on a non-Derby day though and be able to take it all in without thousands of my "closest friends" around me!Listed in: Kentucky Derby 137
-
Review from Edgar P.
8/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Sadly, still haven't been to the Kentucky Derby but I did take a tour of the museum inside the place!
I must say, this is one beautiful race track full of rich history. Admission into the museum is a mere $13 and you get a nice overview of it's history. There are also other tours you can take throughout the park that allows you to take a closer look at what goes on race day. I unfortunately did not get the chance to do that because we came a little too late in the day and we just ran out of time. I will update it once I go back...hopefully for next year's derby!
-Papa Bear -
Review from Lorena B.
Sierra Madre, CA
Oh, the glorious and bittersweet sights those twin spires have seen... the greatest horses ever to have run passing under their shadows, stamping their hoof-prints into the history books for fans of the game to admire and marvel at decades later. Every year, thoroughbreds vie to join the ranks of the immortal Secretariat, Swaps, and War Admiral (amongst so many others) with the beautiful Churchill Downs as their backdrop. It is home to the deeds of our greatest champions, as well as the most tragic and heartbreaking defeats.
As the quintessential American racetrack, Churchill has a rich history and stands as capital of the North American thoroughbred industry. The Kentucky Derby, perhaps the most famous horse race the world over, is run here every first Saturday of May. It is a must-see track for any horse racing enthusiast, without question, and a fascinating point of historical interest if you're visiting the Louisville area. If you hadn't already, you might just fall in love with the "Sport of Kings" while you're here. -
Review from Shawna K.
Tampa, FL
5/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've only been here for Derby and Oaks, although would love to come back to check out the museum and other days when not so crowded, still Churchill Downs is wonderful!
They offer seating in every price range, from the infield- where the craziest shenanigans are usually taking place, the stands - where you can people watch the best but have no roof in case it rains, private tents and room that boast upstairs viewing, downstairs seating and free food and drinks, and the private clubs such as Millionaires Row, etc... . So no matter your budget or lifestyle you will find a great match.
As you walk through the general area you can find just about any type of food possible and the smells are everywhere! The beer is about $8 a piece, steep, but no more than most stadiums. Navigating your way through can be a bit tricky the first time and you will find yourself on pavement, old cobblestone, broken and lumpy brick roads, and watch out for the puddles of water after a rain. Suggestion to ladies: wear your flip flops in and then change into heels!
Parking can be a mess on Derby Day and the taxi line is usually 2+ hours, but again that is to be expected.
Now, the first day we went to Oaks, we were very disappointed in our service. (we were in a private tent). They had one bartender working who was sooooo slow. The line for cocktails (probably longer since they were free) took you almost 25 minutes. Ridiculous! You know it is Oaks Day and how many tickets you sold, be better prepared! However, by the next day on Derby they had worked out all their kinks and the lines moved quickly, the food was always fresh and stocked and the ice cream bar was divine!!
Overall, a great derby weekend! -
Review from Pat K.
Clearwater, FL
5/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been to the Derby now three times and every time it is an amazing experience! The atmosphere is high energy! Horses and Hats! Both are on amazing display when you step into Churchill Downs!
Our three visits have been to Trackside Village so everything is well kept, clean, and new! Its the place to watch the Derby as it sits on turn one and gives great views of the horses in between bites of free prime rib buffets and free drinks! -
Review from Anna W.
8/5/2011
Definitely a place I would want to come back to. By the time we got here, our fourth museum of the day, we were kind of at the end of our museum tolerance. I'm a horse lover, though, so it was on my must see list. The video at the beginning is really, really good. We just did the cheapest tour but would like to come back for one in which you can see the horses. The tour we did was good and informative, and it was nice to be able to see a horse at the end of the tour. The museum itself is very extensive. There are so many things to see. We didn't touch the second floor because we were exhausted, figuring we'll leave it for next time. I would love to come back, there is so much history here that provides a great glimpse of America.
-
Review from Barb W.
Louisville, KY
8/10/2011
Obviously the historic significance of the place is important and makes it worth a visit.
