Official Kentucky Derby 2026 Hotels, Tickets & Hospitality

Experience the Kentucky Derby: The Ultimate Bucket‑List Racing Weekend

The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville is one of the most iconic and electrifying sporting events on the planet — known as “The Run for the Roses” for its tradition of draping the winning horse in a garland of roses and thrilling fans with 10 furlongs of pure racing intensity. More than just a race, it’s a bucket‑list celebration of speed, fashion, pageantry, and Southern charm that draws visitors from around the world every May.

Attending the Derby is about more than the two‑minute race — it’s soaking up the unique atmosphere of Derby Week, from vibrant parties and stylish hats to watching the world’s best three‑year-olds thunder down the stretch alongside tens of thousands of cheering fans. Whether sipping a mint julep or joining the festivities, the Kentucky Derby is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.

Why book with Racing Breaks

Official Tickets & Hospitality

We only provide official tickets & hospitality to the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

Exclusive Events

From Stud Farm visits, behind the scenes tours of Churchill Downs and distillery tours our trip is more than just the racing

Bespoke Experiences

Let our team of racing & travel experts build you your perfect itinerary with your choice of hotel, hospitality and more.

On-site Team

You’ll be joined by our team of racing & travel experts who will be on hand to assist you 24/7 to ensure you have the best trip.

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The Kentucky Derby with Racing Breaks

We create bespoke travel packages that immerse you in every unforgettable moment — from official hospitality and premium race day access to personalised itineraries and exclusive cultural experiences.

Whether you’re aiming to feel the electrifying thrill of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs from prime grandstand or hospitality vantage points, soak in the timeless pageantry of Derby Week festivities with curated events and social gatherings, or explore the rich traditions of Kentucky — from distillery tours and stud farm visits to local culinary highlights — our expertly crafted packages offer something extraordinary for every traveller.

Overview

Day 1

Tuesday 28th April 2026

Upon arrival into Louisville you’ll check into the hotel and get comfortable before heading out for some welcome drinks to get to know your fellow guests and then enjoy dinner with “Mr Derby”.

Day 1

Day 2

Wednesday 29th April 2026

After breakfast you’ll head off on a tour to explore the home of racehorses in America, Lexington!
You’ll visit Keeneland and its sales complex before heading to a world-class stud farm to see some stallions.
You’ll then enjoy lunch before heading back to Louisville and you’ll have the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 2

Day 3

Thursday 30th April 2026

After a relaxed morning you’ll head out to the local Angels Envy Distillery for a Bourbon tasting experience to find out just what makes it such a popular drink in Kentucky!
You’ll then head to the “Taste of the Derby” party where you can mingle with horse racing celebrities whilst enjoying food & drink.

Day 3

Day 4

Friday 1st May 2026

After breakfast you’ll board your transportation to Churchill Downs ready for the first day of racing, including the Kentucky Oaks!
With undercover designated seats on the 3rd floor of the grandstand you’ll be well placed to take in all the action. You’ll also have access to hospitality at dedicated food & beverage outlets.

Day 4

Day 5

Saturday 2nd May 2026

After breakfast you’ll return to Churchill Downs for day two and the main event, the Kentucky Derby!
You’ll have access to the same seats and hospitality as on Friday, so you’ll be familiar with your location and can make the most of the full day of racing action!

Day 5

Day 6

Sunday 3rd May 2026

After a busy couple of days racing today is a more relaxing one! You’ll head out for lunch to enjoy your final full day in Louisville. You’ll then have the remainder of the day at leisure to explore or relax!

Day 6

Day 7

Monday 4th May 2026

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then depending on the time of your flight home, head out to explore more of Louisville, or make your way back to the airport to head home after an action packed few days!

Day 7

Kentucky Derby Experiences

Kentucky Derby Ticket / Hospitality Options

Churchill Downs offer a wide range of ticket & hospitality options for the Kentucky Derby and our team of experts have first-hand experience meaning we only suggest the best options and locations.

Our recommended options can be found below – due to the Kentucky Derby’s popularity these packages do sell out fast so booking early is essential.

If you have any alternative package in mind, get in touch and our team will be happy to build you a personalised quote.

The Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is one of the most iconic horse races in the world.

Known as “The Run for the Roses,” it features the top three-year-old Thoroughbreds racing over a mile and a quarter in a dazzling display of speed, stamina, and spirit.

More than just a race, the Derby is a cultural phenomenon – steeped in tradition, from mint juleps and extravagant hats to the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home.”

Attending the Derby is to witness a uniquely American blend of pageantry, excitement, and history, all in one unforgettable weekend.

Friday 1st May 2026

Kentucky Oaks

The Run‑for‑the‑Lilies kicks off the highlight weekend with the Longines Kentucky Oaks, a prestigious Grade I race for three‑year‑old fillies offering a rich purse and rich tradition. Held the day before the Derby, Oaks Day is also known for its spirited “Pink Out” celebrations in support of breast cancer awareness, making it both a major racing contest and a vibrant fashion and social event.

Saturday 2nd May 2026

Kentucky Derby

The following day sees the running of the Kentucky Derby, often called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®” and the first jewel of the Triple Crown. This iconic Grade I 1⅛‑mile race for three‑year‑olds draws elite horses and huge crowds, combining thrilling on‑track drama with deep‑rooted traditions, bold fashion and festive atmosphere at one of the sport’s most historic venues.

If desired, we can include return flights within your experience.

There are both direct and indirect options from the UK airports to Louisville & Lexington.

Upgrades to Premium Economy, Business & First Class are available upon request.

Reviews

"An absolutely unforgettable trip! The Kentucky Derby has always been on our bucket list, and Racing Breaks made the whole experience completely seamless. From the hotel to raceday transfers and tickets, everything was perfectly organised. We didn’t have to worry about a thing — just enjoy the atmosphere, the fashion, and of course ‘the most exciting two minutes in sports’. Worth every penny and we’ll definitely book again!"

Simon, 2025

"As first-time visitors to the Kentucky Derby, we weren’t sure what to expect, but this trip exceeded all expectations. The itinerary was well thought out, the hotel was excellent, and the team were on hand throughout the weekend. The build-up to race day, the crowds, and the experience at Churchill Downs were incredible. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime trip done properly"

Sally, 2025

"What a weekend! The Kentucky Derby is so much more than just a race — it’s an entire experience, and Racing Breaks captured it perfectly. Great hotel, easy transport, and a brilliant group atmosphere with fellow racegoers. Everything ran smoothly, which meant we could focus on enjoying ourselves. From the pre-race buzz to the big race itself, it was unforgettable. Already looking at next year!"

Patricia, 2025

Simon, 2025

Sally, 2025

Patricia, 2025

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Kentucky Derby