152nd Kentucky Derby - Valentine

7 Days | April 27 - May 3, 2026


Departing from Valentine, NE!

Get swept up in the thrill and tradition of the Kentucky Derby on this unforgettable journey to Louisville. Savor breakfast at historic Churchill Downs before taking in the excitement of both Oaks Day and Derby Day—where fashion, racing, and Southern flair collide. Tour a bourbon distillery, meet retired racehorses at a local sanctuary, and step back in time with a scenic steamboat cruise. Enjoy a signature lunch at the iconic Brown Hotel, and for those wanting the full VIP treatment, optional upgraded seating with food and drink packages is available. It’s the ultimate Derby experience—hats encouraged!

 

 

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10 Meals

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15 - 45

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Louisville, KY

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Level 4 - Active

This tour is designed for travelers who enjoy full, energetic days. Expect plenty of walking, standing, and time on your feet, especially at large events like the Oaks and Derby. Comfortable shoes and a good dose of stamina will make these lively days even more enjoyable!


Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Travel Day

We are so excited to extend this bucket list tour to the Northern parts of our great state of Nebraska! This afternoon, board your motorcoach for an easy drive to Omaha. Paige May will be your guide as you make your way to Omaha, stopping in O’Neill to pick up a few more guests. Once to Omaha, check into your hotel before heading down to Aksarben for dinner and drinks with friends! We’ve taken care of all the planning so you can relax and enjoy a much needed vacation! (D)


Day 2 - Welcome Dinner

You're off to the most famous horse races in the world to celebrate 152 years! Spend today traveling to the “Home of the Kentucky Derby”, Louisville, KY. Tonight, enjoy a fabulous Welcome dinner in Evansville, getting to know the group and building anticipation for the days to come! Then, it’s time to rest up because tomorrow we meet the horses! (D)


Day 3 - Paddock tour, Derby Museum, Steamboat Race and Dinner

Start your day off with a short drive before an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the paddock at Churchill Downs. Then, take a tour of the Derby Museum. You'll have time to view the spectacular multimedia presentation that will only increase the anticipation for race day. Next, enjoy a historic and delicious lunch at the famed Browne Hotel! The extravagant meal is full of delicious Derby and Louisville favorites! This evening, you will race down the Ohio river on the Belle of Cincinnati during the Great American Steamboat Race. Dinner is included this year as well as a tasting of Four Roses Bourbon. It's all part of Derby week in Louisville and you'll be front and center for all the action. (B, L, D)


Day 4 - West Meadow Farms, Belle House Lunch, Bourbon Distillery

This morning is truly an unforgettable experience. Visit Westmeadow farms where you'll hear the story of raising thoroughbred horses, rescuing horses from terrible situations, and the healing power horses have on people. While at the farm you will get up close and personal with these magnificent animals! Then, lunch is at the beautiful Belle house, famous for down home Kentucky food. You'll also have time to shop at the local boutiques that surround the restaurant! this afternoon, head out of Shelbyville for a tasting of a Kentucky bourbon distillery! This incredible experience will explore the great history of this distilling process and of course you'll get to enjoy the spirits! It's a spectacular day you’ll never forget! (B, L)


Day 5 - Oaks Derby Race Day *Optional Kentucky Horse Park

The Oaks Derby, recently gathering almost as much excitement as the actual Derby, will be our first taste of racing in Louisville. Your tour price includes infield general admission tickets. It’s a great way to get used to Churchill downs and how the races work. Wear your hats and special pink themed outfits! Upgrade your seats today and tomorrow with the VIP package and have premium food and drinks included both days. Or you can spend the day at the Kentucky Horse Park. (B)


Day 6 - Kentucky Derby Race Day

The day has arrived! After a full breakfast we head back to Churchill Downs for the Granddaddy of horse racing, the Kentucky Derby! Known as the greatest 2 minutes in sports, this will be an overwhelmingly exciting day! Your tour price includes infield general admission tickets. Check out all of the great vendors and food available at the track. There is so much to do, including live music, shopping, photo ops, amazing food, all day horse racing and so much more! We will head to Evensville, IN after the races so we can get a head start on the drive back home on Sunday. (B)


Day 7 - Travel Home

Our final day together will be filled with memories and laughter from all the great experiences we had with our new friends. Be sure to swap information so you can join us on another great Excite Experience. (B)

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Hotel Accommodations:


Night 1 - Doubletree Hotel SW Omaha

Night 2 - Holiday Inn Evansville

Night 3, 4, 5 - Hampton Inn Clarksville

Night 6 - Holiday Inn Evansville

*Subject to change


What's Included:

Elevated Accommodations 

Delicious Original Meals 

Motorcoach Transportation 

Professional Tour Director

Home Made Chocolate Chip Cookie

Bottled Water


What's Not Included:

Gratuities

Insurance



Don’t let your dream tour wait.

We’ll take care of the details, you just come along for the ride.

Call us at 402-293-9282 for any questions that you may have!

 

 


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