Unfortunatley, the amount of cigar and cigarette smoke- even in the outer boxes- makes this is miserable time for most folks unless you are a smoker too.
I dont want to die of lung cancer from some other fools' smoke, so this will be our last visit.
I have been to other tracks around the country and other tracks seem to be more enlightened about the dangers and unpleasant atmosphere that smoking causes other guests. -
Review from Meghan B.
Washington, DC
9/8/2010
Didn't have time to take a full tour of Churchill Downs, but I think I saw a lot on my own and for free. If you bypass the museum and head into the betting areas (ask for directions on how to get there), you're allowed to walk out in the grandstand and go explore. The grandstand is impressive even when it's empty. There are no frills to it -- just hard metal seats or wooden benches with TVs spaced all along the walkways. I can't begin to imagine how loud it is during races.
After walking down to the bottom level by the track, I eventually found a few courtyards and back paddock areas that had gorgeous flowers and statues of Pat Day and famous horses. I probably wasn't supposed to go into those areas since I wasn't on a tour, but nobody stopped me. Now I just need to return for an actual Derby! -
Review from Kevin A.
5/28/2009
$70 GUIDE TO THE DERBY
The horses! The history! The hats! Indeed, there is no tradition in horse racing more storied than the Kentucky Derby and no finer way to spend the first Saturday in May.
After years of talking about going, I finally popped my Derby cherry this year and I managed to do it for about $70 with a great view of the race. Here's how I did it:
1. TRANSPORTATION - $21, Park at the Kentucky Expo center for $6 and hop on a school bus for $15 round trip. If you want, you can certainly skip the bus and walk to Churchill Downs which is 2 miles away.
2. ADMISSION - $40, I ain't no millionaire so there was no way that I was going to pay $300+ to sit in the grandstand for a 2 minute race. The $40 general admission ticket was just fine and gives you access to the infield, paddock, and grounds. I found a nice grassy spot by the first turn and was only about 20 feet from the track with an unobstructed view of the horses and the jumbo-tron by the finish line. People in seats 5 feet closer than me probably paid $800 for their tix. Suckers.
3. PROGRAMS & MINT JULEPS. If you have a Visa Signature card, bring it and you can get a program for free instead of paying $5. Mint juleps are a must and will set you back $9. I prefer the Woodford Reserve juleps to the ones made with Early Times, but if you go with the latter you'll get a free Derby glass which is a nice souvenir.
4. PEOPLE WATCHING - FREE. Camp out by the escalator heading up to millionaire's row and you'll see all sorts of celebrities, politicians, etc. Walk around the paddock to see beautiful women fresh from the tanning bed with giant hats. Finally, make your way to the infield to see rowdy kids covered in mud racing on top of port-a-potties.
The Derby is one of our country's great traditions and whether you want to go all out or do it on a budget, it's definitely worth experiencing. -
Review from Bucky K.
San Francisco, CA
4/24/2007
There are few things that are synonymous with Kentucky like horse racing, except for maybe bluegrass or bourbon or tobacco or fried chicken... OK, so maybe there are more than a few things. Horse racing is near the top of that list and is nowhere exemplified better than at Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby.
I look at Churchill Downs like at look at New Orleans. You can't get a good sense of the beauty and history of New Orleans if you only visit it at Mardi Gras. Same with the Downs. You will miss out on so much if you only take it in during the Derby. Granted it is an absolute blast to spend the day in the infield and you will leave with many great memories and also many "wow, I can't believe that guy was sleeping in a puddle of his own vomit" stories. It really deserves multiple visits, just for seeing the race alone. it is next to impossible to see a race from the infield whereas the stands you can almost see the entire track.
And what would a trip to the track be without tasting their signature drink? That's right, The Mint Julep. Easily one of the grossest alcoholic beverages I've tasted... I can't figure out the fascination in this drink. Of course I've only had the pre-made batch for the masses and never from a true bar, so I could (and probably am) way off base here. Drink or not, if you are ever in Louisville you owe yourself a day at the track... -
Review from Amanda C.
