VISITING INFORMATION

Typically, Churchill Downs has three meets a year where live racing occurs. There is the Spring Meet which begins after the Kentucky Derby. Later in the year there is also the September and Fall Meet which concludes after Thanksgiving weekend. Check out the calendar to see all of our race days here.

The exact race time can vary from day to day during the meet. We encourage you to review the calendar to see all post times for the day you plan on attending the races.

Churchill Downs has a number of race days with unique features. This can include family adventure days with activities for children, Twilight Thursday for evening races with discount drinks and food trucks and Downs After Dark which have night time racing and themes to name a few. We encourage you to check out the specific featured events for the upcoming meet.

Yes, there are restrictions on items you can bring, including bag size limitations and prohibited items. Check out the full list for the most up-to-date information.

While there typically isn’t the need to dress up like Derby, there are some instances and areas that have dress codes or where themed attire is encouraged. Downs After Dark for example are night time races with themed events and encouraged. In some locations, like membership clubs and suites, there are certain levels of dress required. Follow this helpful information, and check the seating areas pages you are attending for specific Do’s and Dont's.

Track Casual
Applicable Areas: Aristides Lounge, Champions Bar & Balcony, First Turn Club Dining, Gold Room, Homestretch Club, Loft at Aristides Lounge, Millionaires Row, Skye Terrace, Stakes Room & Balcony, Winner’s Circle Suites

Do's: Jackets and blazers optional. Vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts and slacks are appropriate, as are golf shorts and capris.

Don'ts: Worn or torn garments, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, frayed or torn denim, and flip-flops are considered inappropriate attire.

Smart Casual

Applicable Areas: Derby Room, Grand Foyer, Jockey Club Suites, Matt Winn’s Steakhouse, Oaks Room, Roses Lounge, Starting Gate Suites, Triple Crown Room & Balcony, Turf Club Boxes

Do's: Jackets and blazers optional. Vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts and slacks are appropriate.

Don'ts: Cargo shorts, t-shirts, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, frayed or torn denim or shorts, and tennis shoes are considered inappropriate attire.

*Dress Code for Roses Lounge is Smart Casual, except for Derby Week, Mother's Day, Preakness, Belmont, Thanksgiving and the Clark Handicap when this room is considered to be Turf Club Roses Lounge. On these days the dress code is Business Casual.

Business Casual

Applicable Areas: Directors Room, Finish Line Suites & Balcony, Spires Terrace & Suites, Trophy Room, Turf Club Roses Lounge, Turf Club Terrace & Balcony

Do's: Jackets and blazers, vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, slacks and capri pants are appropriate.

Don'ts: Jeans/denim, shorts, t-shirts, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, and flip-flops are all considered inappropriate attire & are not permitted in these areas.

Churchill Downs race days run rain or shine. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate attire, including rain gear, if necessary. Check out the full list for the most up-to-date information.