When it’s time to “Run for the Roses,” The Brown Hotel—just three miles from Churchill Downs—is Louisville’s most glamorous gathering place for Derby Day, welcoming a vibrant parade of celebrities and socialites celebrating the city’s most iconic event.

Often called “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby dates back to May 17, 1875, when Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr.—grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition—organized the first race. He was also the grandnephew of George Rogers Clark, founder of Louisville.

Held annually on the first Saturday in May, the Derby concludes the two-week-long Kentucky Derby Festival. As the first leg of the American Triple Crown, it stands apart from the Preakness and Belmont Stakes for its uninterrupted run since its inception. Few sporting moments are as moving as the horses stepping onto the track while the University of Louisville Marching Band plays “My Old Kentucky Home.”

At The Brown Hotel, we love sharing the unique traditions and lore of Derby Day with our guests, including:

  • The Mint Julep – A refreshing blend of bourbon, mint, and sugar, it’s the race’s signature drink.
  • Millionaire’s Row – The name for the premium box seats that attract celebrities and dignitaries, adding a touch of glamour to the grandstands.
  • The “Run for the Roses” – So named for the blanket of 554 red roses awarded to the winning horse each year.

Your Key to the Kentucky Derby

Many Derby guests stay at The Brown Hotel year after year. Our exclusive three-night package for the 2026 Kentucky Derby is now available. To inquire about rates and availability or to book your stay for 2026, please contact Ariel Williams at (502) 736-2989 or AWilliams@BrownHotel.com.

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LET'S DRINK TO EXPENSIVE TASTE

The Brown Hotel’s world-famous Derby parties were elevated even higher in 2018, when the event fell on the same day as Cinco de Mayo. To celebrate both occasions a specially crafted cocktail was created, the Patrón Agave Julep. Featuring two ultra-premium liquors, Patrón en Lalique: Series 2 and Old Rip Van Winkle 25-year-old bourbon, this $1,500 cocktail made headlines. Even Dylan Dreyer, host of The Today Show, stopped by to report on our most deluxe drink yet.