Kentucky Derby Museum sets new attendance record with more than 266,000 visitors

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 12, 2026) — Kentucky Derby Museum welcomed 266,035 guests during fiscal year 2026, setting a new all-time attendance record and continuing a years-long growth trajectory for the nonprofit organization. The museum’s fiscal year ran October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.

The milestone reflects the museum’s continued efforts to reach new audiences through creative programming and personalized experiences. From customized group visits and interactive programming to expanded educational opportunities, the museum is finding new ways to connect people with the Kentucky Derby while strengthening Louisville’s sports and tourism economy.

“A record like this belongs to our entire team and to the people who live and breathe Derby every day,” said Patrick Armstrong, President and CEO of Kentucky Derby Museum. “As a nonprofit, every ticket purchased, every donation made, and every partnership formed helps us fulfill our mission to engage, educate, and excite the world about the Kentucky Derby. I’m incredibly proud of the way our team continues to find new ways to share that story, and deeply grateful to our Board, donors, partners, and community for giving us the support to keep growing.”

The achievement builds on years of growth following the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. In FY2019, Kentucky Derby Museum welcomed a then-record 242,841 guests, a benchmark it surpassed in FY2023 as tourism recovered. Now, with more than 266,000 visitors in FY2026, the museum has welcomed nearly 11,000 more guests than the previous year, setting the new all-time attendance record.

A key driver of the museum’s attendance growth is its ability to create new opportunities for people to experience Kentucky Derby culture. The museum's Group Sales Team saw increased interest from conventions, large groups, and organizations seeking customized, interactive Derby-themed experiences. The museum also expanded its educational reach through in-person field trips, community outreach, and the launch of its new Virtual Field Trip, connecting students and classrooms beyond Louisville with the history and traditions of Derby.

The museum’s record attendance also contributed to a pre-audit revenue increase of more than 2.5% during fiscal year 2026. That growth was further supported by increased retail sales at the Derby Museum Stores and guests choosing specialty tours beyond traditional general admission, demonstrating the value of offering a variety of ways to experience the Kentucky Derby throughout the year.

As a self-sustaining nonprofit, that financial growth strengthens the museum’s ability to reinvest in its mission. With support from donors and community partners, increased revenue helps fund new and updated exhibits, expanded programming, facility improvements, and the team needed to bring those experiences to life.

Kentucky Derby Museum began its new fiscal year October 1 with plans already underway for additional capital improvements and exhibit upgrades. Supported by the museum’s Board of Directors, that continued investment is aimed at building on the museum’s momentum while ensuring the nonprofit remains positioned to welcome and engage new generations of visitors.

While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city’s top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attractions, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.