9/20/2010
There weren't any races the day I went so I went to the museum and did the walking tour that came with it. Pretty good deal for $12. They take you to the paddock, to see a retired racehose, down to the track, etc, and give facts about previous horses, Derby winners, and jockeys. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and answered questions. Takes about 30 minutes. I most enjoyed the 20 minute video they provide after the tour- it's in a 360 degree theater so it's really dramatic and makes the derby seem really cool. There are other additional tours available that take you to the stables and other places.
The museum was a good size and you're able to get through it in about an hour. Plenty of memorabilia, old videos, and facts about previous derbies how racehorses are raised in cool displays (I liked the hats) and also interactive games where you can ride plastic horses and pretend to wager bets.
The facility itself was obviously very historic and was clean, but I don't think it was nearly as nice looking or feeling as Arlington Park Racetrack in IL.
If you are a horse lover you could probably spend the entire day here doing the tours. It's only a 10 minute drive from the Louisville airport so definitely worth stopping by.
Not sure what the dog policy is but the only thing that would make it better would be if my puppy could come too!!! -
Review from Seung S.
Chicago, IL
12/24/2010
Went there on the first Saturday of May. Have fun getting there and leaving as it takes time. Facility is huge but dirty, probably cause it's old. The self wagering machines look new but not great because it doesnt read bills that easily. There were not enough machines so you will need to wait in line. You will also need to wager a race in advance because of the lines for derby weekend and cannot wait to see the updated odds. Also the self wagering machines are not similar to another Twin Spires Park - Arlington. AP machines are a lot better as CD machines do not provide jockey/trainer names. The food served is good along with the drinks. The paddock gets tight.
pros: food, drinks, infield, jockey, history
cons: machines, paddock, dirty, logistics -
Review from Vanessa M.
Chicago, IL
5/5/2008
In a spur of the moment twist, I drove down for the Kentucky Derby on Sat morning from Chicago. I have never been to a racetrack and the Derby was my first chance at doing so. I am a gambler, but never on horses. As I stood in line, I ruminated over this fact. Immediately, I had four or five people that were standing around me give advice and tips to make the most of my bets. I ended up winning on one horse (lost on a few others), but it was fun nonetheless.
I enjoyed everything about it: the tradition of being dressed up, the mint juleps (even though they tasted bad to me) and the horse racing. Overall, a great time. -
Review from Jennifer L.
Chicago, IL
5/5/2008
I'm withholding a star, as I've only been here under the following conditions:
a) just once
b) on Derby day
c) in the infield
So, I'm guessing there's much more to Churchill Downs than what I experienced. Overall, it's a nice facility with a great history...one of America's treasures, I'd say. Just don't drink the mint julips they sell at the Early Times booths! -
Review from Erin L.
Novato, CA
7/9/2009 4 photos
Visited Louisville for the first time recently. Had to do the touristy stuff. We took the city bus from downtown out to Churchill Downs and toured the museum, took the basic tour the museum offers and then went over to the actual racetrack and spent some time betting on the races, people watching and having a mint julep or two. In all, a very pleasant way to spend a Saturday afternoon. A few thoughts:
- The museum staff are very, very nice. The college-aged kid who led our tour clearly loves his job and was eager to answer questions.
- The museum is nicely laid out and has all sorts of interesting exhibits and information. Even people who aren't particularly into horse racing (like myself) will find something here that intrigues them. I learned quite a bit while strolling through, and that's always a good thing.
- The basic tour offered by the museum was totally not worth it. All we did was walk out to the track, hear a few minutes of history about the grounds and then watch the first race of the day. We should have just saved our money and gone to the track on our own. The tour to take is the one that goes out to the barns, but it was sold out when we arrived. If you know when you're coming, book that tour in advance.
- There are plenty of food and drink options inside. Everyone in our group found something they liked.
- If you actually want to win money, learn a little something about horse racing before you arrive and pick up the little newspaper that has information about the horses. My super scientific method of choosing a horse based on the uniqueness of its name was not the way to go. Shocking, I know. -
Review from Jim G.
