We are thinking of going to the derby next year, but have heard it's impossible to get decent lodging, tickets or anything else for this event. We four have always put this at the top of our must do. Any ideas??

You can get infield tickets on race day, as for getting tickets in the stands I would write to or call Churchill Downs. Same with hotels. You can always stay in Lexington, it is not a bad drive from Louisville and you should not have any problems getting a room there Derby weekend. The other suggestion is to rent a Motor Home, a lot of gas stations etc. close to Churchill will rent spaces if you get there early.

Hi lauriann, I lived in Louisville for many years and still return eah year for the derby, there is nothing else like it! As far as lodging, the large upscale hotels in downtown, by the airport, and close to Churhill Downs are booked up to two years ahead for the derby! for next year, you should get your hotel now (yesterday if possible)! Look for hotels on the east side of town (maybe a 15 min. drive there are many moderate tourist hotels off Hurstbourne Lane such as a courtyard Mariott, fairfield Inn, Double tree, Days Inn, etc. They will not have the character and stylle of the old (expensive) hotels downtown suh as Seelbach, Brown, Galt House, etc. As for actually going to the derby, if you want to get CRAZY in the infield you can walk up and get tickets the day of. this was a great but one time only experiene for me. Think VERY drunk people doing mudslides and girls flashing their chests for drinks a la Mardi gras or woodstock! Some people get tickets for the Paddock Area. Easy to get must must be done ahead of time. If you do this, you will not have a seat, neither will you see the actual race (except on the big screen) but you can get dressed up (as opposed to the infield) and wander around the barns, betting windows, and watch the horses parade out for the races. Doesn't sound wonderful, but it is one of my favorite places. To get grandtand tickets and seats, be prepared to drop cash. They are about $150-$300 /person for the worst seats and need to be bought now for next year! I have also done this a couple of times and it is nice but bring plenty of sunblock and be sure to dress to the nines with a derby hat! finally there are boxes and even millionaires row, forget this unless of ourse you are a millionaire! Have a great time.

Maybe you can help me: I have to go to Lexington in a few weeks ... tell me a really excellent restaurant ... I'm just not having much luck. Thanks.

The best option I've come across for the Derby is the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. They have all three of the boats in Louisville for the Derby,and have various packages that include all of your meals and accommodations, plus Derby tickets. The Delta Queen's package includes GRANDSTAND tickets because they have been in business for so long! One of these years, I'll make it to the Derby.

What kind of food are you looking for in Lexington? My favorite Japanese place, Tatchibana, is on Newtown Pike near the interstate. There is also a very good Mexican restaurant (name escapes me) on New Circle right near Newtown Pike.

L,

I live in Lexington. Just email me as to what type of restaurant you want, how much you want (or are willing) to spend and I'll give you all the information you need.

L-The Merrick Inn can't be beat for southern charm and food.