Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, opened in 1875 and became the enduring home of the Kentucky Derby, later also hosting the Kentucky Oaks and multiple Breeders’ Cup championships. Created through the efforts of Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. and built on land leased from John and Henry Churchill, it took the Churchill name in 1883. Under later owners, the track gained its famous twin-spired grandstand and the Derby was shortened to its modern mile and a quarter. Expanded repeatedly over time, Churchill Downs grew into a National Historic Landmark, a major entertainment venue, and one of the most recognizable and influential centers of American horse racing.

Louisville, Kentucky · United States