Enjoy the Kentucky Derby in Lexington!

The Kentucky Derby is happening this Saturday in Louisville, over an hour away. But with an expected crowd of nearly 150,000 people, tickets to Churchill Downs are just about impossible to find - unless you want to brave the mobs at the Infield. Attendees all over the Downs face a chaotic day of long walks and long lines. For many, a shortage of seating will make for an exhausting and uncomfortable experience.

Since Churchill Downs is surrounded by working class neighborhoods, out of town visitors to the track won’t get to see the beautiful rolling hills that make Kentucky famous. And with the track so packed with people, many never even see a horse all day!

A better choice is to stay right here in Lexington and watch the races in style. Every year Keeneland hosts a Derby Celebration in its famously beautiful pastoral location. On the way to the track, drive your guests past Calumet and Manchester Farms, both adjacent to Keeneland. Once you’ve arrived you can choose to tailgate, picnic in the paddock, or enjoy your reserved table in the dining room. Place your bets on the Run for the Roses, and watch all the day’s races from the many TV screens around the track.

Although post time for the first race is 10:30 am, the big event is not until after 6pm. Therefore you have time to begin your Derby Day with a Bleu Plate Walking Tour. From 10-1:30 you’ll enjoy a guided walk around downtown Lexington with stops at various restaurants along the way.

Or you could start your festivities Friday night with a Derby Eve Celebration at a free concert at Wildside Winery, just up the road in Versailles. This 30-acre farm with vineyards and fruit trees is just 15 minutes from Lexington. You may like it so much that you return for their Derby Day Celebration which will showcase their special mint juleps!

Lexington KY is always #1 in my book! Whether you want to buy a downtown condo, a custom walkout ranch on a golf course, or a horse farm in the country, I can help find the perfect home for you – as well as help you sell your home. In addition to Lexington Real Estate, I specialize in the nearby towns of Paris, Midway, Georgetown, and Versailles.