Welcome to our expert guide to Kentucky Derby tickets. We’re going to reveal everything that you need to know about securing tickets to attend this special sporting event. You’ll find out about prices, availability and where to buy them. So if you want to be amongst the huge crowd at the Kentucky Derby, read on.

How Much Do Kentucky Derby Tickets Cost?

Let’s start with a big question that will be of concern to anyone looking to attend this event. What is the cost of Kentucky Derby tickets? The good news is that there are a wide range of ticket options. They are available at a range of prices to suit all budgets.

If you are looking for the cheapest Kentucky Derby tickets available, standing tickets start at $275. Those who prefer to sit have a variety of choices. This year sees the debut of a new Paddock area, that has created a wide variety of elevated seating options.

Seating choices start at $650 and go up into the thousands for premium packages where every luxury is catered for. There are all-inclusive packages where all your food and drink is covered in the ticket price.

If you want to attend both the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, you can also find ticket packages to include both days.

When Do Kentucky Derby Tickets Go on Sale?

You can buy 150th Kentucky Derby tickets for 2024 right now. The event takes place on Saturday, May 4 2024.

Tickets for the 2025 Kentucky Derby will go on sale in the Fall of 2024. You can already put down a deposit with certain companies that offer Kentucky Derby packages that include tickets.

Buying Kentucky Derby Tickets – Where Can I Get Them?

You can buy 2024 Kentucky Derby tickets at the official website of the Churchill Downs track. It’s the best place to purchase tickets, as you can be assured that you are paying the right price. If tickets are still officially available for a certain area, then you will be able to find them on the Kentucky Derby website.

The official Kentucky Derby Ticket Exchange is where people can place their tickets for sale, if they no longer plan to attend the event. This is a good source of tickets, when certain areas are officially sold out. It means that you can often grab a late ticket to the Kentucky Derby, with people unable able to attend, listing their ticket at their last minute. Buy close enough to the race and you may even be able to pick one up at a bargain price.

Other ticketing agencies and resale sites may also have Derby tickets. Yet Kentucky Derby ticket prices can be expensive from such outlets, so make sure that you check to see what the official price should be, so that you can ensure that you’re happy with the value on offer.

Finally, there are companies that sell Kentucky Derby packages. These may include details such as travel to Churchill Downs and hotel accommodation. They will of course, also include a ticket, this might be another option to consider if you’re thinking about attending the Kentucky Derby.

What Other Events During Derby Week Can I Get Tickets for?

There are a wide range of Kentucky Derby events on the schedule that you can buy tickets for during Derby week and with it being the 150th Kentucky Derby, there are special celebrations planned. Here are some of the events that you can get tickets for during Derby week.

As mentioned previously, Saturday, May 4 is the Derby itself. For Kentucky Derby tickets 2024 and tickets for other events, head to the official Kentucky Derby website.

Churchill Downs Tickets Admission Policy

There is good news if you are planning to bring your family to the Kentucky Derby. You can bring your children for free in general admission areas. Each paying guest can bring in four children, which is defined as being 12 years of age or younger. For admission to seated areas, children will need a ticket.

You will need to be aware of some things before you attend the event. Check out what the dress policy is for the area to which you have access. General admission areas allow for casual attire, but other areas expect more formal clothing. Details can be found on the Kentucky Derby website.

Another aspect to consider is that you are limited in terms of the items that you can bring into Churchill Downs. Each ticket holder can bring in a bag, but it must be a clear bag that is no larger than twelve inches by six inches.

This list of additional prohibited items is a long one. It currently looks like this for Derby week.

Ticket holders will be searched when entering, so it is important to not have any of the above list on your person, as you will have to leave your possessions at the gate, in order to be able to go in.

Notable exceptions that you can bring into the venue are strollers, if you have a young child with you and diaper bags, though the latter will be searched.

If you exit Churchill Downs after entry, there is no re-admission, even if you have your ticket on you. So don’t go in unless you are sure that you will be staying until the finish of the Kentucky Derby.

If you’re looking to bet on this year’s race, make sure to check out our roundup of the best Kentucky Derby sportsbooks available offshore.

FAQs

How much are Kentucky Derby tickets?

The price of Kentucky Derby tickets starts at $275 for standing tickets. Seated tickets start at $650 and go up into the thousands, depending on the area and level of luxury that you require. 

Can I exchange my ticket if I can’t make it?

You cannot get a direct refund or exchange, but there are lots of ticket exchange and resale agencies allow you to list tickets for sporting events, including the Kentucky Derby. There is even an official Kentucky Derby Ticket Exchange where you can find a buyer for your ticket. 

How to get Kentucky Derby tickets?

The official Kentucky Derby website has tickets for sale. It also hosts the official Kentucky Derby Ticket Exchange, which can have tickets for areas which have officially hold out. Other ticket exchange and re-sale sites sell Derby tickets, which there are also companies selling package options.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring in to Churchill Downs?

There are a number of items that you are not allowed to bring into Churchill Downs, which include food and beverages, chairs and umbrellas. The full list is available on their website. Each guest is allowed to bring a bag with them, but it must be a clear bag that is no larger than twelve inches by six inches.

How does general admission work at the Kentucky Derby?

If you have a general admission ticket to the Kentucky Derby, you will be permitted to watch from the General Admission Infield area. Casual dress is allowed in this area and food and beverage concessions are available. 

What if it rains on Derby day?

The Kentucky Derby will go ahead regardless of whether there is rain or it is a sunny day. It is a good idea to check the weather forecast and wear appropriate clothing, including waterproofs if heavy rain is expected.

Is there a dress code for the Kentucky Derby?

It depends in what area of Churchill Downs your ticket is for. Some areas have an official dress code where people really dress up, while some areas allow casual attire. The Churchill Downs website has details of what is expected in different areas.