A must visit in Louisville KY!! The tour comes with general admission. Steve our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. I learned a lot from him. The tracks, the history, the building itself and the stories about jockeys and horses are all fascinating. The day we went unfortunately the weather was not good. Couldn't get a clear view of the track and landmarks. But it was very exciting to see the actual track. Parking is free. The gift shop is good. Lots merchandise for visitors to browse through. 2 horses in the barn when we visited. The museum itself is wonderful. Many historical information and artifacts. The Secretariat section is on the second floor. The fastest horse. And I learned that he had a bigger heart than any other horses. Might be a factor that he was fast! Absolutely a highlight of our trip in KY. It makes me actually want to come for the Kentucky Derby in May. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Came here the day after Derby Day, so it was free (and track tour during this time). I waited about half hour in line to get in (since this year's Derby merch was also half off). I liked the 360 degree movie and spent about an hour and a half checking out the other exhibits. 2026 #42 read more

See all

We couldn't make it to Kentucky Derby, but the museum visit was as close we could get to this historical event. The museum has such amazing collection of the history of the event, the trophies, the horses, the jockeys, there was so much to see. There was a magnificent theater that gives the visitor a glimpse of the derby day activities. There a horse riding arcade for kids. A section is dedicated to legendary horse, the Secretary. The general admission comes with a free tour of the Churchill Downs and the race track. We got to be in the grand stand and learn much incredible facts about derby from our tour guide. One of the coolest things to learn was from what position horses won the races the most to least. The gift shop a lot of amazing merchandises, apparels, souvenirs and gift items. The parking was free. We spent about 2.5 hours at the museum. There was a horse barn as well in the back of the main building. It's the top destination for anyone visiting Louisville. read more

See all

This is a must - even though we would've loved to see live racing - we love the Kentucky derby and everything about it. The museum was so informative and interactive - great finds in the gift shop - and the tour was amazing! read more

The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs is a must visit when you are in Louisville. Come to the museum to learn about what American horse racing is all about and walk the grounds on a guided tour. Admission to the museum includes the tour, which is timed and the person helping you will assign you the time when you come (the tours are very frequent so your wait time shouldn't be terribly long). The tour starts off with an 18 minute video called "The Greatest Race" (inside the museum, at The Great Hall). This video is really cool because of the 360 view. So honestly any seat is going to be good. Watching the video not only helped me to learn about some of the history of the legendary Kentucky Derby, but also made me feel like I was right there in all of the excitement that the Kentucky Derby has to offer (seriously wow). Then after the video, our tour guide greets us and we follow her outside to the rack. The tour guide we had was very informative and she was very friendly. She was excellent at answering questions and also sharing things that she thought visitors would like to know. On this tour, our guide did talk about Secretariat, the horse (who was 3 years old at the time) who set the fastest Derby time ever (in 1973, he finished the track in 1 minute, 59 2/5 seconds!) and was the Triple Crown Winner in 1973. The jockey that rode Secretariat was Ron Turcotte. Now back to the museum. The museum is 2 stories and is filled with so much information about racing, the clothing (one of my favorite exhibits), the food, the history, etc. One exhibit that you may see right away is a jockey on a horse wearing a crown of roses. That horse is Mystik Dan and the jockey is Brian Hernandez Jr. In 2024, Mystik Dan won just barely by a nose of the 150th race of the Kentucky Debry. There is a video that plays the actual race, which was very exciting to see. Mystik Dan was racing between Sierra Leone and Forever Young (don't you just love the names of these horses?). As the jockey was trying to pass another horse, his boot ended up scrapping the rail. And then he eventually sped up and was on a clear shot to the finished line. But as that happened, Sierra Leone and Forever Young were also speeding up and nearly neck and neck with Mystik Dan. After the race was over, the judges had to inspect the video, which took a few extra minutes... announcing that Mystik Dan was the winner and that Sierra Leone came in 2nd and Forever Young in 3rd. Consider googling the video because it is one heck of a race to watch. In total, my visit was over 2 hours. There is definitely plenty to see. Lots to read and learn. You can also dine at the Derby Cafe and order a mint julep or have a Kentucky hot brown. Well worth a visit if you were ever curious about The Kentucky Derby. read more

Very nice. Museum track tour and 18 min 360 film .. the derby experience for the 364 other days of a year. Parking close by too.. wish I had allowed more time to explore museum .. great value @ $24.. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Secretariat exhibits - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

