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Horse racing in Kentucky is rich in history, dating back to 1789 when the first race course was laid out in Lexington. However, it was almost 100 years later, in 1875, that Churchill Downs officially opened and began its tradition as "Home of the Kentucky Derby." Click below for a photo view from that section.

1st Floor Grandstand
3rd Floor Grandstand
Eclipse Terrace Overlooking Paddock Area
5th Floor Millionaire's Row
Turf Terrace

Churchill Downs is located in South-Central Louisville, approximately three miles from the downtown business district and two miles from Louisville International Airport (Standiford Field). The racetrack is a short drive from any location in the metropolitan area.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO CHURCHILL DOWNS:

Eastbound (From New Albany): Exit 9 - Taylor Blvd. Travel north on Taylor .8 miles to Longfield Ave.; 1.0 miles to Queen Ave.; 1.2 miles to Central Ave. Turn right off Taylor to Churchill Downs gates.

Westbound (From I-64 - Lexington or St. Louis): Exit 10 - 3rd Street/Southern Pkwy. North on Southern Pkwy. Follow the signs to the track - 1.0 miles.

I-65:

Southbound (From Indianapolis/Downtown Louisville):
Take Exit 132 - Crittenden Drive (the exit will veer to the right).  Continue straight on Crittenden, take first right at Central Ave intersection. Continue straight on Central Ave. Track is approximately 1.6 miles from expressway.

Northbound or from Airport (From Nashville):
Take I-264 West (Watterson Expressway) to Exit 10- 3rd Street/Southern Pkwy. North on Southern Pkwy. Follow the signs to the track-1.0 miles.

From Downtown:

Follow Third Street south approximately three miles to Central Avenue. Turn right on Central Avenue. Churchill Downs is three blocks ahead on the left.

Track Info