Derby Week is the most exciting time of the year in Kentucky, but it’s more than just a single race. It’s a week-long festival filled with world-class events, parties, and, of course, a celebration of our world-famous bourbon. With over 150,000 visitors flocking to Louisville each year, planning ahead is essential. This guide is designed to help you navigate the festivities and make the most of your trip. From the races to the best local spots and insider tips, here is your essential Kentucky Derby week guide for 2026.
A Day-by-Day Look at Derby Week
The week leading up to the main event is packed with activities at Churchill Downs. Understanding the schedule will help you choose your perfect day at the track, whether you want the full-throttle energy of Derby Day or a more relaxed, behind-the-scenes experience.
- Opening Night: The official kickoff to Derby Week, featuring a night of racing under the lights.
- Champions Day: This day celebrates the world-class thoroughbred racing that leads up to the main event. It’s an ideal day for serious racing fans who want to focus on the competition without the massive Derby crowds.
- The Oaks: The Friday before the Derby, this race features the top three-year-old fillies. It’s a popular event in its own right and a great warm-up for Saturday. Known for its “Pink Out” tradition to support breast cancer awareness, Oaks Day is a beautiful and meaningful day at the track.
- Derby Day: The main event. The atmosphere is electric, from the outlandish fashion to the endless flow of mint juleps. It’s a full day of races culminating in the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
Beyond the Track: The Best of Bourbon Country
A trip to Kentucky isn’t complete without experiencing its bourbon culture. While the races are the main event, a well-planned bourbon tour provides the perfect complement to your Derby Week experience. Given the high demand during this period, booking a private tour in advance is a must. This is where a planned bourbon tour with SIP Kentucky can be a game-changer, especially during a crowded bourbon Derby week.
Why a Bourbon Tour is Essential During Derby Week
- Skip the Traffic & Parking: Navigating Louisville and the surrounding area during Derby Week can be a major challenge. Our luxury transportation handles all of the driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic journey without worrying about navigating traffic or finding parking.
- Guaranteed Reservations: Many distilleries book up months in advance for tours and tastings, especially during the first week of May. We have pre-arranged access and can secure reservations for you at some of the most sought-after locations like Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, and Buffalo Trace.
- Expert Guides: Our guides are local experts with a passion for both horses and bourbon. They’ll share insights that you won’t find in a guidebook, from the history of the distilleries to tips for navigating Derby Day like a local.
What to See and Do in Louisville (Beyond Churchill Downs)
Louisville is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do during your trip. Take a break from the track to explore some of the city’s other renowned attractions:
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: A must-see for any baseball fan. Watch bats being made in the factory and explore the history of the iconic brand.
- Muhammad Ali Center: This cultural and educational hub is dedicated to Louisville’s most famous son, Muhammad Ali. The center’s exhibits chronicle Ali’s life and legacy, both as an athlete and a humanitarian.
- The Frazier History Museum: Located on Louisville’s historic “Whiskey Row,” the Frazier is the starting point for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center. It features exhibits on American history and is a great first stop on your bourbon journey.
- Louisville Mega Cavern: An underground adventure park with ziplines, ropes courses, and tram tours for the whole family.
- Fourth Street Live!: A lively entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and a great atmosphere for a night out on the town.
FAQs: Planning Your Derby Week Trip
Q: When is the best time to visit distilleries during Derby Week? A: We recommend visiting distilleries on the days leading up to the main event. Thursdays and Fridays tend to be popular, but Tuesdays and Wednesdays offer a slightly less crowded experience.
Q: Should I book a hotel in Louisville? A: Hotels in Louisville book up to a year in advance and can be extremely expensive, especially during big events like the Derby. While many visitors choose to stay in nearby cities, it is also a great option to explore local AirBnbs or vacation rentals within Louisville itself. We recommend booking your accommodations and tours as early as possible to secure the best options and prices. Remember, a private tour with SIP Kentucky is a valuable option because we can pick you up from any of these locations.
Q: What is a “Thurby” and is it worth going? A: Thurby is the Thursday of Derby Week and has become a favorite for many locals. It features excellent racing, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the track without the full-throttle chaos of Derby or Oaks Day.
Q: What are some of the other major events during Derby Week? A: The Kentucky Derby Festival includes over 70 events leading up to the race. Some of the most famous are the Thunder Over Louisville, one of the nation’s largest fireworks extravaganzas, and the Pegasus Parade, a massive parade that winds through downtown Louisville.
Q: Where can I get a great meal in Louisville? A: Louisville is a foodie city with a vibrant culinary scene. Our guides can recommend excellent restaurants that range from upscale dining to classic Southern comfort food. Popular choices include the historic Brown Hotel, known for its iconic Hot Brown sandwich, and the NuLu neighborhood, home to many farm-to-table restaurants and trendy bars.
Q: Can I visit the distilleries without a tour reservation? A: During Derby Week 2026, most major distilleries will require a reservation for tastings and tours. We highly recommend booking a planned tour to ensure you get to visit the distilleries on your list.
Beyond the Track: The Ultimate Kentucky Experience
While the “Run for the Roses” is the main event, a trip to Kentucky isn’t complete without experiencing its bourbon culture. Our tours are the perfect way to take a break from the crowds and enjoy a curated, private bourbon experience. We handle the transportation and reservations, allowing you to relax, enjoy the tastings, and make lasting memories.
Don’t Wait! Derby Week is a high-demand period, and our spots fill up quickly. Secure your tour today to guarantee a luxurious, stress-free, and truly unforgettable bourbon experience.
Book a Kentucky Derby Bourbon Tour with SIP Kentucky