Louisville, KY
Updated - 4/2/2009
For your gambling dollar at CD you get an actual chance to win based on skill and acumen (or pretty names) and a sense of culture and history. Try eking that out of a greasy slot handle at the casino.
There's nothing wrong with the neighborhood. This is a working class area, no more, no less, and patrons of CD scarcely have any contact with the neighborhood outside Derby and Oaks. If you come to the track with a sense of wonder and imagination you'll have a great time.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
6/7/2007
This is only the best racetrack in America for its combination of legendary atmosphere and quality… Read more »
-
-
Review from Ann C.
Los Angeles, CA
5/7/2008 5 photos
Ok, I think I'm allergic to horses. But, that didn't stop me from going to the Derby and the Oaks this year. Remember, only losers add "the Kentucky" before the Derby!
I don't know if it was the handful of Benadryl mixed with gallons of mint julep, a continual flow of Chambord & Champagne, and/or the overall festive atmosphere... all I can say is, "Good times!" I had so much fun, I think I'm making it an annual tradition.
For my cherry pop, this first weekend in May, I had seats in the Grandstands. (Of course!) But, during the Oaks, I also made the rounds in the famous Infield. Wow! That place is sick (in the good, party it up like I'm still in college way). It's quite an experience. ESPN has a great article about "the infield" on Derby Day, check it out: ref: http://sports.espn.go....
Overall, GREAT EXPERIENCE. If you have the opportunity to go, don't even think.. just GO!!
=========
Update: June 6
I've just posted photos from my trip. Included is one of Big Brown and another of Eight Bells (RIP). -
Review from Nicole W.
Louisville, KY
7/4/2009
Don't be afraid to attend races not on Derby weekend here at the downs. We recently attended "Downs after dark"
-$6 general admission
-Access to all eateries, gift shop, Paddock, etc.
-Free seating in sections 111-118 (the lower lever, finish line, middle area).
-DJs and dancing, prizes, games
-happy hour 4-8pm, $2 beer & $2 hot dogs.
We were fans. When we go again, we'll come ready to gamble and bring a group. -
Review from Angela B.
West Chester, OH
5/8/2008
Specifically, the Kentucky Derby
"Local Flavor" for Cincinnatians as thousands of Queen City natives make their way down 75 to experience this crazy ode to hats, horse racing, and alcohol.
We were lucky enough to get drop off and pick up service at Churchill Downs so we got to bypass the masses that parked in the Cardinal's Stadium parking lot, although everyone parked there was tailgating and it looked like a lot of fun! The parking is actually really close to Churchill Downs, a five minute walk, and only costs $5 on Derby day.
We were surprised to see random men and women selling beers and other beverages out of personal coolers on the side of the road on our walk in...the Louisville Police seemed to turn a blind eye to them as well as to the guy walking around with an open bottle of Bacardi 151 (open container laws, anyone? Not at Derby!)
Confusion reigned when we saw numerous groups carrying large plastic bags of orange slices but we soon figured it out; visitors are allowed to bring food into Churchill Downs (as long as it is in see-through bags) and are not allowed to bring in any beverages...these Derby goers had soaked oranges in vodka overnight.
We went in the general admission gate and handed $40 for entry to the workers manning the entrance (we didn't even get a real ticket). General admission "tickets" let us wander anywhere except for in the grandstand (were the celebs and rich hang), though we stayed in the Infield for most of our visit.
For those who have never been, the Infield is all about the party. Dozens of vendor stalls advertise every alcoholic beverage you could ever imagine...at ridiculous prices. We had heard this and therefore pre-gamed pretty heavily with Mimosas before entering, but we were still set on getting Mint Juleps, as they are the official drink of the Derby and they are served in cool keepsake glasses. The Juleps cost us $9 and were not particularly big; though they were alllll bourbon. We later spent $8 on "Smirnoff Mist" cocktails (Vodka, Cranberry, Sierra Mist) at the Crown Royal tent and $7 on beers. Basically, bring "boozed up fruit" if you want to get buzzed cheap. I saw more than I ever wanted to see in the Infield, women flash men to get Mardi Gras beads and drinks, men walk around with their "business" hanging out for all to see...once again, no police enforcement.
