A Guide To Churchill Downs
There is nothing quite like watching the most exciting two minutes in sports at the iconic Churchill Downs, the world’s most famous horse racing track, with its distinctive twin spires. There have always been a lot of options that could rightfully be called the best spot to enjoy the show, but in the runup to the historic 150th race, the track invested more than $200 million in improvements. The biggest change was the demolition and complete rebuild of the multilevel Paddock building, which more than doubled in size and now includes the stables along with food, drink, numerous VIP lounges and much more. This is now the center of the action, and the seating selection here is better than ever. Additionally, all reserve seat packages at Churchill Downs now include some menu of complimentary food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, though the selections run from basic to very fancy. All reserved seats are sold as two-day packages, including Friday’s Kentucky Oaks and Derby on Saturday. And yes, this is a cigar-friendly facility, to a point. Cigars are sold at the track, and smoking is allowed in open-air areas, but not where food and drinks are intended to be consumed. Also, get ready to use your fingers or teeth (or clip ahead) as cigar cutters are expressly prohibited, so come prepared.
Prime Spots
Luxury Dining Clubs
Traditionally, the luxury VIP experiences at Churchill Downs have been found at numerous club suites, each with its own food and bar, most with private betting windows. Many of these have outdoor terraces for watching the races. There are now 23 distinct options for what the track calls “Luxury & Dining” venues, including famous choices such as Millionaires Row and the Aristides Lounge. A stellar choice is the reimagined Turf Club Balcony & Terrace, says Brock Richards, vice president of Derby Experiences, the official hospitality package provider for the race. He says “it is known to be frequented by VIPs for its all-inclusive, luxury experience. Located on the third floor of the Paddock, it provides fans with a private bar and tableside cocktail service, personal wagering stations and outdoor seating with breathtaking views.”
Want tables with views directly into the horse stalls for an insider’s take on what horse may be ready to run to glory? Consider the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club and Club SI, which Richards describes as ultra- dining options. “Both clubs offer jaw-dropping views of the coveted Paddock—including tables with views directly into the horse stalls,” he says. “These showcase first-of-its-kind access and the best opportunity to get close to the racehorses—nearly as close to the horses as their owners and trainers.” The Woodford Club has the added bonus of “a private never-before-seen rose-covered tunnel that leads directly to the lawn of the Paddock.” Both ground level clubs mix indoor and outdoor spaces, with viewing spots right on the rail just before the finish line. Derby Experience packages for the Turf Club, Club SI and the Woodford Paddock begin at $6,300 per person.
The Homestretch Club
A former bleacher section along the final stretch of the racecourse has been transformed into all-inclusive seating “boxes,” each holding up to 10 people with soft seats in the shape of a horseshoe right along the rail. The Club also has a private lounge area. For groups of 10, these boxes start at $7,400.
The Turn 1 Experience
In the past, temporary seats were deployed here but now the area has been upgraded to all-inclusive permanent stadium seating with significantly improved amenities. First Turn Reserved Seating begins at $1,495 per person, with an included slate of food as well as adult drinks.
Grandstand
The most traditional reserved seating comes in two styles, bleacher seats or six-seat boxes, both in packages with included food and drink menu. These are located near the starting line, and remaining options begin at about $1,100 per person.
Paddock General ission
New for the 150th event is a general ission option outside of the infield, with a standing-room-only area in the new Paddock building. ission starts at around $700, but does not include food or drink.
Last Resort
Infield
There are betting windows and food and drink outlets in the infield, but ticket-holders cannot access the rest of the track facilities. Reserved seats with food and drink are available in temporary structures, though these sell out fast. There is also an elevated “final turn” general ission area. The standing-only general ission section of the infield has a spring break atmosphere, and frankly it’s one to avoid. It offers the least expensive of all Derby options, starting at around $100. Infield visitors get one privilege that is available nowhere else at Churchhill Downs, as they can bring collapsible chairs, lunches and sealed water bottles, but you can do better.
