If you ask for a list of iconic sport venues, Churchill Downs the home of the Kentucky Derby, often dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minute in Sports” would be at the top of it. Opened in 1875, it has more than 150 years of history including hosting the signature Kentucky Derby continuously including during both World Wars and Covid. Is the longest non-interrupted event held in the United States.
The racetrack was named for the family (John and Henry Churchill) that leased the initial 80 acres of land to build the site, done by Meriwether Lewis Clarck Jr. It was at the right time, since other tracks were closing. The property has evolved from the original design, today it holds more that 150,000 people during the Derby (using the infield), has luxury suites, and a big board that could fit 6 basketball courts.
Not all the renovations have been to increase capacity, in 2023 they inaugurated a new paddock that the horses use to prepare for their races and spectators can get close to the beautiful thoroughbred horses. In the property you will also find the Kentucky Derby Museum which focuses on the history of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs, a 2-story building that bring the interesting story of the best horse race in the world.
If you like horse racing or tune the TV every year to see the Kentucky Derby, going to the museum is a must. There you will find tons of information on how the race had become one of the top events in sports every year. One of the highlights in the museum is a movie run on a 360-degree theater, where they try to bring Derby Day emotion to the audience. The museum is a great half day of immersion to Kentucky thoroughbred horse racing.
Churchill Downs only has around 70 days of racing a year divided into 3 different meets, if you are planning to go make sure there are races, and you could do a full day of racing with good drinks and food while taking a chance with some bets. I would also recommend taking the Churchill Downs tour, this activity is almost half a day and start early in the morning watching horses practicing and you will have an inside view of the life at Churchill Downs.
A great activity if you are doing the Bourbon trail, and an awesome opportunity to know better Kentucky. Thanks for taking time to look at this post, please share it with your friends and sign in to receive our updates; also follow us on Instagram, and Facebook search for #BORICUASLIVINGABROAD. Until next time…
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