610 Magnolia
“It’s very Louisville,” says Louisville resident Hollis Starks, “just an elegant, timeless setting with exposed brick, beams, twinkling lights, and incredible food. If I were to bring visitors in for the Derby, I would call 610 Magnolia.” 610 Magnolia, 502/636-0783, www.610magnolia.com.

Jack Fry’s
“This was originally a neighborhood bar, not fancy, and a lot of the horse community went there before the crowds discovered it,” says Louisville resident Ann Wells. “Now, there are a lot of great photos of past Derby winners. My great-aunt and great-uncle would go here after the track, and I love a story they used to tell me. My great-aunt met comedian Joe E. Brown at Jack Fry’s, and from the time she met him, he sent her a dozen roses every year around Derby time.” 1007 Bardstown Rd., 502/452-9244, www.jackfrys.com.

Le Relais
“One of our favorites,” says Louisville resident Cynthia Greene. “Their food and service is always dependable, they have an excellent wine selection, and the Grand Marnier soufflé is just fabulous.” 2817 Taylorsville Rd., 502/451-9020, www.lerelaisrestaurant.com.

Lilly’s Bistro
“Kathy Cary is devoted to Kentucky farmers, and she really celebrates what we have,” says Starks. “She uses a lot of local produce, and her food is wonderful.” 1147 Bardstown Rd., 502/451-0447, www.lillyslapeche.com.

Wagner’s Pharmacy
“Wagner’s is a drugstore across from the track where a lot of backside track people—owners, trainers, and a mix of the racing hierarchy—eat breakfast right after the sunrise workout,” says designer Susan Moloney. “It’s a great place to catch up with the latest track scoop on Thursday before the big Derby race.” 3113 South Fourth St., 502/375-3800.

21C Museum Hotel
“A fabulous boutique hotel with a sophisticated modern art collection,” says Starks. “And the location couldn’t be better for the Derby.” 700 West Main St., 502/217-6300, www.21cmuseumhotel.com.

The Brown Hotel
“Being an almost 80-year-old institution, the hotel just has so much Derby history, with stories about who has stayed there and what they did,” says Wells. “I remember coming to The Brown as a child. The original owner was a regular at the track. I recall seeing him there when I was young.” 35 West Broadway, 502/583-1234, www.brownhotel.com.

The Seelbach Hilton Louisville
“The rooms are decorated in old Kentucky fashion with four-poster beds,” says Greene. “It’s a homey atmosphere that’s perfect for out-of-towners.” 500 Fourth St., 502/585-3200, www.seelbachhilton.com.