"The Greatest Race"

Step into the heart-pounding thrill of Derby Day with The Greatest Race, the Kentucky Derby Museum’s signature 18-minute film experience. Shown exclusively in one of the world’s only 360° theaters, this immersive film surrounds you with the sights, sounds, and spirit of the Kentucky Derby® like never before.

Projected with state-of-the-art laser technology, The Greatest Race puts you at the center of the action—from the first thunder of hooves to the roar of the crowd. Emotional, exhilarating, and unforgettable, it’s a must-see Louisville experience that leaves audiences breathless.

In celebration of the Museum’s 40th anniversary, the film underwent a $2 million transformation in 2025, marking its most ambitious upgrade to date. The revamped experience features never-before-seen footage from the 2024 Kentucky Derby, exclusive interviews, and a show-stopping new lighting design. A fully reimagined surround sound score, atmospheric lighting, and dynamic visual effects elevate every moment.

From its beginnings in 1985 as a 360° slideshow to its groundbreaking 2015 evolution into a seamless immersive film, The Greatest Race has continued to push boundaries. This latest chapter redefines how the Derby is seen—and felt—delivering a powerful tribute to the speed, pageantry, and magic of the most legendary two minutes in sports.