Other than drinking, the Derby is about betting. I had never bet on horse racing and had no idea what I was doing but I had instructions from an absent friend to "put $20 on 12 to win," and I was advised to put $5 each on "win, place, or show," for a horse of my choosing. I went purely by my favorite number, 11, which was probably a poor choice as Z Humour had 70 to 1 odds against him by race time. "Win, place, or show," betting puts money on each the first, second, and third spots, so if your horse comes in any place you win some money. My horse came in 14th place. Whoops. I lost on 12, too. Bad luck.
We didn't see the tragic end to the race (the #5 filly that took second place broke both front legs and they were forced to euthanize it on the track) as we watched it from the third turn, and I'm glad about that.
Checking the Derby out is something that everyone should witness once in their lifetime! We met Derby goers from as far as Ireland and Hawaii! It's an easy hour and fifteen minutes down 75 from Cincinnati, so there really isn't a reason for tri-staters not to go. Remember to take your best hat, but hold onto it if it's a windy day (mine got lost in a gust that took it into the crowd). Alo, resist the urge to wear a flimsy sundress if it's a little breezy...I wish I had!
This year the crowd was almost 170,000, don't try the Infield if you're claustrophobic! -
Review from Julia B.
Nashville, TN
6/11/2008
It doesn't have to be Derby to enjoy Churchill Downs. Take out some cash, buy a mint julep upon arrival (just one though, they really aren't that tasty), and place your bets. This place is super fun for the whole family. You can get tickets in for $3 (slightly better ones in the shade for $10) on a Saturday, and feed the whole family for way less than a trip to the movies. Big beers are just $3 too (I mean that is less than half of the cost of a brewky at the Braves game) and if you read the betting instructions provided in the program, you might just win your money back!
Quick tip: there's a Graeter's Ice Cream located on the ground level, outside, and near the paddock. If you know what Graeter's is all about, then that's all I need to say. For the rest of you, it's a midwest ice cream institution (was really pleased to find one this far south) and you have to order an ice cream from their chip menu. That basically means it has chunks of quality chocolate in it that really take the whole ice cream experience up to a completely different level.
When you are done with your mint julep that's only mildly tasty, you'll need something else cool to keep your body temperature down in the southern weather and with all of that racing excitement, afterall. -
Review from Matt E.
Story City, IA
5/20/2010 2 Check-ins Here
My first horse race ever was at Churchill Downs in 2009. It was the Kentucky Oaks, and then the next day for the Derby. I had such an enjoyable time, I returned in 2010 for the Kentucky Derby
This is one of the greatest venues of Americana I have come across. The facility is historic but well kept. You can feel the history here but it's very nice up to date and clean. I particularly enjoyed following the winners plaques all the way around the concourse. The paddock allows you to get close to these multi-million dollar animals so you can fully appreciate their power and grace. It was a moving experience to be in this historic venue with these amazing creatures.
I had tickets for the Oaks, but I've spent the past two Derbies in the infield where you'll pay $40. It's a cross between a football tailgate, a concert and a state fair. In my opinion, it's the Derby's best value. A lot of jubilant friendly people having fun.
Betting is easy. As a complete novice the tellers were very helpful in showing me how to read the program and place bets. Teller windows are pervasive and easy to access in fast-moving lines.
I'd like to give particular credit to the folks at the parimutuel office. Their staff is the epitome of professionalism and courtesy. -
Review from Adam C.
Louisville, KY
8/5/2011
How could you visit Louisville and not stop in to see Churchill. If it is in season you can enjoy a day of racing , if not then the museum and a tour is a great way to spend an afternoon. Young and old alike are sure to have a good day at the track. After the remodeling the past few years , the place is amazing. If you are going to experience horse racing, this is the place to do it.
-
Review from Ryan C.
