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Chicagoans like horse racing and they have since the 1800s. This love of the sport makes Chicago a great place to be on Derby Day. There will be watch parties everywhere in the Windy City. Here are some that sound like a lot of fun.
Godfrey Kentucky Derby Viewing Event 2025
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago’s Godfrey Rooftop Lounge is holding its 11th annual Kentucky Derby Viewing Event on May 3, 2025. The doors will open at 2 pm.
Party highlights include
- Bourbon Tasting Classes – There will be testing classes every half hour from 1 pm to 4 pm – first come, first served
- Maker’s Mark Wax Dipping Station – Take home a rocks glass dipped in Maker’s Mark signature red wax, just like their iconic bottle.
Dress for success because there will be prizes for Best Dressed, Best Hat and Best Couple If you need inspiration, you can find some inspiration here.
Their menu will include delicious bites that will transport you to Kentucky. You can capture the magic of the day in their Derby themed photobooth.
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago is a striking luxury boutique lifestyle hotel. Its spacious rooms and suites are relaxing retreats from the hustle and bustle of Chicago.
If you would like to visit the Godfrey Hotel Chicago, book your stay here and you can serve 14% off the regular rate.
ROOF on theWit Derby Mania
ROOF on theWit is having a Kentucky Derby Watch Party on May 3. 2025, from 11 am to 7 pm. Watch the “Run for the Races” 27 stories above the street. Indulge in themed cocktails, giveaways, DJs, live entertainment and bottle service. This is a 21+ event.
Formal attire is welcome for Derby Mania. There will be a Best Dressed Competition with prizes.
theWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel
theWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel is in the theater district, just around the corner from Riverwalk. The hotel offers a spa, restaurant and an award winning rooftop lounge with spectacular views.
If you’d like to visit theWit Chicago, you can find special offers to help you save money on your stay.
Derby Day Watch Party at Vol. 39
The Kimpton Gray Hotel’s Vol. 39 is having a Derby Day Watch Party on May 3, 2025, from 3 pm to 7 pm. Enjoy an afternoon of Kentucky Derby tradition and watch the ‘most exciting two minutes in sports.” You can indulge in great cocktails, including Mint Juleps, Sazerac Rye Old Fashions, Whiskey Smashes and French 75s at the champagne bar. You can also savor gourmet Chef-selected bites.
Tap your foot to the music from a live bluegrass band. Dress up in your racing finest fashion and enter the Best Dressed and Best Capture Contests. Get Instagram-worthy photos in their vintage photo booth.
Kimpton Gray Hotel
Kimpton Gray Hotel is set in a historic building and is considered one of Chicago’s finest landmarks. It is modern, smart, sophisticated, and stylish.
- Named “One of the 31 Best Hotels in Chicago, 2024” – Conde Nast Traveler
- #2 Best Hotel in the Loop, Chicago, 2024” – U.S. News & World Report
If you’d like to visit the Kimpton Gray Hotel, you can find special offers to help you save money on your stay.
The 70th Annual Derby Day Party
The 70th Annual Derby Day Party will be held by Bridgepoint at the Chicago Marriott Southwest at Burr Ridge on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Come join them and watch the Kentucky Derby live on the big screen. Then you can enjoy cocktails and dinner as you hear about all the great work the non-profit Bridgepoint is doing.
If you feel lucky, you might enjoy the raffle they will have going. There will be silent and live auctions, Former Chicago Chicago news anchor Rob Johnson will be the emcee. And a great DJ will be there so you can dance the night away.
Chicago Marriott Southwest at Burr Ridge
Chicago Marriott Southwest at Burr Ridge will elevate your travel experience. Enjoy sophisticated accommodations and thoughtful amenities. Stay active in the fitness center and in the indoor pool.
If you’d like to visit Marriott at Burr Ridge, book your stay here and you can save 14% off the regular rate.