Kentucky derby '09

Considering going to the Kentucky Derby this year and making about a 5-6 day trip of it. I was not sure if we should stay right in Louisville or stay in Lexington or elsewhere and drive in for the Derby. Any recommendations? Looking for interesting activities, good restaurants and don%26#39;t mind shopping. Thanks

Kentucky derby '09

The drive from Lex to Louisville takes 60 to 90 minutes depending upon where you stay. Not a big deal driving up in the morning, but may present a problem on the drive back if you have a bunch of Mint Juleps during Derby.

I wonder if some of the Lexington hotels offer Derby packages that would include some sort of transportation (bus or van) back %26amp; forth to the Derby. Might be worth checking into.

If you would prefer to stay in Louisville, I think you could find something. But it may cost quite a bit more since I hear that the area hotels raise their rates for Derby weekend and require three night minimums etc.

Also be sure to check hotels in New Albany and Clarksville, Indiana. Both cities are just across the river from downtown Louisville and would only be a 10 to 20 minute drive. Shelbyville, KY may be another option. It%26#39;s about a 25 minute drive.

When checking on availability, I think you%26#39;ll do better to call the hotels directly. Instead of just searching online. Many hotels are already booked up for Derby 2009, so you%26#39;ll need to start checking immediately.

If it were me, I%26#39;d try to stay in or around Louisville (or Southern Indiana) during Derby weekend. There%26#39;s a lot going on and it would be a shame to come all this way and not take full advantage. You could always split the trip and spend a couple of days in Lexington after the Derby.

If you can%26#39;t find a flight into Louisville International Airport, check Cincinnati, OH and/or Lexington, KY. Either airport would be a quick hour drive.

My last bit of advice is to make your Derby dining reservations now. Some of the more popular places are probably already booked. Check http://www.opentable.com/start.aspx?m=43

These restaurants all show availability. They are all very good.

Palermo Viejo (Argentian steakhouse)

Avalon (Contemporary)

Asiatique (Asian)

Caf茅 Lou Lou (New Orleans/Italian)

For me. Jack Fry%26#39;s would be the Holy Grail of reservations to get for Derby, but Louisville has tons of great restaurants.

Note: I don%26#39;t think Jack Fry%26#39;s is on OpenTable.com. You%26#39;d have to call them directly.

http://www.jackfrys.com/

Good luck.