21c Does Derby
The smell of freshly cut Bluegrass ...
The sweetness of a cold Mint Julep ...
A parade of seersucker, fabulous hats, and jockey silks ...
The bugle call followed by the thunder of three-year old hooves ...
The sights and sounds of Derby season in Louisville are unmistakable, but it's time
to modernize your Derby tradition. Prepare to Run for the Roses and the Red Penguins.
Located less than five miles from Churchill Downs in the heart of downtown's historic
Museum Row, 21c is THE place to call home for the weekend of two of sports greatest
spectacles—the Kentucky Oaks Race on Friday and the Kentucky Derby on Saturday—and
experience 21c's unique blend of Southern-style hospitality, modern design, and
accessible luxury, while being surrounded by an impressive collection of contemporary
art from living artists.
Like those famed two minutes at Churchill Downs, 21c Museum Hotel is an experience
unlike any other. Art is integral to the character of 21c. It is not just decoration—it
is at the heart of 21c. The art of the 21st century is around every corner
- in the elevators, courtyards, hallways, landings, public restrooms, roof, floor,
and in the Proof on Main restaurant and bar. Guests are encouraged to explore and
engage. At 21c art is an unexpected encounter, a new idea, a starting point for
a lively conversation.
21 Things To Do During Derby Season
- Sip a Mint Julep at the Bar in Proof
on Main
- Score a table a Louisville hotspot (and local favorite) Proof on Main
- Explore the exhibitions with a
docent tour at 21c Museum
- Score the perfect hat at the 21c Museum Shop
- Relax with a steam and massage in 21c Spa
- Hit the streets for the Annual Pegasus Parade
- Take in some tunes and dance like a fool at the Derby Eve Jam
- Sample some Burgoo – a local tradition – and try to decipher its ingredients
- Get up early for
Dawn at the Downs
- Indulge your sweet tooth and sample some famous Derby Pie
- Tour the city in style with the
21c Pip Mobile
- Embark on a journey through the Urban Bourbon Trail
- Stock up on sustainable souvenirs at the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft
- Disregard your diet while noshing at Waterfront Park's Chow Wagon
- Party like a rockstar – with bona fide rockstars – at 4th Street Live
- Poke along Bardstown Road for antiquing and boutiques
- Immerse yourself in Southern culture during a
Horse Farm Tour
- Explore Louisville’s other cultural offerings with a trip down Museum Row
- Try to spot celebs heading to the Barnstable Brown Party
- Embrace your wild side in the infamous "infield" (NOT for the faint of
heart!)
- Win on a long-shot while betting the ponies at Churchill Downs
Chomping at the bit for 2011 Derby reservations?
Contact Karen Fuller 502.217.6311 to learn more about three-night Derby
weekend availability.
Looking to host the Triple Crown of Derby parties?
Contact Brittany Goodman at 502.582.6308 to learn more about private event
availability.
Even if you're unable to visit Louisville during Derby season, the Spring &
Fall meets at Churchill Downs and Keeneland in neighboring Lexington allow visitors
to experience the Sport of Kings in the grand tradition.
Seasonal packages including tickets to the races are available.