The Kentucky Derby museum was awesome they have the history of the Kentucky derby from start to now every race they ever had jockeys and more if you don't know about horse racing this is the place to visit they have a movie on the Kentucky derby they have secretariat who was the greatest horse ever they have a special story of the greatest jockey as well Bill Shoemaker this place is worth the visit read more

See all

American Thoroughbred horse racing museum [Louisville KY] The Kentucky Derby Museum was something I did not want to miss while in Louisville. We almost did not make it but we were able to experience the last hour which also got us in the last tour at Churchill Downs. The museum is two floors of interactive exhibits celebrating the history and excitement of the Kentucky Derby. We watched "The Greatest Race," at The Great Hall... this was an immersive film that surrounded the viewers with this very cool 360° 18-minute media experience that featured a heart-pounding thrill of Derby Day. Made my heart race and emotions soar watching this film. The chairs swivel so you are able to turn and watch from every direction. It was exciting seeing the different fashion they wore and watch the sights, sounds, and spirit of the Kentucky Derby like never before. The first floor also had some fashion exhibits and hats, wow, the display of hats were fun to see. This was a powerful tribute to the speed, pageantry, and magic of the most legendary two minutes in sports. I have mad respect for these horses. The Great Hall is the meeting place for the Guided Track Visit of Churchill Downs as well. The Guided Track Visit of Churchill Downs Racetrack is approximately 25 minutes. Our tour guide took us railside at America's most famous Thoroughbred track. We learned interesting information about Churchill Downs along the way. The Winner's Circle on the first floor as you enter the museum featured "Sovereignty" winner of the 2025 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Second floor highlighted "Secretariat" (aka Big Red) a Thoroughbred racehorse and winner of U.S. Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in 1973. I became such a fan... I told my hubby I wanted to attend a Kentucky Derby one day and wear a fancy hat ツ Review #3908 read more

See all

We stopped in here after our tour of Churchill Downs. The museum contained a lot of artifacts and knowledge. There was even a role playing track betting area! I know I wanted to get something for my mom that was Secretariat related and something for myself that was Churchill Downs related. As we browsed the store, an associate was very friendly and offering to assist, which we did not need assistance. There is everything in this store, even bourbons! The bourbons seemed overpriced so we did not indulge. I found a shot glass I liked for my collection and found a couple of Secretariat items for my mom. Finally, I viewed the Derby hats and found perfect green hat that was not flashy or Gordy for my taste. Even better, it was on sale! I plan to wear it very year on Derby day, no matter where I am! read more

See all

We had an amazing day at the museum. We took inside track tour with Alex who is super knowledgeable. We splurged on the Backside and Barns tour was super worth it. Our B n B tour guide was Barry, if you get the opportunity ask for Barry, he didn't just show you the stables he provided anecdotes from his life spent at Churchill Downs. Well worth the time we spent here. read more

Great experience! I sampled a flight of 3 bourbons at the dining area and had a hot brown sandwich. Because when you are in Louisville that's what you do. read more

What a beautiful venue! I hadn't been to the Kentucky Derby Museum in years, and wow, has it been upgraded! There are bright open spaces, several good exhibits, a 360 degree movie and a well-informed, well-presented tour. My companion was my significant other, a former jockey. He said it brought back lots of memories for him to see the starting gates, jockey silks, horse 'accessories', etc. There are fun fashion exhibits too, all tastefully presented, My two favorite exhibits were the D.Wayne Lukas rooms and the stories and photos about famed jockey Willie Shoemaker. I had never known his real name was Billie Lee. Fun bits of Louisville and horse racing history - I highly recommend! read more

See all

We had the chance to visit the Churchill Downs Kentucky Derby Museum last night with Industrial Kiln and Dryer group, and it was an incredible experience. Having the entire facility to ourselves made it feel exclusive, and there was so much to take in, tons of memorabilia that really brought the history of the Derby to life. The evening included a video presentation that wrapped around the ceiling, which was impressive and gave you the feeling of being right in the middle of the action. Dinner was excellent, fresh salad, perfectly cooked salmon, and tender braised short ribs. Everything was well-prepared and flavorful. The staff went above and beyond to make the night interactive and fun. They gave us fake money and a horse race schedule, then let us place "bets" on races while watching them on TV. It was a great way to add some excitement and friendly competition to the evening. Overall, it was a very fun and memorable experience. Between the rich history, great food, and engaging staff, I'd recommend the Kentucky Derby Museum to anyone visiting Louisville. read more

