Louisville: Churchill Downs Track Tour & Kentucky Derby Museum

Summary

Churchill Downs history, Derby legends and the rush of race day

You’ll step into Churchill Downs with a local guide, watch an immersive 360° Derby film that puts you in the center of race day, and walk beside the legendary track itself. Explore two floors of interactive exhibits at the Kentucky Derby Museum — and maybe catch a laugh or two along the way. There’s something about standing by that rail that just sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous walking up to Churchill Downs — not sure if I’d feel out of place among all that racing history. But then our guide, Janet (who’s lived in Louisville her whole life), greeted us with this big smile and a “Y’all ready for some Derby magic?” I didn’t expect to laugh so much right away. The Kentucky Derby Museum itself is brighter than I pictured, full of hats and old silks and even the faint smell of popcorn drifting from the café. Kids were darting around, but it never felt crowded or stiff.

The 360-degree film — “The Greatest Race” — actually got my heart pounding. You stand in this circular room while the sound of hooves thunders all around you. For a second I forgot it wasn’t real; someone behind me even let out a little cheer when Secretariat crossed the finish line on screen. After that, Janet took us outside for our guided track visit. The weather was doing that Kentucky thing where it can’t decide if it’s hot or humid or both, but nobody seemed to mind.

Standing right by the rail, looking out over that dirt track where every Kentucky Derby winner has run… honestly, it gave me goosebumps. Janet pointed out where the horses burst from the gate and told us about Aristides, the very first winner back in 1875 (I had no idea). She even let us ask anything — someone wanted to know what happens to all those hats after race day. Apparently there’s a whole closet somewhere just for them! We wandered back through the grandstands, imagining what it must sound like with thousands cheering. It’s quieter on non-race days but you can almost hear echoes if you listen long enough.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Kentucky Derby Museum and Track

• Explore two floors of exhibits
• Watch 360-degree movie "The Greatest Race"
• Join guided tour of Churchill Downs track
• Walk through Grandstands and track rail

Top questions

How long is the guided track visit at Churchill Downs?

The guided track visit lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Is general admission to the Kentucky Derby Museum included?

Yes, general admission to all museum exhibits is included with your ticket.

Are tours wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and free wheelchair rentals are available upon request.

What does the 360-degree film experience involve?

The 18-minute film surrounds you with sights and sounds from Derby Day using immersive projection technology.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children are welcome and infants or small kids can use strollers or prams inside.

Does this tour run rain or shine?

Yes, tours depart rain or shine except during severe weather when rescheduling may be possible.

Is parking available at Churchill Downs?

Yes, free visitor parking is available in several lots near the museum depending on live racing schedules.

What’s included

Your experience includes general admission access to all exhibits at the Kentucky Derby Museum, an 18-minute immersive 360-degree film called “The Greatest Race,” plus a 30-minute guided track visit at Churchill Downs led by a local guide—rain or shine.