10/11/2008
Home of the "Best 2 Minutes in Sports" and no they aren't talking about my last nights performance with my lady! I cannot tell you how many times I've been here during the Spring and Fall meets. I used to walk in expecting to win. My worst day was breaking even. Churchill Downs is truly the classiest place in sports you will ever make it to. The 'Downs has been there for over 100 years and you can feel the history of the place as you walk in. The architecture is spectacular. There have been several renovations since I've last been.
If you ever get a chance to go during a meet, walk around an take note for the beauty of the place. Amazing. Great place to watch the ponies, place some bets, reunions, wedding (there is even a chapel and priest on site) and best of all The Kentucky Derby. Pay the money to go into the infield at least once in your life. However, if you remember the race...you didn't drink enough! You SHOULD leave the infield not remember much of what happened. Yes, that big of a party. If you go to the grandstand, put your Sunday best on and have a blast.
If you want to go enjoy some of the races for the meets and don't know how to bet, start off with small chump change bets. Pick 3 horses and place your bet "$2 across the board" No, it probably won't win you the big pay off, but you'll have fun with a chance of winning and not losing so much...if you do lose. -
Review from David I.
10/23/2010 2 Check-ins Here
We were there for the food show and there isn't much to say. It looks like a lot of racetracks that I've been to. Very nice, laid out well, and lots of history. but I wonder how much of the building is original.
-
Review from Jesse W.
Atlanta, GA
3/3/2008
While most people are going to experience Churchill Downs during the Derby, might I recommend you go on an "off" day. . . it'll let you really get the flavor of the place.
It is a great place to spend a day with friends. Stop by the museum while you're there. -
Review from Nathan L.
Park City, UT
5/8/2008
Not sure I can give a full review considering I was only in the infield, and was also mildly sober for the whole thing... But all in all it was a lot of fun going here and seeing everyone dressed up and getting caught up in the whole thing.
I am for sure looking forward to another infield trip next year and then maybe in a couple years I'll want to see what the grand stands are all about... -
Review from Neuro G.
Phoenix, AZ
1/17/2008
Fond memories of going to the track with Dad as little kid. The graceful horses, their sweet smell and cute whinnying when we would visit them on the backside or in the paddock. Watch out if they have diarrhea, though. Not so sweet. The "groundlings" that inhabit the areas around the betting windows (as Shakespeare termed his audience in the mosh pit at the Globe Theater) are quite a bit skankier, sketchier, and drunker, and, hence, stinkier, than the most dyspeptic horse.
You have to go to the Kentucky Derby once. You won't see much of the race, as the good seats are more than $10K. Therefore, you should go once during the regular season and spend a day. Do a little research on reading a form and handicapping and you'll have quite a bit more fun.
One star off for the recent revamp that has altered the classic appearance of the track.
It really is fun - and I hate gambling. -
Review from kiran g.
Nashville, TN
3/27/2011
Very good place to visit. I did not get a chance to see any race but the history of the place is amazing. Especially after I watched a movie - Secretariat, i was more interested in knowing about the place. Amazing tour!!! It was a short tour, the race area is great and the 360 degree movie was inspiring and cool. The museum was Ok and gift shop is adequate. A must go at least once in a life time.
-
Review from Jack B.
Incline Village, NV
12/15/2008
OK the Derby is a annual event, this place is improving the facility, but what a nightmare. Go to the Oaks the day before the Derby. If you attend on Mother;s Day you can sit in millionaires row for $40 and enjoy.
This race track is very old, and not in the best part of town. If it wasn't for the tradition this track would be out of business.
BTW the food is below average for what you get charged.
I quite honestly had a better time and better dining at the casino's across the river. -
Review from Uncle Bill T.
Old Sacramento, Sacramento, CA
12/30/2008
Oh. Churchhill Downer. I mean I've been there mucho times from the 60s on. Man, it has lost it's soul. If you like Vegas, Reno, or Panama City, this is the place for you! How about them there new casino-like buildings that you're paying for? Hell, split it up. One side for horsing around with the horses, the other for just plain gambling. This is the only way this tired horse/dog will run again.
Uncle Bill -
Review from Kathleen W.
