The Kentucky Derby Museum is a cultural and sporting history museum located next to Churchill Downs Racetrack at 704 Central Avenue in Louisville, Kentucky. This guide provides practical planning details including opening hours, ticket prices, transport and parking, accessibility, visit duration, practical tips and frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit effectively.
To skip the detail and buy your Kentucky Derby Museum tickets, head here.
Quick facts
| Opening hours | March 24–November 30: Mon–Sat 8am–5pm, Sun 11am–5pm · Dec 1–March 23: Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 12pm–5pm · Closed on Derby weekend Thu–Sat, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day |
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| Ticket prices | Adults (13–64): $22 · Seniors (65+): $20 · Military: $20 · Children (5–12): $13 · Children under 5: Free |
| Address | 704 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208, United States |
| Transport / Parking | Free on-site parking at the museum/Churchill Downs · Public transit available from downtown Louisville |
| Typical visit time | 2–3 hours for general admission including exhibits and guided track visit |
Kentucky Derby Museum opening hours
The museum’s standard hours vary by season:
- March 24–November 30: Monday–Saturday 8am–5pm · Sunday 11am–5pm
- December 1–March 23: Monday–Saturday 9am–5pm · Sunday 12pm–5pm
The museum is closed to the public Thursday through Saturday of Derby weekend, on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. On rare occasions it may close early for private events; check the calendar before visiting.
Kentucky Derby Museum ticket prices
- Adults (ages 13–64): $22
- Seniors (65+): $20
- Military: $20
- Children (5–12): $13
- Children under 5: Free
General Admission includes access to the museum’s exhibits, the 360° film “The Greatest Race”, and a guided track visit at Churchill Downs. Get tickets online in advance to secure entry.
How to get to the Kentucky Derby Museum
- The museum is adjacent to Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville’s historic neighbourhood.
- From downtown Louisville, local buses and ride services can drop you near Central Avenue and the museum entrance.
- If arriving by road, follow signs to Churchill Downs; the museum entrance is clearly marked on Central Avenue.
Parking at the Kentucky Derby Museum
- Free parking is provided on-site for museum visitors, shared with Churchill Downs parking areas.
- Parking locations differ on race days compared with regular days; check signage and any race day notices before arrival.
- Spaces can fill early on busy museum days, so build extra time into your schedule in peak periods.
How long to spend at the Kentucky Derby Museum
- Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours for general admission, which includes interactive exhibits, the 360° film and a guided track visit.
- If you plan to include add-on tours such as Backstretch or specialty experiences, allocate additional time as required.
- Indoor exhibits and film presentations run on set schedules; check those times when you arrive so you can plan effectively.
Accessibility at the Kentucky Derby Museum
- The museum and exhibit spaces are wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate a range of visitor needs.
- Induction loops and other accessibility supports are available where indicated.
- If you have specific accessibility questions, contact the museum ahead of your visit for details.
Practical visitor tips
- General Admission must be purchased for a specific day and time; book tickets in advance during peak seasons.
- The Guided Track Visit is included with admission and offers a walking tour of Churchill Downs; wear comfortable footwear for walking.
- Food and drink options are available at the Derby Café and Bourbon Bar; check hours as these may differ from museum hours.
- The museum shop offers souvenirs and Derby memorabilia; it is accessible during museum hours.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the Kentucky Derby Museum suitable for children? | Yes. Exhibits and film presentations are family friendly; children under 5 are admitted free. |
| Do you need to book tickets in advance? | Advance booking is recommended, especially in peak visitor seasons, to secure preferred entry times. |
| Is the Kentucky Derby Museum open on Sundays? | Yes, standard Sunday hours apply (11am–5pm in spring/summer, 12pm–5pm in winter). |
| Are bags allowed in the museum? | Personal bags are allowed; follow any museum guidelines for safety and exhibit protection. |
Things to do near the Kentucky Derby Museum
- Churchill Downs Racetrack – Historic horse racing venue beside the museum.
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Sports history museum nearby.
- Frazier History Museum – Exhibits on Kentucky’s past.
- Speed Art Museum – Art collections and exhibitions.
- Old Louisville Historic District – Walking area with Victorian architecture.