See all

Stopped in to pick up the KDF training packet for the mini marathon and it's been a year since our last visit. Appears to be a bit of construction happening in the entryway since plastic barriers were hung and foot traffic was directed around the area. This is a terrific venue and always something new to see when visiting. The updates so far have been fabulous since they're informative and entertaining. Looking forward to return visits and also appreciate the venue hosting this event. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Entrance line into the Museum for KDF marathon training packet pickup. - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Super cool place to meet up for the new running schedule. WHAS was covering tonight. It was exhilarating to see everyone be passionate towards the same goals! read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Lovely museum that I forget about as a local. Visited here for the Mini Marathon kickoff and was WOW'd by the building inside and out! It's modern, spacious & well designed. Surrounded by lots of history and great race memories, I'll be sure to return for a full museum visit soon. Churchill stepped up their game read more

See all

Attended the Derby in December celebration which included a lifetime achievement award presentation to award winning jockey Pat Day. It was a fantastic event. Museum was open to the public with free admission. Ample free parking. Great exhibits and coffee and donuts were provided. The launch of the 2026 derby pin and poster were also celebrated. It is always fun and informative at the museum and yesterday was just such a great celebration of a wonderful man, Pat Day who has graced the racing workd with his presence. A true Louisville gem. Thanks for a great community event Churchill Downs Derby Museum read more

See all

We did a tour of the grounds and everything in between and was very impressed. Our tour guide (Shawn I think? He has long hair!) was very nice, funny and informative with everything. I would recommend the tour for sure! Parking: On site Restrooms: Located in the museum area, but not available once you go on the tour, they have to come back to the building as the regular restrooms are locked. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Super neat place to check out the history of horse racing and why it's so popular. They have a lot of history about all the horses you know and some you might not and they have an amazing cafeteria with reasonably priced good hot foods. Free parking and if you don't want to pay you can still walk around the gift shop and all around the ground. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

A very nice tour of an iconic venue. The museum itself is great a lot of stuff you thought you knew but didn't. Secretariat exhibit was wonderful. The tour was nice too we went on the track and in the owners section right by the track. They are already preparing for the Derby in about a month. Mark & Nancy. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Our guide. - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

This was the perfect place to spend a few hours of my afternoon outside of the races at Churchill Downs. It was so interesting to learn more of the history of the races and even try out some interactive exhibits like the horse racing simulator! At this museum you can do self guided or guided tours, but because we were pressed for time we opted for self guided. At the end of your walkthrough you're dropped off in the gift shop where you can buy fascinators and other Kentucky Derby merch! If you're someone who likes to learn more about where you're visiting, I'd recommend checking this out! read more

See all

Very well put together with more information than you even considered about the history of the derby to include jockeys and horses and weather. We spent quite a bit of time here just taking it all in and we all found it super duper interesting. The staff were all helpful and kind. The restrooms were clean. Currently there was no place to eat and drink and that would be fun if there were a little bar deli inside! read more

See all

Wowza!! I never wrote a review for our visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum from a few years ago. I posted the photos a couple of years ago, but never posted a review. Based on my limited memory, here are some notes of what I remember. It was Time well spent! We got to the museum early, and we enjoyed every minute there. We purchased a tour of Churchill Downs. It was worth every penny!! Highly recommend doing the guided tour!! Make sure to check out the many informative and educational exhibits at the museum. So much to learn and appreciate! I remember that there was an interactive racing game which Wifey and I played. She beat me twice in that horse race!! We also enjoyed a really good lunch meal at the cafe which I will share more about on their Yelp page. All in all, we had an AMAZING time at the Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs!! It was so great to see the track where the magic of the Kentucky Derby takes place! I'd be more than happy to return here in the future!! read more

What an amazing place! Whether you like horse racing or nice. Loved the museum and tour. Totally worth it to come here. Enjoyed the exhibits on jockeys too. read more

