Off to the races: The Kentucky Derby

April 9, 2:47 PMSF Budget Travel ExaminerErin Schneider

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The famous spires of Churchill Downs. Photo by Sarah Piazza.

Mint juleps and fancy hats, burgoo stew and roses all accessorize this grand event, making The Kentucky Derby a unique, must-do American experience. Because horses thunder around Churchill Downs’ one and a quarter mile track in just two minutes, the race is known as “the fastest two minutes in sports.”  And with such a swift event, it’s obvious that spectators have been coming to this competition since 1875 for more than just the race; the details are what contribute to the attraction.

Here is the “Run for the Roses” must-do list:

• Taste burgoo stew, a Kentucky favorite since the time of Daniel Boone.
• Sip a mint julep, made with mint, bourbon, sugar and water.
• Place a bet, or two
• Venture into the infield; it is an experience in itself!
• Scout out the horses and jockeys in the paddocks.
• Buy a souvenir glass.
• Tailgate before the gates open.
• Wear a big hat.
• Scope out celebrities.

"The Kentucky Derby is an icon of American culture

and is by far one of the most fun events of the year!"

-Sarah Piazza, dedicated Kentucky Derby fan.

 

Affluent crowds, budget vacation types, and everyone in between are welcome at the Kentucky Derby. To decide on a ticket type, see the following explanations:

Here for the Party: The cheapest entrance will be $40 for a place in the infield -- an area that becomes a mud bath after being trampled by excited (and maybe a bit intoxicated) fans. This area by the third turn is the perfect spectator area if you plan on getting rowdy.

Wanna Be: If you’re more of the business casual type, but can not afford the Millionaire’s Row, the bleachers of the grand stands or a clubhouse may be the best fit. Tickets run from $135- $3,000 and are available for sale here.

High Roller: If hob nobbing with rich and famous is your idea of the Kentucky Derby, be prepared to fork over $4,500 or more and dress with class. The box seats known as Millionaire’s Row are filled by the elite, from royalty to rock stars.

No matter what type of budget you have, start the day out early, since gates to the acclaimed Churchill Downs open at 8 am and have plenty of time to fill up on the details of the derby before the “Run for the Roses” begins.

Millionaire's Row photo by Sarah Piazza.