Here’s What It Costs to Attend the 2023 Kentucky Derby
The 149th Kentucky Derby is finally here, with the Run for the Roses set for Saturday. In accordance with tradition, attendees will descend upon Churchill Downs in their finest elaborate hats, mint julep in hand. While Saturday’s race is often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Derby is a weekend filled with festivities, starting on Friday.
For those who want to catch race-favorite Forte and the rest of the field in person, there are still plenty of opportunities to take part in the pomp and circumstance. And you don’t have to break the bank—unless you want to. Here’s a look at the seats that are still available at Churchill Downs, using insights from SI Tickets.
The Infield
The Infield is infamous for its boisterous and good-natured atmosphere, with its muddiness only adding to the charm. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own lawn chair or picnic blanket as the infield doesn’t include seating. An average of 80,000 onlookers pack the enclosed area, making the infield one of the more raucous parts of Churchill Downs. At a lower price point, the general admission seat is a popular and less pretentious way to take in the Derby.
Upper Club
The average ticket price for Saturday's race is posted at just above $1,000 on SI Tickets. It may not be Millionaire’s Row, but the upper club is still a thrilling way to catch the 20-horse race. Many of these clubhouse seats are covered, an added plus for a springtime event that is notorious for rain.
Millionaire’s Row
As the name suggests, Millionaire’s Row offers onlookers one of the most luxurious experiences at the track. The terrace not only provides the perfect vantage point, but the tiered balcony also adds to the air of extravagance the Kentucky Derby has come to be famous for. The exclusive viewing area also includes a reserved table with food and refreshments close by. As one of the more lavish parts of the Derby, fans interested in sitting in Millionaire’s Row will have to shell out some serious cash to secure a spot, with tickets going for nearly $7,000, per SI Tickets.