See all

This is almost a must do if you are in the Louisville area. It is one of the things that Louisville is notable for. If you don't know, it's one, if not the most important, horse races in the country. If that's your thing, this is a stop you have to make when you are here. I honestly came here on whim the day I visited and ended up being in the last group of the day. I don't know how I managed that, but I was fortunate enough to make my way here. When I entered I was informed at the tight timetable I would be sticking to and the highlights I should try to squeeze in before the actual tour started for the racetrack. I made my inside and zoomed through the exhibit areas and hit the highlights. There is a lot to see here, so I would suggest not putzing around like I did for the day and make the time to see as much as you can and take it all in. I started by entering the museum through the gates. This museum takes you through the history of the derby as a whole. There are exhibits dedicated to the horse, jockey's, track, and overall horseracing. Make sure to look everyway that you can, use the map to get yourself to an exhibit area. There are many areas in here where you can have a photo op and capture a moment for yourself. I actually had the opportunity here to speak with a fellow visitor. I came to one of the areas where you can take a photo and asked if she wanted me to take a photo for her. She was so pleased by this and we got to chatting and exchanged stories about our travel. She was so nice and gave me tips on what and how to see places. I am so glad I passed paths with her. Once we say the lights dim like an intermission, that meant to go to the area where everyone meets before the outside tour starts. Here you are treated to a video presentation that is a 360 viewing experience. It makes you feel like you are in the middle of the racetrack and if you are lucky enough to have a seat, use your seat to rotate with the show. Once the show ends, you will be directed to follow a tour guide and be taken outside to tour the grounds. I'll explain more of that in my next review. Outside the building you get a better view of the building that holds the museum before going further. read more

See all

I totally recommend visiting this museum when visiting Louisville, KY. It's a grand place and there's so much to do. Our general admission came with a video and tour of the tracks. This was an amazing place and our tour guide Douglas was fantastic and gave us a wonderful history of the Downs. Great prices only $20 per adult. And you must get a mint julep in the cafeteria that comes with a free souvenir glass. Great place. read more

See all

Really nice museum the history of the derby and the winners jockeys and trainers are educating and informative.

While I have no interest in sports or horse racing, a visit to Louisville is not complete without a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. I had very basic knowledge (ie. nearly none) of the Kentucky Derby and there is so much I learned during my visit, which included a 15 minute movie and a 25 minute tour of the Churchill Downs track (we were lucky enough to see a few horses being exercised, as well as a retired horse at the stable). Inside there were various exhibits about all aspects of horse racing and the Kentucky Derby -- exhibits about jockeys, horseshoes, the winners over the years, and so much more. And of course there was an exhibit about Secretariat, the greatest racehorse in history. (Fun fact: a racehorse's heart weighs about 10 pounds; Secretariat's weighed a whopping 22 pounds, which is what gave him such an advantage over other horses.) A fascinating museum, even if you're not interested in horse racing. Tip: if you're going to buy something from the gift shop, check in on Yelp for 10% off your purchase. I splurged and bought a fascinator (which was not cheap!) so the discount was much appreciated. [Yelp collections: Louisville/Indianapolis 2023; Louisville, KY 2023; Museums and Art Galleries] read more

We had a fantastic time at the museum! We did the guided walking tour (included with admission) and our guide, Keyana, was AMAZING! They were incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole trip enjoyable. The film (also included with admission) was so well done - we felt like we were on the track! And of course, no visit would be complete without a mint julep (and you even get to keep the collectible cup!). Highly recommend. We spent hours here without even realizing it! read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky Derby Museum was absolutely adorable, and to see the tour of the Horse Track in person was pretty awesome. The Tour Guide did an excellent job. This museum gives you all the historical facts that gives you a deeper understanding of the Derby all around. The only disappointment I experienced was the famous Bourbon Bar was not open during my visit. read more

See all

We bought our Kentucky Derby Museum tickets online which was easy and only $20 per person. Doing this beforehand made our arrival and check in process super smooth and quick. The Kentucky Derby film shown in the Great Hall really set the tone for our visit. The film is nicely done and presented on a track shaped screen. Please note there is an ideal side of the theatre to sit on to enjoy the film!! The side that is furthest from the lobby/ front desk is the side to be on! Next, our guided tour was led by Douglas, an informative individual. Douglas knew a plethora of information and performed an impressive imitation of the bugle call! The museum has plenty of interactive and educational components. Two of our favorite interactive activities were the horse racing simulator and mock betting station. There were sections on history, fashion, and prominent figures to read up on. We spent about an hour and a half taking it all in. Such a cool museum, I can't wait to return to attend the derby!!! read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Great place for any horse lover! Two parts to see here, 1. the museum, 2. The track and tour. Various artifacts and historical pieces to see in the museum. Well laid out and well organized! Free track tours are available throughout the day. Starting point is the theater room where an awesome movie is played. A must stop spot! read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

