Looking For A Kentucky Derby Party In New York? Look No Further

The Kentucky Derby: Known for its heralded venue, historic races, mint juleps and arguably the largest collection of colorful clothing and oversized/wild hats.

Taking part of the festivities at Churchill Downs creates some of the most memorable moments in one’s life. A weekendlong affair, really, highlighted by the largest cocktail party in Louisville.

Of course, not everyone has the means to make it to Kentucky for the first leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown on May 7. Fear not. Not only can New York residents take part in Kentucky Derby betting via the TVG app, but they can also get a taste of the Derby closer to home.

Here’s a few PlayNY picked out that might be worth your while:

The Derby Party at National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will stage an afternoon of Derby action in Saratoga Springs.

From 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with tickets ranging between $30 and $180, the soirée will feature the following:

Coverage of the Kentucky Derby pre-show throughout the Museum
Samplings from local restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries
Live music with the East End Boys
Awards for the best Derby attire with Natalie Sillery of Saratoga Trunk- dress to impress!
Smartphone wagering with NYRA Bets
Race day inspired 50/50 Raffle
Silent Auction
LIVE AUCTION of a 2% share in a West Point Thoroughbreds NY-bred GOOD SAMARITAN colt during his racing career
Live airing of the Kentucky Derby in the NEW Hall of Fame
Giveaways…and more!

Bourbon at Belmont Park Racetrack

When the Kentucky Derby concludes, the Belmont Stakes will take center stage for the second leg of the Triple Crown.

On Saturday, however, the Elmont racetrack will offer tickets ranging from $15 to $75 for its four-hour event starting at 3:30 p.m.

This special event will feature more than thirty bourbons for tasting, a selection of craft beers and a live simulcast of the Kentucky Derby. With grandstand viewing of the track, partygoers will enjoy live event day racing and convenient betting windows.

Derby Day at Somewhere Nowhere NYC

In New York City from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., come cheer on your favorite horse, sip on some mint juleps and try to win the $1,000 prize by showing off your fanciest Churchill Downs-ready hat and outfit.

Now in its 11th year of Derby action, the venue claims it as the largest and longest-running annual Derby Day celebration.

Every year, Somewhere Nowhere brings a new level of experiences and surprises. That includes over 2,000 roses across the entirety of the venue and a curated menu of light bites and cocktails. What’s more, guests will enjoy the city’s best live DJs, live jazz bands and special performances by a trumpet player, burlesque dancers and much more.

Purchase of admission is highly recommended due to high demand. And again, the best outfit will receive a $1,000 prize. Two different types of admission tiers exist: Open-bar Reservation or Table Reservations. Tickets range from $45 to $4,000.

NYC Derby Party at Tanner Smith’s

Throw on your fanciest, Churchill Downs-ready hat and place your bets on a horse with the wittiest name for the 2022 Kentucky Derby Day party at this New York City get-together. Located in Midtown Manhattan by Central Park, you can celebrate the wins and the losses while having a great time.

With tickets costing $150, and going from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., the event will feature:

4 Hour Premium Open Bar from 3-7pm
Appetizer platter at your table
Live music / DJ throughout the day
Live band from 3pm – 5pm
Showcase your fanciest and spiffiest derby hats & suits

Guests can also enjoy Derby-themed cocktails such as Woodford Reserve mint juleps, cucumber mules and blackberry thyme bourbon lemonades. VIP admission will include table-side bottle service and an extensive food menu.