Journey Through the Derby Museum in Louisville, Kentucky

After walking through a starting gate, get ready to gallop through horse racing history at the Derby Museumin Louisville, KY. Just steps from gate one on the grounds of Churchill Downs you will find two floors of exhibits. You will learn what it takes for a foal to be in the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs and of course learn the 139-year history of  “the greatest two minutes in sports.”  Here are some highlights and what else you might learn.

1. Hats, Hats, Hats! The tradition of wearing a lavish hat started with the early days of British horseracing in the 1800’s when men and women were required to dress up. Each year, a panel of judges narrow down a selection of thousands of hats sent in to a few dozen that are the most unique. The selection is installed in the Hat Exhibit inside the museum where guests vote on their favorite.

2. Learn about some of the most respected breeders that include Warner L. Jones. At 19-years old, he borrowed $50,000 from his mother to start Hermitage Farm and soon became a leading breeder of Thoroughbreds in Kentucky. One of his career highlights includes selling a champion horse for 13.1 million dollars at a public auction.

3. Fun Facts. You might not look at the track and wonder what it’s composed of but you will learn the breakdown is: 75% sand, 23 % silt and 2% clay.

Derby Museum 

Address: 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

Phone: (502) 637-1111

Admission: Adults: $14.00

Senior Citizens (55+): $13.00

Young Adults (13-18): $11.00

Children (5-12): $6.00

Children (Under 5): FREE