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Kentucky Derby Museum

The Kentucky Derby Museum captures the pride, tradition, and excitement of the Kentucky Derby through racing-related exhibits and hands-on displays incorporating photography, sculpture, and visual art. Changing exhibits complement the permanent exhibit, African Americans in Thoroughbred Racing. Interactive exhibits include the Warner L. Jones, Jr. Time Machine, which allows viewers to select footage of Derbys as far back as 1918 as well as the opportunity to be a jockey and ride in a race. A 360-degree high-definition video, The Greatest Race, takes students from the birth of a foal to the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle.

The museum offers programs designed for specific age groups, including tours and workshops. Before visiting, teachers may request materials including a sample copy of the exhibit guidebook—either Kids & Colts (grades pre-K-3) or Roses & Riders (grades 4-12)—distributed to students during their visit to the museum. The museum also sponsors the Aristides Art Club for children in grades K-5, in which kids learn about thoroughbreds and the Derby through arts and crafts projects.

Visitors can also meet the museum’s resident thoroughbred and miniature horse in the backyard paddock and arrange guided walking tours of Churchill Downs, the oldest continuously operated racetrack in the United States.

Located on the grounds of Churchill Downs at Gate #1, the Kentucky Derby Museum is open seven days a week. Museum admission is $9 for adults and $3 for students ages 5-12, which includes a walking tour. The museum offers tours of the Churchill Downs backside from March through November for an additional $6. Groups of 15 or more can arrange special rates if the tour is booked in advance. Lunch is available at the Derby Café Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm.

For more information about the museum and Churchill Downs, contact:

Kentucky Derby Museum
704 Central Ave.
Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 637-1111
www.derbymuseum.org

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