Louisville, Kentucky (September 17-19, 2012)

We departed Indianapolis late since we had a bit over a two hour drive. Arriving at the Louisville Metro KOA we set up and did some quick grocery shopping. The rest of the afternoon was relaxing. We had only one place we wanted to visit in Louisville, Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby. I am sure there are many more places to explore here, but our schedule said only one day, so we choose the race track.

The next morning we drove but a short distance to the track and parked. It was an overcast and some what blustery morning, but we preferred that to a hot and sunny day. We signed up for the Behind the Scenes Walking Tour and were met by a tour group arriving from town in a Mint Julep Tours mini-bus.

Our tour guide, Ken, was a retired employee of Churchill Downs and his knowledge of the track was outstanding. He imparted many personal experiences and we all found him to be quite the character. He took us to many of the places where, normally, tourists are not allowed. The background history of each area was, at times, amazing. Our tour lasted close to an hour and when we were finished, we agreed we would never watch another Kentucky Derby the same again. Great tour.

From there we entered the museum and spent several hours carousing the exhibits. We thoroughly enjoyed this destination and departed the Downs with a greater understanding of "The Race". Now, back to the RV for some Mint Juleps.

Ken, our tour guide.

The famous twin spires.

The finish line where all want to cross first.

The "Garland of Roses".

Kentucky Derby Trophy, first jewel of the triple crown.

The Preakness Stakes Trophy , the second jewel of the triple crown.

The Belmont Stakes Trophy, the third and final jewel of the triple crown.

Winning Jockey's colors.

We stopped several places after leaving the Downs to partake in a Mint Julep, but to our surprise they did not serve them. One bartender said they served them only during the Derby week. Strange. A Mint Julep is nothing but Bourbon, sugar, water, and mint?????  Not that hard to make in the off season.  Oh well. We stopped at a grocery store and picked up some mint, went back to our RV, then made our own. Just as good and a lot less expensive.

A Berry Oaks Mint Julep.

Tomorrow we get back on the road and motor our way to St. Louis. We will be staying in an RV park across the river in Illinois so we can chalk up that state.