The whole weekend, not just the Saturday
The Kentucky Derby is two minutes long. The weekend around it is four days, and if you are going all that way, the extra day is the one worth having. Arriving Wednesday means you are settled before the city fills up — time for bourbon country, the horse farms with the white fences, and Churchill Downs itself when it is quiet enough to actually look at it. Then Oaks Day Friday, which locals will tell you is the better day of the two. Then Saturday, and everything that comes with it.
Make your way to the Marriott Griffin Gate Golf Resort and Spa — a four-star property in the heart of Lexington's Bluegrass country, about 75 minutes from Churchill Downs. Championship golf course, full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and walking trails. This evening: a Kentucky-inspired welcome reception with local flavors and a chance to meet your fellow travelers.
Into the heart of Kentucky's horse racing industry. First to Keeneland Race Course — founded in 1936 and one of the most respected tracks in the country — for morning workouts, where future champions are being put through their paces. Then out through the Bluegrass countryside to visit two premier stud farms, meeting the people who run them and getting close to celebrated stallions. The evening is yours at the resort.
To Louisville for Oaks Day — dress to impress, because this is one of the most fashionable days of the racing year. On the way, a stop at the Woodford Reserve Distillery for a guided tour and tasting. Then Churchill Downs, where your premium hospitality package includes all-inclusive food and beverages through the day. A full program of racing builds to the Kentucky Oaks — the Lilies for the Fillies. The day the locals prefer.
The moment. Transfer to Churchill Downs early to take in the atmosphere, the traditions, and the pageantry — the twin spires, the hats, My Old Kentucky Home played by the University of Louisville band as the horses enter the track, and then the most exciting two minutes in sports. Premium hospitality all day.
Breakfast at the resort and a final morning in the Bluegrass before heading home, carrying the hats and the memories.
The Ultimate Derby Package adds Wednesday arrival and Thursday's thoroughbred country day — Keeneland, the stud farms, and an extra night at the resort. If you want the full experience of what makes Kentucky racing special, this is the one. The shorter Derby Weekend package starts Thursday and is also on the calendar.
It is strongly encouraged and genuinely part of the fun. Oaks Day and Derby Day are among the most fashionable days in American sports. Hats are a tradition — we'll share dress code guidance when you book.
Your tickets include all-inclusive food and beverages throughout both race days — no standing in lines, no paying separately for drinks. Details of the specific hospitality area will be confirmed upon booking.
Fly into Lexington (LEX) or Louisville (SDF). Both have good connections from New Orleans. We'll share transportation details when you book.