Kentucky Derby
Hotels for Derby Weekend in Louisville

The Kentucky Derby is more than a two-minute race. It’s a full weekend of tradition, parties, hats, mint juleps and racing at Churchill Downs. The Stadium Hotels helps you find hotel rooms in the right Louisville neighborhoods so you can enjoy the Derby on and off the track.

Churchill Downs Downtown Louisville Airport & easy access
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Churchill Downs grandstand during a Kentucky Derby style horse race

USA · Horse Racing

About the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

The Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Derby weekend includes the Kentucky Oaks, undercard races, trackside hospitality and events all over the city.

  • Raced at Churchill Downs, a historic track located a short drive from downtown Louisville.
  • Two main race days: Kentucky Oaks (Friday) and Kentucky Derby (Saturday), plus supporting events.
  • High demand for hotels across the city, especially within easy reach of the track and nightlife areas.

Fan Tips · Transport

What to do & how to move around Louisville

Derby visitors split their time between the track, hotel events and Louisville’s restaurants and bars. Picking the right hotel location can make transfers to Churchill Downs much easier.

  • Track access: Many guests use pre-arranged shuttles, private transfers or rideshare to Churchill Downs.
  • Downtown & Whiskey Row: Ideal for evening plans, dining and post-race celebrations.
  • Airport corridor: Practical choice with short rides to both the track and the terminal.
  • Arrive early, leave late: Adding an extra night before or after race day reduces travel stress and spreads out your trip.

Hotel List

Kentucky Derby hotel spreadsheet

This Kentucky Derby spreadsheet highlights sample hotel areas and properties often used during Derby weekend. Use it to get a feel for the main zones before contacting our team for exact availability and current packages.

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Typical hotel areas for Kentucky Derby stays

Exact hotel names change from year to year, but most Derby visitors choose between downtown, airport corridor and track-adjacent areas depending on how they want to balance racing and nightlife.

Downtown Louisville & Whiskey Row

Central hotels with access to bars, restaurants, the riverfront and Derby-week events in the city.

  • Best for guests who want nightlife and dining after the races.
  • Easy to coordinate transfers to Churchill Downs by shuttle or rideshare.
  • Wide range of mid-scale to upscale properties.

Churchill Downs & surrounding areas

Limited lodging directly near the track, but nearby neighborhoods and main roads host practical options.

  • Shorter travel time to early post times and busy race days.
  • Good for guests prioritizing convenience over nightlife.
  • Demand is high — early reservations are essential.

Airport corridor hotels

Hotels near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, positioned between the terminal and Churchill Downs.

  • Useful for short trips and early/late flights.
  • Often easier for group transportation logistics.
  • Mix of chain and business hotels with reliable services.

Neighborhood & extended-stay options

For guests staying multiple nights or traveling with larger groups who want more space.

  • Suites and apartment-style layouts for groups and families.
  • Comfortable base for longer Derby-week stays.
  • Available in various parts of the city depending on your plans.
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