Is this a Derby plan?

Two years ago a friend and I went to the Oaks and the Derby. Of course in our cheap (!!! like $495 for Derby Day) seats we couldn%26#39;t see anything, but we had a great time. We have been thinking of coming back, but with a twist. We%26#39;d stay in Lexington again (which we enjoyed for its farm and distillery access) and get better tickets for Oaks Day, but for Derby Day, go to the simulcast facility at Keeneland. I%26#39;m assuming that it would be crowded and sort of festive with lots of serious race fans; is this right? One thing we loved about our trip was that everyone in town shared our passion--';So, who do ya like?'; everywhere! But it would lbe nice to actually ';see'; the Derby too!

Any thoughts?

Is this a Derby plan?

Keeneland hosts the world%26#39;s largest Derby party, but the grounds at Keeneland are so large that you%26#39;re not uncomfortable by any means. There are usually around 20,000 people at the party, but a couple of days during the Keeneland Spring Meet there were around 30,000!

It is a very fun, festive atmosphere with a hat contest, ';build your own stuffed horse booth'; and other activities going on all day. A big plus is they serve the signature Derby drink of Mint Juleps in official Kentucky Derby glasses.

Hope this helps!

Is this a Derby plan?

If you have not been to Keeneland, it is beautiful!! As for Derby Day, I know that there will be a lot people there; ready to enjoy food, drinks, and the races. On Derby Days in the past, even the ';drive thru'; betting windows are backed up to the entrance (for those that cannot stay for the party). I also know that many people get to Keeneland early, and spend the day tailgating before the actual race runs. Keeneland on Derby Day is a blast! Have a great time!

Keeneland is a zoo on Derby Day. It can be a lot of fun, but be prepared for a real crowd. Parking can be a nightmare unless you get there early, and by early, I mean the morning. The problem is that the usual parking and traffic patterns and policies are not in effect on Derby Day like they are during the regular meets. People park in traffic lanes, on the sides of buildings, and in the trees.

We are going out there around lunch time, stay for a few races on the undercard, make our Derby bets, and then go home to watch the race.