The process of obtaining Kentucky Derby tickets depends first on where you want to watch the Derby. There are several different types of Kentucky Derby tickets available for purchase: reserved seating tickets, Infield tickets, Infield Club tickets, Infield Suites tickets, and Marquee Village tickets (Seating Chart).
Reserved Seating Tickets
Reserved seating tickets apply to all of the seating inside of Churchill Downs. These tickets are made available for purchase annually by invitation only. To be considered for the opportunity to purchase Kentucky Derby reserved seating tickets, you must fill out an application through the Kentucky Derby Website. The only other option for getting inside of Churchill Downs on Derby Day is to buy reserved seating tickets through a ticket dealer such as TicketsNow (Find Tickets).
If you decide to fill out an application to be considered for the opportunity to purchase Kentucky Derby reserved seating tickets, you may want to first consider becoming a Twin Spires member. Twin Spires members get the first offer for reserved seating tickets. For more information on becoming a Twin Spires member, visit the Churchill Downs website.
Derby Infield Tickets
In 2009, Churchill Downs will begin offering Infield tickets for sale through its website for both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby. However, tickets are still available for purchase at the gate for both races. Churchill Downs does not limit the number of people that can be admitted to the infield on Derby weekend, so you don’t have to worry about tickets selling out. Admittance to the infield is available at any of the gates, though Derby officials recommend that visitors come in through gate three.
Infield Club Tickets
For the 2009 Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby 135, Churchill Downs has added a new Infield sports bar, The Infield Club. The Infield Club will allow people to experience the excitement of the Derby Infield in the comfort of a shaded area with a horseshoe-shaped bar, upgraded restrooms, and a DJ.
This is the perfect solution for the person who doesn't want to endure the crazy partying of the Infield but also doesn't want to (or can't) get reserved seating tickets. Tickets are available through the Kentucky Derby Website until they sell out, then you can purchase them through a ticket broker such as TicketsNow (Find Tickets).
Infield Suites and Marquee Village Tickets
The Infield Suites and Marquee Village areas are trackside seating areas with food and drink service and climate control. Tickets for the Infield Suites and Marquee Village can be purchased through the Kentucky Derby Website without the invitation required of the Grandstand seating or other reserved seating areas.
