Kentucky Derby Packages
The Kentucky Derby is the culmination of an annual, two-day horse racing spectacle held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Established in 1875, it is the longest-running sporting event in the United States and has grown into one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. Often called “the most exciting two minutes in sports”, the Kentucky Derby features the fastest three-year-old Thoroughbreds competing in a one-and-a-quarter-mile race, with the winner securing a place in horse racing history. This iconic event is the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. It consistently draws a far greater crowd than all other stakes races, as it captivates both dedicated horse racing fans and casual spectators. Beyond the race itself, the Kentucky Derby is a full-fledged cultural event, known for its elaborate fashion, extravagant hats, and traditional mint julep cocktails. Celebrities, socialites, and racing enthusiasts gather to experience the Derby’s unique blend of Southern charm, high-stakes competition, and historic pageantry.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
Aside from witnessing one of the most thrilling horse races in history, the 2025 Kentucky Derby offers a variety of enjoyable experiences. The venue provides food and beverages, along with an up-close view of the race from the infield or reserved seating. There are also many parties and special events that cater to all tastes. A few highlights include: • Taste of Derby: Enjoy an evening of gourmet dishes and drink pairings on the eve of the Kentucky Oaks. • Backstretch Tour at Dawn at Churchill Downs: This behind-the-scenes tour gives you a unique chance to get close to the horses, owners, trainers, and jockeys at Churchill Downs. • Mint Julep Sunset Social: Learn how to run a top-tier farm, craft your own Mint Julep cocktail, and savor a family-style farm-to-table Southern dinner at a beautiful 19th-century farm estate.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
You can expect plenty of on-site amenities to assist you during your stay. These include: • First aid station • Food and beverage vendors • Wheelchair accessibility • Nursing rooms • Lost and found • Wagering counters • Memorabilia concessions
LOCATION
The 2025 Kentucky Derby is held at Churchill Downs. 700 Central Avenue Louisville, Kentucky 40215
LINEUP
Celebrate the biggest weekend of the year with the best parties and live events that Louisville has to offer! Festivities start the week before the race, with Friday and Saturday being the main event days. The race itself is held late Saturday, May 3rd. A complete schedule of events and parties is said to be announced sometime in February of 2025 or soon thereafter. Check the website for event updates.
RVING AT THE EVENT
Whether you own an RV or rent one through RVshare, this is the way to go when attending the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Not only does it save you additional costs on hotel accommodations, but it also gives you a cozy bed, private bathroom, and fully-stocked fridge to come back home to after the festivities. While there isn’t any camping or RVing on the grounds of Churchill Downs, there are plenty of RV parks in Louisville that are close to the venue. Here are just a few to choose from: • Brooks RV Park is considered the safest RV Campground in the Louisville area. It is beautifully landscaped with 77 full hook-up RV sites and is located just 1.8 miles from I-65. The grounds are located near Churchill Downs and Downtown Louisville. You’ll find a bubbling brook, a dog walk area, a dump station, and laundry facilities. • Chimney Rock RV Park & Campground is located in the town of Harrodsburg, Kentucky. This Louisville area campground is relatively small, and it is situated on the shores of Herrington Lake. There is a marina on-site, and this RV park also features a grassy playground. You will enjoy 30/50 amp hookups, a pool, shower facilities, and Wi-Fi access. • Derby Park Campground & RV Park is a large facility located right in downtown Louisville. It is the closest RV park in Louisville to Churchill Downs. There are 20, 30, and 50 Amp electric hookups, 24-hour security, restrooms and showers, and free Wi-Fi. While this park is in an urban setting, it is very convenient to the race venue, and a variety of Derby packages are offered.
WHERE TO STAY
There are a number of hotels located near Churchill Downs. The Galt House Hotel is the Official Host Hotel of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, located in the heart of downtown on Louisville’s vibrant waterfront and just minutes from the race track. Other hotels include: •Crowne Plaza Hotel Expo Center is close to Louisville Airport. It has been newly renovated. Well-appointed rooms are reasonably priced. There is an on-site restaurant and fitness center. •Four Points by Sheraton Louisville Airport is also near the airport. This hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a bar. •Super 8 by Wyndham Louisville/Expo Center is located off I-65 close to many popular area attractions that give you a taste of what Kentucky has to offer. Free light breakfast is included. This hotel is budget-friendly.
HOW TO GET THERE
From St. Louis and Points West: Take I-264 East to Exit 9 - Taylor Blvd. Turn left traveling north on Taylor Blvd. Turn right on Central Ave. and then right onto Kentucky Derby Drive to enter Churchill Downs. From Lexington and Nashville: Take I-264 West to Exit 10 - Third St./Southern Pkwy. Turn right heading north on Third St. or Southern Pkwy. to Central Ave. Turn left on Central Ave. Turn left onto Kentucky Derby Drive to enter Churchill Downs. From Indianapolis and downtown Louisville: Take I-65 South to Exit 132 - Crittenden Drive (exit will veer to the right). Continue straight onto Crittenden Drive. Take the first right at Central Ave. intersection. Continue straight on Central Ave. Turn left onto Kentucky Derby Drive to enter Churchill Downs.
PARKING
There are many options for parking when visiting the 2025 Kentucky Derby. If you choose to purchase a parking pass (or it’s part of your ticket), then you can check the color on your hang tag to find your specific lot. If you haven’t purchased a parking pass, then you have two options. You can park at Cardinal Stadium, then make the short walk to Churchill Downs. Alternatively, you can park in one of the neighborhoods surrounding Churchill Downs.
TICKETS & PRICING
There is a variety of ticket packages for purchase, starting at $160 for general admission and up to $135,000 for a private suite. Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.
WRAP UP
At RVshare, we love helping people combine their passion for adventure and travel with some of the world’s most iconic events. Attending the 2025 Kentucky Derby is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but staying in an RV rental from RVshare takes it to the next level. Not only does it offer comfortable and flexible accommodations, but it also allows you to explore the beautiful Kentucky countryside, visit historic landmarks, and truly immerse yourself in the Derby experience. Renting an RV for the Kentucky Derby means you can enjoy the thrill of the races while still having a home base to return to. Whether you choose to stay at a nearby RV park or a campground with scenic views, an RV rental ensures that your trip is as much about the journey as the destination. For updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exciting race day moments, be sure to follow Kentucky Derby event organizers and participants on Facebook. Stay tuned for fun recaps, insider tips, and 2025 event details to help you plan the perfect trip!
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page .
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