Kentucky Derby Museum breaks attendance record again, earns top ranking on USA Today’s 10Best list
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (October 9, 2024) – Kentucky Derby Museum is celebrating a record-breaking year, surpassing all previous attendance milestones and earning national recognition as the #3 Best Attraction for Sports Fans in USA Today’s 2024 Readers' Choice Awards.
The museum welcomed an all-time high of 258,382 guests during the fiscal year 2024, which spanned from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024. This marked a 2.7% increase over the previous year’s record-setting numbers, solidifying the Kentucky Derby Museum's status as one of the top cultural and sports destinations. The nonprofit museum’s continued growth has been driven by investments in new exhibits, immersive programming, and must-attend events.
“We’re incredibly honored and proud of this milestone," said Patrick Armstrong, President and CEO of Kentucky Derby Museum. "This record wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing guests, the strategic vision of our Board members, the dedication of our KDM Team, and the shared passion for the Kentucky Derby. Our visitors responded enthusiastically to the unique exhibits and experiences we offer, and we’re excited to build on this momentum as we approach our 40th anniversary in 2025.”
The museum’s success is part of a larger trend of recovery and growth in Louisville's tourism sector. According to Louisville Business First’s most recent “Louisville area Tourist Attractions" list, Kentucky Derby Museum is the second most-visited museum in the city.
In addition to the attendance milestone, the museum's inclusion in the USA Today 10Best 2024 Readers' Choice Awards further solidifies its reputation. Ranking #3 among Best Attractions for Sports Fans nationwide after a month of online voting, the Derby Museum proudly shares this honor with other iconic institutions, including Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.
"We join the Kentucky Derby Museum in celebrating the back-to-back fiscal year attendance records as they welcomed more than 258,000 guest visits over the past year. This accomplishment not only showcases the museum's popular draw but also emphasizes its vital role in bolstering our local economy. The museum has significantly benefited our hospitality industry and has further cemented Louisville's status as a top cultural and sporting destination,” said Cleo Battle, President and CEO of Louisville Tourism. “We are proud to have two Louisville museums within the top five spots on USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice list of the Best Attractions for Sports Fans.”
Voted onto the list for the second year in a row, and moving up from #5 in 2023, the Derby Museum's new ranking is a humbling reminder of the incredible support and votes from the Louisville community and fans across the country.
“Congratulations to the Kentucky Derby Museum and Louisville Slugger Museum on making USA Today’s 10Best list of top attractions for sports fans in America!” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Your commitment to providing engaging and unforgettable experiences draws visitors from around the world and elevates Louisville’s reputation as one of America’s great sports cities.”
For more information on USA Today’s 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, you can view the full list of Best Attractions for Sports Fans here: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-attraction-for-sports-fans-2024/
Kentucky Derby Museum's executive leadership would like to thank the entire KDM Team, along with the museum's Board of Directors, members, volunteers, sponsors, and partners for their continued support and dedication.
The Derby Museum is gearing up for another year with a packed lineup of special events, including the second annual Derby in December -- a free community Derby party -- on December 3, 2024. To stay updated on the latest announcements ahead of the museum's 40th anniversary, visit derbymuseum.org and follow @derbymuseum on social media.