Where is the best place to park for the Kentucky Derby if I don’t have a reserved parking spot?

Question

I know there is parking at the fairgrounds and cardinal stadium but I can imagine catching the shuttle back after the race is completely miserable when 100,000 people are trying to get on.

Answer 1

I parked down the block at a Walgreen's.  $5.  No waiting to get out.

Answer 2

Park in someones yard. You can park within yards of the track. Of course the closer you are, the more expensive. Bring some party supplies, go early, and shop around a bit. Most neighbors have parties afterwards, no rush to go.

Answer 3

Actually from Papa John's Stadium the walk isn't that bad.  We parked there and walked the night we went to the Rolling Stones concert at Churchill Downs.  To pay to park closer will be more expensive and harder to get out after it's over.

Answer 4

I would suggest parking where a nearby neighbor is charging for parking or Cardinal Stadium and taking the shuttle. The best way to get out of the Derby is not wanting to leave as soon as the Derby is over. There are a couple of races after the Derby and you can stick around the track until the traffic eases up.