Let’s ride: The ultimate guide to where to watch the Kentucky Derby in Chicago

The Kentucky Derby race | Photo by Wikimedia Commons

The month of May will kick off with a festive start as the 151st annual Kentucky Derby takes place this weekend, and with Cinco De Mayo right around the corner. With the renowned Louisville horse race on Saturday, May 3, restaurants and bars all over Chicago are putting on epic parties to celebrate. Whether you’re a diehard Derby fan or just looking to horse around, here are the best places around the city to hit up this weekend. 

Race Day Watch Party at Bub City

Don’t miss this Race Day Watch Party at Bub City that includes Woodford Reserve to enjoy Mint Juleps for $10. View all the action of the Kentucky Derby live, plus take home an exclusive copper Woodford glass as a keepsake. 

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Location: Downtown Chicago and Rosemont

The Annual Kentucky Derby Viewing Party at I|O Godfrey

Dress to the nines for this upscale watch party at I|O Godfrey that includes contests for Best Dressed, Best Hat, and Best Couple. Reserve tickets to partake in one of their bourbon-tasting classes, eat from a special Derby Day menu, and take pictures in the photo booth, all while watching the big race. 

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 12-8 p.m.

Location: 127 West Huron St., Chicago IL 60654 

Bourbon and Brims Race Watch Party at Salon 61

Salon 61 in River North will host its Bourbon and Brims Race Watch Party in collaboration with Fanatics. Wear your finest Derby hat and outfit to enter the Best Dressed Competition. Guests will have access to Mint Juleps, Spritzes, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a live DJ. Tickets are $99 per person and include a three-hour signature bar package, activations by Four Roses and Spritz del Conti, and of course, a live viewing of the race. This event is only for ages 21 and older.

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Location: 61 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60654

Derby Day Specials at Shaw’s Crab House

The Oyster Bar inside Shaw’s Crab House will offer guests Mint Juleps and other food and drink specials while watching the race live. 

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Location: 21 E. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60611

cinco de mayo and derby day

Don your best hats and grab a White Claw at a Green Curtain Events Derby Watch Party. | Courtesy of @gceventschi

Kentucky Derby Watch Parties across Chicago Presented by Green Curtain Events 

Watch the race in style and choose from premium packages for your group before tickets sell out at one of four locations. Admission includes a complimentary White Claw Hard Seltzer and giveaways.

Date: Saturday, May 3

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Locations: Utopian Tailgate (Old Town), Joy District Rooftop (River North), Happy Camper Rooftop (Wrigleyville), and The J. Parker (Lincoln Park)

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