Did you know there’s a vibrant community of horses and horsemen who live and work on the Backside of Churchill Downs? (Yes, there’s even a church onsite!) In this guided van tour, you’ll ride among the signature green-roofed barns that are home to 1,400 horses during the racing and training season. In addition to the horses, you’ll also see some of the hundreds of people who live and work on the Backside as they care for and train the world-class Thoroughbreds. You never know who you may see on the Backside – a legendary Derby trainer or even next year’s Triple Crown winner! Bring your camera for panoramic views of the racetrack, Grandstand, and the historic Twin Spires™.
The Barn and Backside Tour is a great tour for horse lovers, but please note that guests will not be able to touch the horses.
1 hour
Maximum of 8 guests
Guests must be at least 8 years old and taller than 57 inches
Minimal walking, however the tour includes getting in and out of a passenger van and a few stairs
Includes General Admission to Museum and a viewing of our epic 360° film, “The Greatest Race”
Please note: Exciting construction projects are underway at Churchill Downs! For the safety of guests, tours may be re-routed at times.
You may enter the Museum at any time on the date of your ticket. The time you select is the departure time for your Barn and Backside Tour. All tours depart on schedule and unfortunately, cannot be delayed for tardy or missing ticket holders.
When choosing a time for your tour, please make sure that if you are purchasing additional tours that the start and end times do not overlap.
Tours are conducted rain or shine. Umbrellas are prohibited for the safety of Thoroughbreds and riders on the track. In the event of rain, we suggest bringing ponchos and rain boots. Ponchos are available for purchase in The Kentucky Derby Museum Store.
Please note: On rare occasions, tours are subject to change without advance notice and may be rerouted. Check our calendar to view amendments to our normal hours of operation.
All tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE. For our ticket policy, please check here.
Visited on a Sunday morning in March. Took the Barn and Backside tour with Ferguson. He was OUTSTANDING! He was engaging and friendly and very knowledgeable about the horses, the track and the entire property. Some of the exhibits in the museum were under construction so we were limited in our experience but it was still fascinating and a good visit. The movie is powerful-you understand the commitment the trainers devote to these beautiful animals. Highly recommend a visit!
— Lori S., Tripadvisor
March, 2021