In This Guide
The Kentucky Derby: “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports”
“This Kentucky Derby, whatever it is—a race, an emotion, a turbulence, an explosion—is one of the most beautiful and violent and satisfying things I have ever experienced.”
—John Steinbeck
On the first Saturday of May, all eyes turn to Churchill Downs racetrack for the Kentucky Derby, the first jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown. This guide prepares you for Kentucky Derby Day, linking to best sources for race history and traditions, race coverage, travel advice and party-throwing tips, as well as where to bet the Kentucky Derby.
—John Steinbeck
On the first Saturday of May, all eyes turn to Churchill Downs racetrack for the Kentucky Derby, the first jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown. This guide prepares you for Kentucky Derby Day, linking to best sources for race history and traditions, race coverage, travel advice and party-throwing tips, as well as where to bet the Kentucky Derby.
Expand All Guide SectionsHistory and Traditions of the Kentucky Derby
Held annually since 1875, the Kentucky Derby is rich in history and colorful tradition. This ... read more »
Kentucky Derby News and Handicapping Information
Whether you're an experienced handicapper or a casual fan just trying to learn who's running this ... read more »
Betting on the Kentucky Derby
Find out how and where to bet on the Derby and other races on Saturday.
Insights for Betting on the Kentucky Derby
- For an overview on how to wager on horse racing, view TVG’s “Learn To Play” instructional video.
- Read findingDulcinea’s “How to Pick the Winner of the Kentucky Derby” for a tutorial on how to handicap the Derby.
- Most racetracks that are open for live racing, and most off-track betting outlets, in the U.S. offer betting on the Kentucky Derby. The NTRA provides a calendar of racing at all U.S. tracks.
- The four online wagering providers listed below are the most reliable sites that permit same-day funding of a new account and operate on a national scale. There are other legitimate providers, such as Autotote and ones associated with racetracks, but most do not allow same-day funding of a new account. Be wary of any other operator; they may be located offshore and may not be legally permitted to accept wagers from U.S. residents.
- Of the four sites listed below, only TwinSpires offer wagering to residents of all 50 states.
Top Sites for Betting on the Kentucky Derby
Youbet
is the largest online horse racing wagering site. Placing wagers on races requires no membership costs, but there are subscription plans that offer live streaming and race replays.
TwinSpires
is managed by Churchill Downs Incorporated and offers wagering on races at Churchill Downs to all U.S. residents. Accounts require an initial $50 deposit, but there is no monthly subscription fee. Account holders have access to live streaming video and race replays, past performances and handicapping software.
XpressBet
offers wagering online and by phone to residents in 32 states. Opening an account is free with a $50 deposit.
TVG
is a horse racing television network that allows people in 15 states to bet online, by phone and with with a television remote.
Attending the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is an all-day party for everyone, from the big shots in Millionaire's Row to the ... read more »
Throwing a Kentucky Derby Viewing Party
You don't have to be at Churchill Downs to party on Derby Day. This section will help you plan the ... read more »
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