There are few bigger sporting events on the planet than the Kentucky Derby, with over 150,000 fans packing into Churchill Downs every year to watch the opening leg of the Triple Crown. It is regarded as a bucket-list event for many sporting fans in North America, with the day itself being a perfect celebration of high-quality sporting action and fashion.
As one of the biggest social days on the calendar, it is also well attended by fans of all ages from the local area, meaning that it can often get very busy in and around Churchill Downs. Therefore, one of the biggest issues that many visitors have when attending the racing on the first Saturday in May is the traffic around Kentucky and the Churchill Downs track.
Getting To And From The Track By Car
Given that the majority of visitors that will be attending the Kentucky Derby will be from out of town, driving is often the preferred option when it comes to getting to and from the course. Many regular visitors suggest that it is easiest to take Gene Synder (265) north off 65 to 71 to cut off traffic on the way to the course, with exit 271 being the best option in the morning of Derby day.
Getting away from the track could be slightly more tedious, especially if you have paid to park outside the gates at Churchill Downs. There will be no way of avoiding traffic if leaving immediately after the final race, meaning that a preferred option among many experienced visitors it to either leave earlier, normally after the Derby, or leave an hour after the final race when the queues have died down.
However, once you’re away from the track, it is typically easier to get back onto the highway than it is in the morning before the racing. As the Kentucky Derby prep race schedule comes to an end it’s time to look at how to get to the main event.
Where To Park
The majority of visitors will be looking to park as close to Churchill Downs as possible for a straightforward getaway after the Derby. However, parking passes on the racecourse car park can be considerably priced for the average fan, with cars costing $40, and RVs or trucks seeing visitors pay $150. All tickets for parking will need to be brought in advance from the Churchill Downs Ticketmaster site.
Alternatively, a popular option among visitors is to park at Kentucky Exposition Center or L&N Stadium, with visitors able to take the free shuttle bus from here to the racecourse. Another option for visitors at the track is to purchase a day parking space from one of the many Louisville locals that will be looking to make a quick buck on Derby day. However, the big concern with this option is the fact that police will close roads between Wednesday and Sunday, meaning that you won’t be able to move your car between those periods if in the designated areas.
Free Shuttle Bus
The most popular method to get to the track for Derby day if you’re driving is by taking advantage of the free shuttle bus from the Exposition Center. Visitors are able to park their cars at this location free of charge, but a priority spot can be reserved in advance on their official website.
Visitors will also be able to take advantage of the free shuttle bus to get back to their car. If you’re stopping in the local area, there are also a number of other free busses that visitors can take advantage of. However, overnight accommodation should be booked well in advance to avoid paying a huge price for their Derby weekend.
Alternative Modes Of Transport
One of the best ways to raise the anticipation for the racing at Churchill Downs is by walking to the track if you’re staying in the local area. This is a preferred option among many visitors, as they can explore the local region before taking in a day at the track. However, female visitors should ensure that they bring an alternative pair of footwear, as walking in high heels around Louisville isn’t typically the best start to a day where you will be standing up for long periods.
A new popular option among visitors is cycling to Churchill Downs. This is an excellent way to avoid paying parking fees, and will also cut out the traffic. Bike parking is available at the track throughout Derby week, but you will likely need to get there quickly with just 100 spaces available.
But, this could create its own issue for visitors, as cycling in their best clothes and footwear could be more challenging than walking. It should also be warned that visitors will need to avoid drinking alcohol throughout the day to avoid picking up a fine when cycling.
