Churchill Downs, located on Central Avenue in Louisville, Kentucky, is world famous for thoroughbred racing. Named for John and Henry Churchill, the racetrack is known for hosting the Kentucky Derby and the Breeder's Cup. The Churchills leased the land to their nephew, Colonel Meriwether Clark Jr., who opened the track in 1875. The first Kentucky Derby was held that same year.
In 1893, Churchill Downs was sold to William Applegate. The new owner shortened the length of the races and then had the famous twin-spire grandstand built. Designed by Joseph Dominic in 1895, the grandstand is one of the most recognizable structures. The structures at Churchill Downs were renovated in 2001, at which time the club house was replaced and 79 luxury suites were added. The historic grandstand also was refurbished and restored to its original design.
The renovation made it possible for guests to enjoy the landmark in a new, more personal way. Churchill Downs now is the site of wedding receptions, anniversary dinners, private parties, banquets and other celebrations, with seating for up to 800 people. With nine banquet rooms available for renting, and a Millionaire's Row experience, the location and its views lend an air of elegance and sophistication to any event.
Racing at Churchill Downs is broken into two meets: The first begins in the spring and continues until early July, while the second starts in late October and ends Thanksgiving weekend. The Kentucky Derby is held the first Sunday in May and the Kentucky Oaks is run the Friday before the derby.
Open year round, the Kentucky Derby Museum is on the site and features a rich collection of historical archives, as well as exhibits dedicated to educating visitors about the training and racing of thoroughbred horses. A 360-degree movie theater gives guests a chance to see the film "The Greatest Race;'' a documentary of the history and traditions surround the Kentucky Derby. Interactive exhibits throughout the museum keep visitors entertained, while they learn the history of Churchill Downs.
The Guest Service Center, situated on the ground floor of the clubhouse, offers visitors access to a trained team of helpful and informative professionals who can answer questions, provide directions and lead them to resources. Churchill Downs has many tour packages available. One of the most popular is the Southern Breakfast Tour, during which guests are treated to a buffet-style breakfast in the trackside kitchen. Visitors then take a walking tour of the barn area, where the race horses are kept and other behind-the-scenes areas.
Churchill Downs is a National Historic Landmark and is the crown jewel of race tracks in the United States. Guests can enjoy the excitement of race days, visit the Kentucky Derby Museum or tour the premises. The track has become one of the top tourist destinations when visiting Louisville, Kentucky.
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