How much does it cost to go to the Kentucky Derby 2023? How to get tickets
With the 149th Kentucky Derby upon us, the demand for tickets is intense to say the least. Here’s a look at ticket prices and moreover how you can get them
When it comes to horse racing, there’s nothing quite like the Kentucky Derby. From prestige to the purse, to equine perfection and who could forget the unforgettable smell of the track. It’s a show like no other and we imagine that this year’s edition despite some recent tragedy, will be as exciting as any other.
What are ticket prices like for the 2023 Kentucky Derby?
So, you want to attend horse racing’s biggest event, but you’re not sure how to get tickets and more importantly how much they’re going to cost you. Well, you’ve got a few options. Firstly you can go with your usual ticket sources for major events such as ticketsmarter or seatgeek, however, your best bet for packages - if that’s your thing - is probably going to be the official website of the Kentucky Derby itself. There you will find the packages which as you can imagine are extremely coveted for this event.
The @KentuckyDerby is already expecting a record turnout this year and at least 170,000 attendees based off of advance ticket sales 'and other metrics'
— Sportico (@Sportico) May 5, 2023
The mark to beat is 170,513 in 2015
Between celebrities and fashion, the red carpet is always a spectacle pic.twitter.com/yDgzUyvRrx
Indeed, those interested in attending can visit Derby Experiences to see a variety of packages combining Derby and Oaks seats with access to exclusive lounges, hotels, transportation, accommodations and more. At the time of writing package prices ranged from roughly $1,270 to $7,370 per person.
What about seating options?
To be clear, there are a range of seating options available at Churchill Downs. If you’d like to sit in the Grandstand where you will find backless bleacher-style seating on the first and second levels, then you’re looking at just short of $600 per person. These seats offer a few of the finishing stretch. Additionally, there are also stadium-style seats available on the second floor which overlook the turf and dirt tracks. Via the derby’s resale site, these started at approximately $920.
This weekend is the most famous horse race in the world, the @KentuckyDerby. It is also the oldest continuously running sports event in the U.S.
— Sportico (@Sportico) May 5, 2023
The first race in 1875 was held in front of a crowd of ~10,000. In 2022, the listed attendance was 147,294
Here are some details 🧵 pic.twitter.com/71yqtISYsE
A tidy sum for the Kentucky Derby winner
Of course, if you’d like to splash the cash you can also get one of the boxes which are located on the first and third levels and contain six seats. Naturally these are more expensive and will run you in the realm of $3,000. Lastly, we’ve got the infield reserved seats. These are situated in an uncovered bleacher - temporarily constructed - and offer a view of the final stretch along with access to betting windows, restrooms, the front side of the track and Paddock areas, as well as food, nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages. These start at around $750.
Are there cheap tickets for the Kentucky Derby?
Thankfully, yes. It’s not all about the swank and swing this weekend, for those who’d like to take in the action without paying out a downpayment on a house, you can actually purchase “general admission” tickets from the official website for just under $90. For that price you will be granted access to the infield, however, there will be no seating, access to the Paddock, nor front side seating areas. There’s no inclusive food or drinks either. For a slightly more economic option it might make sense to go with a two-day ticket which will run you approximately $135.