Kentucky Derby | Churchill Downs

Saturday, May 2, 2026
Louisville, Kentucky

Held annually on the first weekend in May at the iconic Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby are two of the most celebrated events in American horse racing. The Kentucky Oaks, run on Friday, features the top three-year-old fillies and sets the tone with a spirited atmosphere marked by fashion, tradi...

Contact Us

Contact Us

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name(Required)
This field is hidden when viewing the form
Prev Next

Kentucky Oaks & Derby Hospitality Inclusions

  • Premium reserved seating (indoor table, outdoor box, or covered grandstand depending on package)

  • Access to exclusive hospitality spaces (e.g., Turf Club, Stakes Room, Finish Line Suites, etc.)

  • Gourmet food & beverage service

    • Chef-curated meals and upscale buffet options

    • Open bar with premium spirits, beer, wine, and signature cocktails (like the Mint Julep)

  • Climate-controlled indoor lounges for comfort and socializing

  • Private betting stations and self-service wagering kiosks

  • Dedicated waitstaff or in-seat service (venue dependent)

  • Private restrooms with minimal wait times

  • VIP entrance access to avoid general admission lines

  • Event-day programs and official Derby/Oaks souvenirs

  • Live entertainment & celebrity appearances (in select areas)

  • On-site concierge service to assist with any needs

  • Exclusive viewing decks with panoramic views of the track (select venues only)

  • Access to post-race parties or premium hospitality events (where applicable)

R3M Preferred Accommodations

The Galt House

140 N Fourth St, Louisville, KY 40202 | Located 7.0 miles from Churchill Downs

On 4th & Main, the Galt House is where guests come to experience, immerse and delight in Louisville’s winning spirit. No other hotel can grant guests access to the city like we can, from our central location in the heart of the business community, museum district, cultural center and Urban Bourbon Trail, to our unique waterfront location. Our status as the “official hotel” of all that matters makes us Louisville’s always-iconic hotel and ultimate lifestyle destination, reflective of Louisville’s energy, excitement and contemporary spirit.

Check-In: 3:00 PM

Check Out: 11:00 AM

 

Omni Louisville

400 S 2nd St, Louisville, KY 40202 | Located 3.8 miles from Churchill Downs

At Omni Louisville Hotel, experiences are tailored to the history and rhythm of the city. Take a dip in the heated rooftop pool, dine with family or bowl with friends while sipping signature cocktails at Pin + Proof, our Prohibition-style speakeasy. Relax at the full-service Mokara Spa or enjoy built-in entertainment and uninterrupted connectivity in one of 612 charming guest accommodations. Our downtown Louisville hotel is steps from the Kentucky International Convention Center and plenty of things to do in the city. Main Street, Fourth Street Live, Whiskey Row Distilleries and Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory are all less than a mile away from our hotel in Louisville, KY. You’ll also be a quick drive away from Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and University of Louisville.

Check-In: 3:00 PM

Check Out: 11:00 AM

 

21c

700 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202 | Located 4.1 miles from Churchill Downs

Located on Main Street’s historic Museum Row in the heart of Bourbon Country, 21c Museum Hotel Louisville is the world’s first museum hotel. Blending contemporary art and historic architecture, this unique hotel experience offers an inspiring space for culture, creativity, and comfort.

Check-In: 3:00 PM

Check Out: 11:00 AM

 

Private Home(s)

Handpicked home(s) chosen specifically for your group and desired amenities.

 

Thursday, April 30, 2026

Thursday: Arrival & Welcome

All Day | Arrival in Louisville

  • Private airport transfers to the hotel

  • Check in at your preferred accommodations (e.g., The Galt House, 21c Museum Hotel, or Omni Louisville, or Private Home(s)

*Optional* Evening | Welcome Reception

  • Cocktail hour with signature Derby drinks (Mint Juleps, Old Fashioneds)

  • Bourbon tasting experience led by a local expert or master distiller

  • Seated welcome dinner featuring Southern cuisine and live entertainment

  • Derby betting tips & insights from a horse racing analyst or former jockey

Friday, May 1, 2026

Morning | Leisurely Start or Optional Excursion

  • Gourmet breakfast at the hotel

  • Optional morning activities:

    • Private bourbon distillery tour (e.g., Woodford Reserve or Angel’s Envy)

    • Spa treatments or golf outing

    • Boutique shopping in NuLu or West Main District

Midday to Evening | Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs

  • Private transportation to Churchill Downs

  • Premium seating or private suite access

  • Gourmet food & beverage service throughout the day

  • Paddock access, betting concierge, and race-day hosts

  • Return to hotel following final race

*Optional* Evening | Dinner or Free Night

  • Recommendations and reservations at top Louisville restaurants (e.g., Jeff Ruby’s, Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse, or Private Chef Dinner)

  • Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala
    • The Barnstable Brown Kentucky Derby Eve Gala is a premier black-tie charity event held annually on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby at the Louisville home of Patricia Barnstable Brown. Established in 1987 by Patricia and her twin sister Priscilla, the gala has become a hallmark of Derby Week, renowned for its celebrity-studded guest list and philanthropic mission.

