Churchill Downs: The Ultimate Horse Racing Destination
One of Louisville's most famous attractions is undoubtedly Churchill Downs. This historic racetrack is steeped not only in the proud Kentucky tradition of horse breeding, training, and racing, but also in the role that these noble animals have played throughout the Commonwealth's history. Churchill Downs' famous Twin Spires stretch majestically over a racetrack that has played host to world leaders, celebrities, and guests from nearly every country across the globe. Today, Churchill Downs is a national landmark that offers both insight into the history of horse racing in Kentucky and a thoroughly modern and exciting horse racing experience.
In operation since 1875, Churchill Downs is named after John and Henry Churchill, the men who originally leased 80 acres of their land for the building of Churchill Downs racetrack. Today, Churchill Downs encompasses 147 acres of land located in the heart of Louisville, and plays host to millions of spectators yearly. Churchill Downs is by far the most renown horse racing venue in America, hosting over 250,000 guests during the Kentucky Derby and Oaks races alone.
The Kentucky Derby, known worldwide as "The Most Exciting 2 Minutes In Sports," has run each year at Churchill Downs since its opening in 1875. Churchill Downs also hosts a number of other important equine events and races including the 2011 Breeders' Cup, the Kentucky Oaks, the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic, the Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Clark Handicap.
Churchill Downs hosts two horse racing meets yearly. The Spring Meet begins one week prior to the Kentucky Derby and continues until early July, while the Fall Meet is shorter, lasting from late October until Thanksgiving weekend. Churchill Downs held night races for the first time in its 136-year history in 2009, and due to their overwhelming popularity, will continue to offer some night racing events each year for the foreseeable future.
The Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs, featuring many exhibits about horse training, racing and history, is open year-round. In addition, Churchill Downs hosts live music and entertainment events each year, and can also host large private parties or corporate events.
General admission tickets to Churchill Downs are $3 (excluding the Kentucky Derby and Oaks), seniors are $1, and children 12 and under are free. Group tickets are available at special pricing, and handicap accessible seating is available. VIP ticket packages and Skye Terrace seating is available by calling 502-636-4400, or by visiting Churchill Downs on the web.
Posted on Jun 27, 2011 by Matt Stottmann
