So maybe you can’t make it to the Kentucky Derby, but we still found a way to make it feel like you’re right there! Some of the places we found for Derby Day are well-known, but we also have a few you might not have heard of. Grab your mint juleps and your sun hats – it’s Derby time!

Belterra Park – Cincinnati

For Cincinnati people, Belterra may be your best bet. Originally called River Downs, Belterra has changed up its style. This track features seasonal thoroughbred racing as well as a year-round simulcast. It can feel like Derby time any time here!

Belterra also has multiple restaurants, including The Market Buffet and the Stadium Sports Bar & Grill. There also are several slot machines.

Belterra will have live thoroughbred racing, as well as celebrations and bourbon for the Kentucky Oaks on May 3rd and the Kentucky Derby on May 4th.

Turfway Park – Florence, KY

Live racing doesn’t return to Turfway until December, but they still have a simulcast Wednesday-Sunday year-round.

For Derby Day, they will be hosting a party with free admission in the Paddock with DV8. There’s a hat contest too! For more information, check here.

Courtesy of Turfway

Keeneland – Lexington, KY

Keeneland celebrates Derby Day in their own way! They will have an Oaks Brunch on the Lawn on May 3rd. Brunch is from 8:30 am until 11:00 am and includes cocktails, live music, and live painting by Kayla Weber Art.

Derby and Oaks are open to the public May 3rd and 4th.

Patrons will be able to wager on the simulcast for the Derby and other races.

The Red Mile – Lexington, KY

The Red Mile features live racing starting in July, but you can come for the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby!

They will have free general admission to their Simulcasting Floor and Gaming Floor Saturday May 4th. Doors open at 9 am to the Silmulcasting floor and tellers begin taking wagers at 10 am. There is simulcasting on the second floor and more than 900 instant Racing machines on the first.

There will be reserved seating and private dining in the Clubhouse for $50 per person.

Lizzie K.

Author: Lizzie K.

Lizzie is the Content Specialist for Date Night Cincinnati. She handles the content for the website as well as the print edition of Date Night. When she isn't working, Lizzie explores her city finding new places to hang out. Other than a journalist, Lizzie identifies as a gamer, music enthusiast and fictional writer.