GROUPS & OCCASIONS

There are venues — and then there are landmarks. Plan your group outing or event with us at Churchill Downs.

Event Venue & Conference Space at Churchill Downs

At Churchill Downs, your event unfolds at the home of the Kentucky Derby, where more than a century of tradition meets modern hospitality. From corporate conferences and association receptions to weddings and milestone celebrations, our distinctive event spaces offer an experience your guests will remember long after the final toast.

Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs offers flexible indoor and outdoor venues for 50 to more than 5,000 guests — just minutes from downtown and the Kentucky International Convention Center.

A Premier Louisville Event Venue

When planners search for event venues in Louisville, KY, they’re looking for more than square footage. They’re looking for atmosphere, accessibility, and professional execution.

Churchill Downs delivers all three, and more.

We proudly host:

Corporate events and company celebrations
Conference welcome receptions and closing parties
Offsite conference events near downtown Louisville
Association galas and awards ceremonies
Executive meetings and board dinners
Social and milestone gatherings

Whether you're organizing a conference reception for 1,000 or an intimate executive dinner, our team ensures every detail reflects the occasion.

An Iconic Setting, Minutes from Downtown

Churchill Downs is conveniently located near:

Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC)
Downtown Louisville hotels
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport
Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC)

For conference and event planners seeking an offsite venue in Louisville to add to your conference experience, Churchill Downs offers a seamless transition from convention floor to unforgettable experience.

Here, your guests step into a setting unlike anywhere else in the city.

Make your experience at historic Churchill Downs unforgettable!

Race Day Hospitality

Churchill Downs is the Home of the Kentucky Derby. However, the action doesn’t stop after the most exciting two minutes in sports. Enjoy thoroughbred racing and delectable dining options that are available on more than 70 live race days.

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Special Event Rentals

Looking to plan a group or corporate outing at Churchill Downs? Celebrate with your guests as we offer a stunning setting for your occasion. We are able to accommodate groups for both race days and non-race days.

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Event Spaces

Churchill Downs hosts a number of unique spaces to fit your group and accommodate your ideal experience. Our beautiful venues at Churchill Downs can accommodate various events, banquets, large groups or corporate meetings.

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Versatile Spaces. Unforgettable Backdrops.

View a sample collection of event spaces offers flexibility without sacrificing character. The selection below highlight spaces that are exceptional for your conference event.

Ford First Turn Club

Positioned along the first turn of the legendary Churchill Downs racetrack, First Turn Club offers panoramic track views and expansive sightlines, ideal for:

Conference welcome receptions
Closing celebrations and awards ceremonies
Large corporate receptions
Association networking events
Sponsor showcases and branded activations

Millionaires Row

Overlooking the historic racetrack, Millionaires Row provides sweeping views and an energizing atmosphere ideal for:

Conference receptions
Corporate celebrations
Large networking events
Sponsor activations

Club SI

Club SI combines modern finishes with one-of-a-kind Paddock views, creating a memorable setting ideal for:

Corporate networking events
Association receptions
Sponsor appreciation events
Executive cocktail functions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Check an item off your guests' bucket lists at Louisville's must-visit venue. Our stunning spaces alongside the iconic TwinSpires will transform your event into an experience your guests will always remember.

Have more questions? Contact our Special Events staff at myspecialevent@kyderby.com or fill out the form below!

More FAQs

Churchill Downs is located just minutes from downtown Louisville and the Kentucky International Convention Center, making it an ideal offsite venue for conference receptions and corporate events.

Our spaces accommodate events ranging from 50 to over 5,000 guests, depending on layout and location.

Yes. Churchill Downs offers full-service in-house catering and bar packages through Levy Restaurants for all conference and corporate events.

Yes. Our flexible spaces are ideal for large-scale conference functions, association events, and corporate receptions.