Visitors can take walking guided tours of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum’s paddock area (weather permitting) where they will visit the Museum’s resident Thoroughbred and miniature horse. Located outside in the garden terrace are the gravesites of three famous Kentucky Derby winners, Carry Back (1961), Swaps (1955), Brokers Tip (1933), and Sunny’s Halo (1983).

In addition to the historic guided walking tour of Churchill Downs (included in your admission price), the Kentucky Derby Museum provides two wonderful tours that give visitors the opportunity to see areas that are closed off to the general public. The first of these tours is the Barn and Backside Van Tour (Available March 15 - November 30), where guides take up to 12 guests on a one-hour tour of Churchill Downs’ stable area and infield. There are two spots for picture taking, time permitting. Tours are offered mid-March through November.

Group Breakfast Tours are available for groups 15 or more through the Group sales department of the Museum.

Groups and individual guests may also be treated to the exclusive VIP areas of Churchill Downs with the Behind the Scenes Walking Tour . Tour guides will take up to 15 guests on a one-hour tour Churchill Downs’ Millionaire’s Row, Jockey’s Quarters and Press Box. While visiting each location, guests are shown a brief video to illustrate the atmosphere of Derby Day. These areas are not accessible to the general public and can only be seen on the Museum tour. Due to the exclusive nature of this tour, the Behind the Scenes Walking Tour will not be available during Derby week and during racing days of the Spring and Fall Meets. (The track is generally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the meets.)

The Kentucky Derby Museum is open daily to the public with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Oaks Day, Derby Day, and Breeder’s Cup when in Louisville.