Barn and Backside Tour

Daily, various times, non-racing days

This is your opportunity to experience the Backside of Churchill Downs Racetrack, an area that is closed to the general public and is available only to Museum guests! 

Ride past the iconic green-roofed barns that can house more than 1,400 horses, and learn about the very stall Secretariat called home at Churchill Downs. During this guided van tour, you will learn about the fascinating community that lives on the Backside, (yes, there’s even a church on site!) Hop out to take in the panoramic view of the famed racetrack, grandstand and Twin Spires and snap pictures. 

Since it’s the “off-season” horses aren’t currently housed on the Backside. Come back at the end of March to see horses in action!

Tour Details:

• Daily, various times, non-racing days, on "off-season" through March 31
• 60 minutes
• Up to 6 guests within same group/household (due to COVID-19 precautions)
• Age restricted (must be 8 and older, or taller than 57 inches)
• $75 flat fee for group up to six guests

Purchase Tickets

Tour Times:

• Through March 14:
  
  • Monday - Saturday
    10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
  • Sunday
    11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
• After March 14:
  • Monday - Saturday
    8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
  • Sunday
    11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Important to note:

• Children on this tour are required to be eight years and older, or taller than 57 inches, in compliance with Kentucky state law.
• Van stops will accommodate picture-taking trackside (time and weather permitting).
• Guests must be escorted by a tour guide at all times and are not allowed inside of barns
• Tours are available rain or shine. Umbrellas are not allowed due to safety restrictions for Thoroughbreds on the track. In the event it does rain we suggest bringing ponchos and rain boots. The Derby Museum Gift Shop also sells souvenir ponchos.