Saturday, May 2, 2026

  • Private transportation to the track

  • Exclusive hospitality access (e.g., Millionaires Row, Turf Club, or private suite, 3rd Floor Clubhouse)

  • Gourmet fare, open bar, and elevated race-day experience

  • Betting assistance and real-time race insight

  • Witness “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”

*Optional* Evening | After-Party

  • Access to Derby after-party or private celebration

  • Live music, dancing, and bourbon-inspired cocktails

  • Late-night bites and lounge access

Sunday, May 3, 2026

Departure

Private Transportation is included on Friday & Saturday.

Guaranteed assistance with airport transfers upon request.

Louisville, Kentucky

Travel Time

10 Minutes

Distance

6.7 Miles

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Louisville is both easily accessible and centrally located within the Midwest and Southeast. Whether you’re driving or flying, getting here is simple.

By Air

Primary: Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)

Just 10 minutes from downtown, SDF offers nonstop service to over 30 destinations across the U.S. and frequent connections to major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and Dallas. It’s served by Delta, American, United, Southwest, and others.

Regional Airports Nearby

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – 1.5 hours northeast

  • Blue Grass Airport – Lexington (LEX) – 1 hour east

  • Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – 2 hours north

  • Nashville International Airport (BNA) – 2.5 hours south

Private and charter flights are also available at Bowman Field (LOU), just 15 minutes from downtown.

By Car

Louisville is a major crossroad for interstates I-64, I-65, and I-71, making it easily drivable from a wide range of cities:

City Drive Time
Cincinnati, OH 1.5 hrs
Lexington, KY 1 hr
Indianapolis, IN 2 hrs
Nashville, TN 2.5 hrs
Columbus, OH 3 hrs

Preferred Seating Locations

3rd Floor Clubhouse

Overview:
Located above the main trackside seating, the 3rd Floor Clubhouse provides a blend of elevated views and upscale experience without being overly exclusive.

Access & Seating:

  • Reserved stadium-style box seating with direct views of the finish line and homestretch

  • Covered and partially enclosed, protecting from sun and rain

  • Private entry gates and escalator access to upper levels

Hospitality Services:

  • Access to Clubhouse concessions and bars (all-inclusive)

  • Betting windows and self-service machines nearby

  • Optional in-seat wait service (in select areas)

  • Climate-controlled lounges available in adjacent areas

  • Dress code typically smart casual or track chic

Best For:
Groups looking for premium race views with a lively, social atmosphere.

Turf Club

Overview:
The Turf Club is one of Churchill Downs’ most prestigious options, offering a refined and intimate race-day experience.

Access & Seating:

  • Indoor table seating with large glass windows overlooking the track

  • Balcony access with premium outdoor seating

  • Private valet and check-in entry

Hospitality Services:

  • Gourmet à la carte dining and fine wine service

  • Full-service bar with top-shelf offerings

  • Personal concierge and betting concierge available

  • Climate-controlled luxury interior

  • Strict dress code: jackets/blazers for men, elegant attire for women

Best For:
High-level corporate hosting, celebrities, and guests looking for discreet, top-tier service.

Stakes Room

Overview:
The Stakes Room caters to racing enthusiasts, owners, and corporate VIPs with elevated dining and private viewing.

Access & Seating:

  • Located near the finish line above the Clubhouse

  • Private suite-style atmosphere

  • Indoor seating with private table arrangements and reserved balcony access

Hospitality Services:

  • Multi-course dining with curated menus

  • Full bar and premium beverage service

  • Private wagering concierge and service staff

  • Quiet, upscale ambiance for serious racing fans and business conversations

  • Business casual to dressy attire recommended

Best For:
Discerning guests seeking a quiet, luxurious space to entertain or focus on racing action.

Client Testimonials

“Very well executed program. The attention to detail was apparent and it was great seeing familiar faces from last year – you have a great team. Loved how the agenda was laid out in a way that allowed each attendee to choose how much they wanted to “engage” with the tournament, while still having access to your amenities at the hotel. The quality of food for all evening events was fantastic. Specific kudos on the plated seven-course wine pairing experience. That is very hard to do well with that size group, the execution was flawless.”

“All we have to say is world class! The transportation and coordination was perfect. Food was good and the added touches were excellent! Everyone is talking about the golf and the overall experience. Additionally, those within my organization who could not make the trip are asking me for your information to plan something with you! Good news!”

“– really great event. Our guests loved it and I thought it was really a first-class experience. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

“crushed it.”

“I already gave you and the team raving reviews.”

“Our customers enjoyed themselves and everything was first class. The logistics were seamless.”

R3M. EXCELLENCE, ACCELERATED. LET’S GO.