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It’s hard to narrow down the top reasons to visit Louisville. Some might say it’s the city’s most famous export – bourbon and its goldmine of start-up distilleries pioneering a booming bourbon renaissance. Others might mention the region's hive of outdoor action – including golfing, kayaking the Ohio River, or ambling through Cherokee Park. And, of course, it would be silly to mention Louisville without waxing lyrical about its legendary fried chicken.
Either way, we all can agree that Louisville is a multi-layered city with something for everyone.
However, if we were to whittle down a highlight, it might just be the Kentucky Derby. Voted by Travel + Leisure, Fodor’s, and Reader’s Digest as a top reason to visit, it's considered the longest continually run annual sporting event in the United States – with the inaugural race taking place in May 1875.
Next year, on 2 May, the 152nd edition of the iconic horse race will take place at the Churchill Downs – a historic landmark and must-visit spot when heading to Louisville.
Living history
Founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. – grandson of famed explorer William Clark – Churchill Downs began life in the 1870s as the Louisville Jockey Club.
As the sport’s popularity soared, so too did the venue. By 1895, a new grandstand had opened, complete with the now-iconic twin spires that still crown the track today.
The Churchill Downs experience is truly unrivalled – and it’s only getting better. More than $25m is currently being invested in renovations to the Finish Line Suites, Trophy Room, and The Mansion. The result? Greater vibrancy, improved guest flow, and enhanced amenities across the board.
An actually fun museum
Want to learn more about the story of this iconic horse race? Head to the Kentucky Derby Museum and soak up the world-renowned derby traditions, history, and pride.
With a general admission ticket, visitors can enjoy two floors of interactive exhibits, a half-hour guided historic walking tour at Churchill Downs racetrack, and get the tears flowing during the museum’s signature short film, ‘The Greatest Race’.
Dress to impress
With nearly 175,000 spectators attending the Kentucky Derby, it’s as much of a fashion show as a horse race.
Modelled after the Epsom Derby in the UK, Kentucky Derby fashion brings a hint of English sophistication with a heavy dose of southern flare where visitors are known to sport a throng of bright coloured outfits appropriate for the springtime event.
It’s all about seersucker suits and bowties for men, while ladies focus on flouncy hats with huge flowers and bowls. More really is more when it comes to race day.
Riding high
Whether you fancy sipping mint juleps from Millionaires Row or exploring the Bluegrass heartland on a fully escorted six-night escape, Racing Breaks will get you to the Derby in style.
Its bespoke itineraries blend Southern charm with seamless hospitality – think exclusive parties, bourbon distillery tours, and behind-the-scenes access courtesy of legendary trainer Gai Waterhouse.
A three-night stay at the centrally located Galt House puts you within easy reach of Louisville’s Whiskey Row, with grandstand seating and all-day Affirmed Lounge indulgence at Churchill Downs. Or go the whole furlong with the premium escorted experience: a stud farm and Keeneland tour, Derby-eve gala, and prime grandstand views for the Oaks and the main event.
Looking to elevate your Derby day even further? Millionaires Row offers panoramic track views, gourmet buffets, premium pours and a private balcony directly on the finish line.
For those just after tickets and top-tier hospitality, Racing Breaks has you covered there, too – with handpicked packages from those who know the turf best.
A winning cocktail
In the 1930s, the Kentucky Derby proclaimed its official cocktail the mint julep – which helped popularise the tipple to worldwide acclaim.
A derby-time tradition for nearly 90 years, this springtime sipper is made with simple syrup, ice, mint, and of course, Kentucky Bourbon. Woodford Reserve is a favourite choice for the mint julep – and not just because it’s been the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby since 1999.
Woodford Reserve's rich and layered flavour profile – with notes of toffee, spice, citrus, and a hint of chocolate – pairs beautifully with the freshness of mint. Its higher rye content gives it a gentle peppery kick and a dry finish – this spice plays well against the syrupy elements of a julep, keeping the cocktail crisp and lively. And despite its complexity, Woodford is remarkably smooth, making it ideal for sipping slowly – exactly what a julep calls for on a warm afternoon.
Other Derby day staples include small triangle-cut sandwiches filled with pimento cheese or Benedictine – a creamy cucumber spread, plus some version of Louisville’s official sandwich – the Hot Brown.
Beyond the Derby
On the topic of must-visit Louisville spots, there are some classic attractions you must add to your checklist beyond the derby.
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory offers a glimpse into the world of American baseball, and there are ample opportunities to float around, butterfly-like, on a self-guided tour of Muhammad Ali’s old stomping grounds.
We'd kick ourselves if we didn’t suggest a trip to Louisville's urban bourbon distilleries on Whiskey Row to meet some of the state’s coolest craftsmen. And after all those mint juleps, it's always worth a trip to Woodford Reserve's historic distillery to pick up a couple of bottles so you can take a taste of Kentucky home with you.
To find out more about Louisville visit bourboncity.co.uk