Albany, CA
5/29/2008
Home of the Derby. Sat in the Millionaires Row which is AC'ed, had a buffet lunch and got an aerial view of the races. Friendliest bunch of employees ever - from the guy driving the golf cart in the parking lot to the door attendant who cheered me on.
Learned how to bet and won a trifecta on my very first race!!
Great way to spend a Thursday afternoon in Louisville!
GO BIG BROWN!! -
Review from Michael C.
Scottsdale, AZ
5/11/2010
If you ever find yourself in Louisville, KY - This is an absolute must stop. We had a blast here last Sunday, and even managed to win a race or two. The place is gigantic and a real spectacle when they are racing. Though even if they aren't running, the Derby Museum alone is worth a go.
-
Review from Martha H.
Nashville, TN
10/20/2010 1 Check-in Here
Churchill Downs needs no review- anyone visiting Louisville should know it's a must-see. A staple of Southern Culture, it doesn't get more wonderful than going to the races on a cool fall day and witnessing the majestic horses in a beautiful setting.
-
Review from Clyde R.
Carmel by the Sea, CA
9/29/2009
I could read a racing form before I was 6 years old.
I once picked a 99 - 1 shot. The horse's name was Six Penny Lane and the jockey was the tall, lanky Donald Pierce.
I was there at Santa Anita for Johnny Longden's last race aboard a big, chestnut colored horse named George Royal. The horse closed at around 6 - 1. This was Longden's last race and I knew in my heart that George and Longden would win. The word in the grandstands, however, was that George Royal and Johnny Longden were both washed up. The race was a long one, a mile and 3/4 and on the dirt, not an easy distance for a 59 year old man to ride.
The flag was up. The buzzer sounded. The gates opened. And they were off.
George Royal broke slowly and running across the grandstands for the first time, he was in last place. Plaque, the favorite, with Bobby Ussery aboard, took the lead. Around the first turn, Longden settled on his mount and pulled on the reins and eased him alongside the inner railing. Out of the turn and into the far straightaway, George and Longden began to falter, drifting farther and farther behind the pack. At one point, they were about 15 lengths behind the leader, an almost unimaginable amount of distance to regain. George began to slowly make up ground, however, and approaching the final turn Longden maneuvered his horse to the outer part of the track. Accelerating around the turn on the outside, George made his move, moving in thunderous strides, his hoofs turning up huge clumps of dirt that flew into the air behind him. Entering the final straightaway and approaching the grandstands for the final time, Londgen shot his mount onto the middle of the track directly challenging the leaders. The roar of the crowd echoing out of the depths of the cavernous grandstands began to rise in a deafening crescendo. Passing the grandstands, George caught Plaque and they were racing neck and neck, nose to nose down the straightaway. Ussery went to the whip; Longden, as he did on all his mounts, hand-rode his horse with calm but aggressive determination. Out of nowhere, Hill Rise, the beautiful, light gray horse who placed second in the Kentucky Derby 2 years earlier, began to gain rapidly. All 3 horses surged to the tape; it was too close to call: a photo finish.
The photo finish showed that George Royal had won by a quarter of a nose. I stood there in the midst of the massive crowd, this little kid with a marked-up, thoroughly analyzed racing form crumpled in his hands, happy that I had just witnessed one of the greatest moments in horse racing history.
Here, in Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, I came to pay homage to the great Kentucky Derby winners of the past. Some of my favorite horses raced here: Man O War, Swaps, Carry Back, Citation, Count Fleet, and so on. These horses were before my time; but, I knew about them, read about them, dreamt about them, loved them, and heard about them from the track devotees throughout my childhood years.
There's something majestic and beautiful about these horses running. They have such big hearts and determination. I came here to the Downs to pay my respects.
As an adult, I've never been to a race track. I am a gambler, however, I do take big risks. But, I'd never bet on a horse or a Lotto ticket or a card game in Vegas. I don't gamble that way, that's just not me. But, I'd put my last dime on me. There's nowhere else I'd rather put the future of my dreams and visions than in my hands and in my heart.
