This year, the Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 4. It is known as the fastest two minutes in sports. It occurs yearly at Churchill Downs in Kentucky but is widely observed across the US. If you want to enjoy the unique experience, here are some places to watch the Kentucky Derby in LA.
Range of Celebrations at Santa Anita
Visit Santa Anita Park for the Biggest Derby Party west of Kentucky. The Park will be filled with parties, festivals, and games as they celebrate the 150th Run for the Roses. Choose between general admission, reserved seats, a buffet at FrontRunner, or a party with live music in the Chandelier Room.
Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Dr. Arcadia, 626.574.7223; santaanita.com
Dine and Dance with Style at Redbird
Don your finest Derby attire in the Vibiana Courtyard to witness the most exciting two minutes in sports. Enjoy a magical afternoon from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. with a menu of southern delectables like Beeler’s Pork Ribs, Buttermilk Biscuits, and Derby Pie and Kentucky libations such as Mint Juleps and Kentucky Colonels. Dance along to Bluegrass by The Silver Mountain String Band. Tickets are $58 for food. Reserve on Opentable.
Redbird, 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles; 213.788.1191; Redbird.la
Derby Day Brunch Party at Baltaire
Dress in derby attire and don your hats for their annual Derby Day party at Baltaire! Enjoy an extra special DJ Brunch experience with a prix fixe menu, roaming carts serving Bloody Marys and champagne, a photo booth, and contests. Watch the Kentucky Derby race live!
Baltaire, 11647 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles; 424.273.1660; baltaire.com
Big Hats and Mint Juleps at the Shade Hotel
Get your big hats ready at Shade for a thrilling viewing experience of the Kentucky Derby from 12 – 5 p.m. Saddle up your horses and gather your friends as they stream the event live on their large-screen TVs with Mint Juleps and Derby Day Specials! Reserved seating for groups of 4 – 6 is available. $250 minimum spend. Call to reserve.
Shade Hotel, 1221 N Valley Dr, Manhattan Beach; 310.546.4995; mb.shadehotel.com
Party on the Pacific at Terranea
View the Kentucky Derby overlooking the Pacific with an afternoon run for the roses featuring festive cocktails from Moet & Chandon, Woodford Reserve, La Crema, and Kendall Jackson, delicious Southern bites, custom milliner creating fabulous derby hats, entertaining games, and a best-dressed contest! Hours 2 – 5 p.m. Adults $90. Reserve here.
Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Palos Verdes; 310.494.7891; terranea.com