Kentucky Derby Tickets and Seating Options
Ticketing for the Kentucky Derby is complex and you have many options for many different prices. Part of traveling with Bucket List Events means having our experienced travel guides giving you expert advice on how to pick the best tickets for your party’s needs.
An important thing to understand about Churchill Downs is that the higher your seat, the more valuable the ticket because you can see more of the track. From wherever your seat is located, you can always visit everything beneath you, but the reverse is not true. For example, with a 3rd floor Clubhouse seat you are free to roam around the first floor Clubhouse, but not vice versa. You can never visit upwards from where you are ticketed.
Below is our detailed breakdown of the different ticketing options for Kentucky Derby. Keep in mind that the prices listed here are for the tickets only, and do not include lodging, tours, or anything else included in our travel packages.
The Infield
(General admission)
The Infield is a fun, raucous area, with plenty of options for drinking, eating and betting on the races. It’s a lot like Mardi Gras. There are, however, a couple of downsides. For one thing, there are no actual seats. You will stand or sit on the ground the whole day. For another, you don’t have much of a view of the track and will instead watch the race mostly on TV screens.
If you are going with friends looking to roam, the Infield can make for a very fun party. However, if you are bringing a significant other and looking for a more refined experience, then you’ll want to look at upgrade options.
The Grandstand
(Reserved seating)
The Grandstand consists of reserved bleacher seating and are located well before the finish line. They are the least expensive option for a reserved seat.
| Floor | Sections | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Floor | Starting Gate | Newly constructed |
| 2nd Floor | Starting Gate | Newly constructed |
| 3rd Floor | 323 -325 | Best views in the Grandstand |
- We offer Kentucky Derby packages that include 3rd floor grandstand seats. View Packages.
The Clubhouse
(Reserved seating)
The Clubhouse consists of chairback seats. This is where you are most likely to spot women wearing big hats and men in sport coats. Usually sold in groups of 6 or 8. In our humble opinions, the best place to watch the race is from the last tier in the third floor of the Clubhouse.
| Floor | Rows | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Floor | 113 – 114 | Least expensive Clubhouse experience |
| 1st Floor | 115 – 117 | Near the finish line |
| 2nd Floor | 212 | Includes access to 3rd floor Clubhouse |
| 3rd Floor Clubhouse | General Admission | Standing room only |
| 3rd Floor | 312 – 314, 320 – 322 | Best value at Churchill Downs |
| 3rd Floor | 315 – 319 | Best seats in 3rd Floor |
- We offer Kentucky Derby packages that include 1st floor clubhouse and 3rd floor clubhouse seats. View Packages.
Inside Table Seating
(Room and Box access)
Mingle with Louisville’s elite by reserving a table in one of these exclusive rooms and boxes. You’ll have a prime view of the track and be able to watch the race behind glass. In the Turf Club, you’re likely to run into several celebrities. Tables usually accommodate 8 guests.
| Area | Section | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Millionaire’s Row | 4th floor | Reserved table seating with balcony |
| Skye Terrace | Dedicated | Reserved table seating with balcony |
| Turf Club | Dedicated | Standing room only |
| Turf Club Boxes | Dedicated | Reserved booth seating |
| Turf Club Tables | Dedicated | Reserved table seating |
- We offer Kentucky Derby packages that include 3rd floor clubhouse seats. You can upgrade your Derby day experience by adding Turf Club to your package. View Packages.
VIP Lounge Seating
(Exclusive Lounge Seating)
Get access to super secret VIP lounges, the tickets for which are not available to the general public. You’ll get table seating, an outdoor view of the track, catering, and so much more.
These tickets are guaranteed in pairs only and are extremely limited with only six seats available in each category.
| Area | Section | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Turf Terrace Table | Dedicated | Best tables in Churchill Downs! |
| The Mansion | Secret | Private area with secret entry, concierge, and full building access |
- Custom packages including VIP Lounge Seating is possible and based on availability. View Packages.
More Useful Info
Questions?
We may already answered it – check our comprehensive FAQ & Tips section . Our dedicated event experts have been organizing and attending the Kentucky Derby for years, so feel free to reach out.
The terms Churchill Downs ®, Kentucky Derby ® and Run for the Roses ™ are trademarks of Churchill Downs Incorporated. The use of these terms herein is for factual description purposes only. Bucket List Events is in no way associated with or authorized by Churchill Downs Incorporated. Churchill Downs Incorporated has neither licensed nor endorsed Bucket List Events to sell goods and services in conjunction with the Kentucky Derby.
