We are not particularly horse fans, nor do we follow the Triple Crown races, and my husband was somewhat reluctant to visit this museum, but I pretty much insisted, because the Kentucky Derby seems to be at the very core of Louisville (along with bourbon!!) .
The basic admission includes (on the half hour) a short tour of Churchill Downs, including an opportunity to see a couple of horses working out on the track, which was just perfect for us. Other more in depth tours are also available for those with that level of interest.
This was a great museum for all ages. The 360 view movie really showed the whole Kentucky Derby experience from all angles, pun totally included. Loved the hat museum section... enjoyed the exhibit where you read the odds for the horses, place your bets, and the watch the race. Great history on the race itself. Not sure what we paid for the tour, but totally worth it. (I think we got $1 off for AAA?)
We were there just days after the controversial 2019 Kentucky Derby race, and video of the race was playing in the museum lobby.
The statue and final resting place of Barbaro, the 2006 Kentucky Derby winner who injured his leg in the Preakness, is found in front of the museum, and it held a special interest for us, as our accountant's brother was Barbaro's trainer, and Barbaro was one of the small group of Kentucky Derby winning horses not born and bred in Kentucky.
Highly recommended for all ages!