Churchill Downs Kentucky Derby Hotel
Located just 3 miles from the Holiday Inn Louisville Southwest Fair & Expo Center hotel is the historic horse race track, Churchill Downs. Before you head out to see the sights at this Louisville landmark, be sure to check up on all the horses using our complimentary high speed Internet access, and be ready to place your bets!
For Google directions to Churchill Downs from the Holiday Inn Louisville Southwest Fair & Expo Center hotel, click here.
Home of the Kentucky Derby since its official opening in 1875, Churchill Downs is a monumental part of Kentucky's rich history in horse racing. Churchill Downs was opened by Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr, who leased 80 acres of land from his two uncles, John and Henry Churchill, for whom the track is named.
When you hear Churchill Downs, you think Kentucky Derby, one of the most noteworthy horse races in the world. The Derby and the Kentucky Oaks (the race held every Friday before the Kentucky Derby) are the oldest continuously competitive sporting events in history. At Churchill Downs, you can look into the track's long history and tradition at the Kentucky Derby Museum, which offers tours of the facility, barns and backside areas. Churchill Downs will also host the 2010 and 2011 Breeders Cup.
Beginning in 2002, Churchill Downs began a $121 million renovation project. Finished in 2005, the historic renovation aimed to make the track Kentucky's most significant and luxurious landmark by making the following improvements:
- New Clubhouse
- Almost 80 New Luxury Suites
- Refurbished the Historic Twin Spires
- New Dining & Entertainment Areas
- Added 404,000 Additional sq ft
- Increased Seating to 52,000
- New Grand Entrance
Churchill Downs features numerous private event spaces, which may be used year-round for parties, banquets and celebrations, with on-site catering available. General Admission to the track is $3.00 (except on Oaks and Derby days), and groups of 16 or more are eligible for special seating areas and discounted pricing.
For more information on Churchill Downs, visit their official website here.
Whether you are a newcomer to the sport of horse racing or a seasoned veteran, the Churchill Downs is a sight you won't want to miss during your stay here at the Holiday Inn Louisville Southwest Fair & Expo Center hotel. After a busy day at the races, come unwind and soak in our indoor heated pool!