The cost to attend the Kentucky Derby varies widely depending on the type of ticket and experience you want:
- General Admission (Infield): The cheapest tickets start around $120 to $136 for infield general admission, which offers standing room and access to large video screens but may not guarantee a clear view of the racetrack
- Infield Final Turn General Admission: These tickets, offering a private standing area, start at about $220 to $320
- Reserved Seating: Reserved seats with better views start around $700 to $1,100, with prices varying by location such as First Turn or Grandstand seating
- Dining and Hospitality Packages: Dining tickets with food and beverage included start around $1,700, with premium dining and hospitality packages costing several thousand dollars
- VIP and Luxury Suites: Private suites and exclusive club seating can cost from $135,000 and up, catering to the wealthiest attendees
- Derby Experiences Packages: All-inclusive packages that include tickets, hospitality, hotel stays, and transportation start at about $2,499 and can go higher depending on the level of luxury and services
On average, ticket prices for the Kentucky Derby in recent years have been noted around $1,200 to $1,300, but prices fluctuate based on demand and resale market conditions
. In summary, attending the Kentucky Derby can cost from as low as about $120 for basic general admission to tens of thousands or even over $100,000 for premium suites and exclusive experiences
. Most casual fans can expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars for a decent reserved seat or a better infield experience.