See all

Tour guide absolutely knew ball. Worth the price tbh, was very eye opening for a horse racing casual. Unfortunately the place was all snowy so we couldn't see the track as well but still super super cool read more

See all

When in KY, you go learn a bit about the Derby lol! Seriously, my friend knew a bit about the derby and recommended coming here while we were in town. I know nothing about the derby or horse racing but am up for an adventure so we went. By the time we left I felt educated and fulfilled in a good way. It was a Saturday but very low key. No big crowds while we were there. There are a few options - we chose the $20 museum and general tour. It was worth the $$$! You start by watching and 18 min video on the Derby and what a day at the derby looks like. The video is shown on a 360 degree screen that is very cool. I really enjoyed the movie! Then you go on the general tour with your guide who narrates. You get to do down to the track, walk through the inner race area and learn a lot about the racing and the derby. Our guide was EXCELLENT! He encouraged a lot of questions, shared facts and a few stories and got us down to the track area in time to see a race go by! I loved that! Also, that is not a "given" like you may think... races only happen every 28 minutes, the tour was about 20 minutes so he did some planning on that. Following the tour we toured the museum on our own. There is A LOT to see and learn in the museum. There are 2 levels and areas covering everything from horses, jockeys, history, clothing, betting, caretakers, etc. If it has ANYTHING to do with horse racing, they have a section on it lol. They also included a section on the building as well. I really liked that they had interactive stations, reading stations, video stations, etc. So no matter how you like to engage there is something for everyone. If you are in Louisville, you must stop here and take the quick tour! It's worth the money (and if you follow my reviews, you know I'm frugal lol). read more

See all

Visiting a friend that has lived in Kentucky all her life and she has never visited the Museum. Coming from California I was excited to actually visit the place where Secretariat won. We love the movie and the inspiring story. Reservations made and paid for online a week prior to our visit. Parking is free in the lot right next to Churchill Downs and there's a 2 minute walk to the Museum entrance. We were nicely welcomed and given a map then pointed in the direction of the theater. The tour begins with a 20 minute amazing video. Our docent then gathered us up and led us out to the area where she began with the history of the derby which was very interesting and entertaining. She answered the couple of questions from guests and then led us to the track for more information. Wow! We were right on the track where the derby is run. So cool. After this talk we were invited to visit the two horses in the barn, the gift shop, the cafe, and then of course the museum. read more

See all

NONE of the digital elements work! The horse riding game didn't work and there was no sign posted. Just groups of people one after another trying it for a few minutes until they left. Make sure your experiences work. read more

We did the general admission ticket so we could see the Churchill Downs track. They show you a very impressive movie in the hall before you go see the track. The movie is 20 minutes long. Great experience overall! The track is huge and must see. It's currently as I write this under construction outside in the front. They are redoing the Paddock area. It will be done next year for the Kentucky Derby and from the photo they have out it's going to be beautiful. The staff is awesome and very intelligent on the history of the grounds. Quite the learning experience. read more

See all

Great place to shop for derby souvenirs, cool clothing, bourbon, glasses. It is the biggest museum store I've ever seen. Worth the visit. A bit too pricy for my personal budget, but I bought a beautiful Derby shirt. read more

See all

This museum is totally worth going to visit with all the history at the longest running sport in our nation since 1875, the first Kentucky Derby was done here at Churchill Downs. The tour guide gave an excellent oration of so much history of thoroughbreds, Churchill Downs, and even some of Louisville. Highly recommend this tour if you get the chance when in Louisville. read more

Kentucky Derby Museum - Museums Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

A must see for horse racing fans when in Louisville. You can book your tickets online or in person with free parking around Churchill Downs. Upon entering, check in was a breeze and was griven an itinerary with a map upon arrival. Got to see a short film as well as a complimentary tour to the tracks of the race course. There was so many historic trophies and memorabilia. It has something for all ages and interests with an interactive video game for the children and fashion exhibits for the casual fans..the Kentucky Derby Museum is a great experience overall and worth the price of admission, which is a fair price. Probably takes 2-3 hours to explore the entire museum. Check it out! read more

See all