April 29, 2026
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t expect to find parking close to the gates of Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby or Oaks days, so wear or bring an extra pair of comfortable shoes to walk to and from your car with.
- Bring sunscreen, even if it is cloudy.
- Make sure you charge your phone fully before you get there.
The 2026 Kentucky Derby is less than a week away, and folks are arriving in Louisville every day in preparation. It’s a Louisville staple, and this year marks 152 years of horse racing at the massive arena. If you’re planning to make your way to the tracks at Churchill Downs, though, it’s a good idea to do a little research on how to make your experience the best it can be, especially if it is your first time.
The Churchill Downs website is a great resource for information about the area, parking, dress code, prohibited items, and more. But, there’s a certain merit to picking the brains of locals. We’ve been here, we know the patterns, we live on these streets, and we’re aware of the little things that might save you an, “I wish I’d know that sooner,” in the the future.
From the people who go every year, here’s the Honeywick team’s tips for a good visit to Churchill Downs:
Diane’s Kentucky Derby Tips:
- Make sure to review rules on Churchill downs website for the specific day(s) you are going. Oaks and Derby rules are often different than other days.
- Things to bring:
- Comfy shoes! Unless you booked a drop-off and pick-up, assume you’ll be walking a lot. Even if you did book a ride, you’ll still have to walk through the Churchill Downs property to get to your seat, which may require some stairs as well.
- Sunscreen, even if it looks like it is overcast and especially if your seating is not covered.
- A poncho, since it might rain (every year something pops up).
- Paper towels or something to wipe off seats can be handy, depending on where your seat is.
- Make your Derby hair style one that does well with and without a hat in case your hat starts to be pest.
- Place at least one bet at the window in person, for the experience vs. only doing it via the online app.
- Certain drinks come in glasses that you may want to bring home. Keep that in mind in terms of how full your bag or purse is.
Carly’s Kentucky Derby Tips:
- Choose comfortable shoes for the day, or bring an extra pair with you. You’ll likely be walking and standing for most of the day.
- Don’t forget sunscreen and, if you’re not wearing a hat, be sure to apply some to your scalp and hairline.
- Pack a poncho, just in case. You never know what the weather will end up doing.
- If you’re taking an uber home, be patient because a lot of other people will be requesting rides at the same time, so the wait will be much longer and traffic will be much worse.
Samantha’s Kentucky Derby Tips:
- Be aware that most people will be walking a lot more than anticipated. The road closures are a well-known nightmare, and you cannot expect to pull right up to the gates and be let out without dropping some serious dough to do so.
- With that being said, bring comfortable shoes. Even if it’s a backup pair of flats in a bag (been there, done that, was grateful), having them for the walk in so your feet aren’t hurting in heels before the day even starts will save your day. Plus, the immediate relief of changing from heels to flats at the end of the day is worth the added weight to anyone’s purse.
- Speaking of purses, knowing that small bags or clear bags are the only type you’ll get into Churchill with is another important tip. It’s pretty common knowledge these days that big venues won’t let you bring in anything larger than a clutch unless it’s see-through, but when you have a million other details to think about like what you’re going to wear, how you’re going to accessorize, what you’re going to drink and which horses/jockeys you’re going to bet on, it can be easy to forget.
- Reading up on jockeys before getting to the tracks is another tip I wish I’d known years ago. While the horses are doing all the work to get from the starting gate to the finish line, those jockeys are the puppet masters and consistent jockeys usually mean consistent wins.
Grace’s Kentucky Derby Tips:
- Be prepared for the prices. Famous cocktails can be over $20, and even a water bottle will be much more expensive than you’re used to. Additionally, many of the concessions stands have moved to cashless service, so have a debit or credit card ready.
- Charge your phone! If you’re going to be placing bets on the online app, having it up and on will drain the battery quickly. Being at 100% to start the day will keep you from not having your phone available to locate your car or navigate through the increased traffic at the end of the day.
- Keep an eye on where you put your drink. There are lots of people around, so it’s not a great idea to put your cocktail glass on the ground. I have seen too many very expensive, full glasses be knocked over. You don’t want the sticky drink or broken glass where you’re standing, so keep a hold of your glasses!
- Get a program! This is where you’ll find the race schedule, jockey names and history, general information about betting, and Churchill Downs information, like a map and where the bathrooms are.
Maeve’s Kentucky Derby Tips:
- Carpooling is a great way to save on stress. If you are going with friends or can find a group to ride with, take the opportunity.
- Also regarding parking, if you are unfamiliar with the area, take a picture of your parking location, or place a pin in your phone map to avoid losing your car.
We wish you a happy Derby Week! Whether your watching online or at Churchill Downs in person, we’re glad that you’re taking part in Louisville history. Bet your money wisely, have fun, and we wish you luck!
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