Find hotels near Churchill Downs, Louisville

Top reasons to visit Churchill Downs

• Thrilling Horse Races: Experience the excitement of live horse racing at the iconic Churchill Downs Racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby.
• Churchill Downs Museum: Discover the rich history of horse racing and the legend of the Derby through engaging exhibits.
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: Explore nearby areas filled with rich history, luxury dining, and lively entertainment options.
• Sports and Events: Enjoy various sports events and live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the area.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of welcoming hotels and guesthouses, catering to all travelers.

Find great hotels near Churchill Downs

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations near Churchill Downs, ranging from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses. Perfect for both leisure and business travelers, these options are LGBTQIA-friendly and many are pet-friendly, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. Whether you're seeking the closest hotels or exploring the vibrant Louisville area, you'll find exceptional lodging that caters to your needs while enjoying the excitement of the races.

• Galt House Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Nestled just 6km from Churchill Downs, the Galt House Hotel offers a blend of family-friendly and business-oriented amenities. This 4-star hotel boasts a high guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, making it a popular choice for those seeking a spa-themed getaway. Guests can unwind at the full-service spa, which features in-room massages and daily spa access, or take a dip in the accessible pool. Additionally, families will appreciate the free cribs and dedicated services for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages.
• Omni Louisville Hotel: Located 5km from Churchill Downs, the Omni Louisville Hotel is a luxurious 4.5-star accommodation with a stellar guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This pet-friendly property caters to both business travelers and those looking for a relaxing escape with a full-service spa. Guests can indulge in facial treatments and manicures while their pets are well taken care of with amenities like food and water bowls. The hotel’s sophisticated atmosphere and commitment to service make it an excellent choice for visitors seeking both comfort and convenience.
• Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Ctr by IHG: Situated a mere 3km from Churchill Downs, the Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Center is a 3.5-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Ideal for families and business travelers, this hotel offers valuable amenities, including free cribs and a breakfast fee for children. With its proximity to the airport and the racetrack, this hotel is a practical choice for those who want easy access to local attractions and a welcoming atmosphere for both work and play.

Where to stay near Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs offers an exciting blend of friendly atmosphere and recreational activities, making it an ideal weekend getaway. Just a short drive from downtown Louisville, visitors can explore vibrant neighborhoods filled with rich history, luxury dining, and lively entertainment. Whether you're attending the races or enjoying excursions in the area, you'll be captivated by the charm and energy of this unique destination, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

• Louisville: As a bustling metropolis, Louisville is home to the iconic Churchill Downs, famous for the Kentucky Derby. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere with year-round attractions, particularly thriving in July and September to October. Visitors flock to Louisville for business, family outings, and outdoor experiences. The city offers a variety of activities such as shopping at local malls and enjoying recreational areas. Key landmarks include event conference venues and scenic lakes, making it a perfect base for exploring the rich culture and history of the region.
• Downtown Louisville: Located a mere 6km from Churchill Downs, Downtown Louisville is a vibrant neighborhood that pulses with energy. This area sees a rise in visitors during March to April and July. Travelers often come for business engagements, family activities, and urban exploration. Downtown is filled with popular venues like shopping centers and concert halls, offering an array of entertainment options. Notable attractions include event conference venues and bustling streets, ideal for enjoying the city's lively atmosphere and diverse dining scenes.
• South Louisville: South Louisville, where Churchill Downs is situated, offers an appealing blend of sports, adventure, and family-friendly experiences. This neighborhood sees peak visitor numbers in March, July, and September. It features a variety of activities including educational outings and shopping at local malls. Significant landmarks such as the racetrack and symbolic sites provide a glimpse into the local culture, while event conference venues cater to those traveling for business. South Louisville is perfect for those looking to enjoy an active and engaging vacation.

Things to do in Churchill Downs

Shopping

Within a short drive from Churchill Downs, you can explore the vibrant shopping scene at the Mall St. Matthews, featuring a variety of stores from fashion to home goods. If you're up for a drive, check out Oxmoor Center for more upscale shopping options and unique finds.

Recreation

At Churchill Downs, unwind at the on-site spa offering soothing massages and rejuvenating treatments. Engage in yoga sessions overlooking the racetrack for a unique twist on relaxation. Explore the surrounding area with leisurely walks or bike rides, soaking in the scenic beauty of this historic venue.

Adventure

At Churchill Downs, immerse yourself in the thrill of live thoroughbred racing, where you can feel the excitement in the air. Explore the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn about the rich history of the Derby, and enjoy guided tours that provide behind-the-scenes access to this iconic venue.

Nightlife

At Churchill Downs, the atmosphere is electric with live horse racing events often accompanied by vibrant parties and themed nights. Nearby, the Derby City Gaming features exciting gaming options and lively entertainment, while local bars and restaurants offer a taste of Southern hospitality and late-night fun.

Find the best attractions near Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is a hub of culture and excitement, perfect for every type of traveler. Explore the Churchill Downs Racetrack, visit the Churchill Downs Museum, and enjoy the nearby sports and art museums. For a complete experience, consider staying at hotels near the racetrack, ensuring easy access to all the attractions that cater to families and city explorers alike.

• Kentucky Kingdom: Located 3km from Churchill Downs, Kentucky Kingdom is a vibrant theme park offering thrilling rides and family-friendly entertainment. With attractions ranging from roller coasters to water slides, it’s a great spot for adventure seekers and families alike.
• Louisville Slugger Museum: Situated 6km away, the Louisville Slugger Museum celebrates the iconic baseball bat and the sport's rich history. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see how bats are made, and even hold game-used bats from baseball legends.
• Whiskey Row: Also 6km from Churchill Downs, Whiskey Row is a historic street known for its distilleries and bars. It offers a taste of Louisville’s vibrant culture, where you can enjoy local whiskey tastings and experience the city's nightlife.

Best time to go to Churchill Downs

The best time to visit Churchill Downs can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Churchill Downs falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Churchill Downs falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	36.5°F (2.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Churchill Downs

Traveling to Churchill Downs in LOUisville, Kentucky is convenient with several nearby airports. Louisville International Airport (SDF) is the closest, located 3km away, with notable hotels like the Omni Louisville Hotel and 21c Museum Hotel Louisville just 8km from the airport. Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is 135km away, offering options such as the 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati and Hyatt Regency Cincinnati, both 13km from the airport. Lastly, Blue Grass Airport (LEX) is 105km away, with hotels like The Campbell House Lexington 6km from it and offering shuttle services. Each airport provides accessible transportation to local hotels, ensuring a smooth arrival.