7 Best Places to Watch the Kentucky Derby in Austin
Break out your sun hats, your seersucker suits and your most elegant Southern drawl to welcome the most anticipated horse race (and probably the only one) you’ll watch all year. The Kentucky Derby is spectacular both for the excellent horses it exhibits, but also the tradition and cheerful debauchery it encourages. However, you don’t want to watch this event just anywhere. Make the most of your fancy dress by spending Derby Day at one of these hot spots in Austin.
Derby in the City at Austin American Statesman
For the third year in a row, the local newspaper is hosting the biggest derby event in the city. The Derby in the City festival is held from 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on May 6, and pairs the races with live music and mint juleps. General admission tickets are $31.50 and VIP tickets are $100, which includes food, massages and more.
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CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
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A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
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Irene’s
Bistro, Restaurant, American
Every year, the Derby Party at Irene’s comes loaded with mint juleps, jugs of Derby Punch, country ham biscuits, hot browns and pie. Not like this is much different from the all-American fare they serve all year round, but something about sitting on that wraparound outdoor porch is just so perfect when it’s derby season. Just one warning: their drinks are infamously strong, so watch yourself.
Haymaker
Bar, Pub Grub
Haymaker is the sports bar on the east side of town. While there is always something going on, the Manor Road bar really gets into the Kentucky Derby spirit and hosts contests and activities to keep the kids occupied while the adults enjoy mint julep specials. If you arrive early enough you may even be able to take home a souvenir glass.
Kitty Cohen’s
Cocktail Bar, North American
Kitty Cohen’s is a perfect spot for a girls’ night out, with flamingo-adorned bathroom walls, a glittery bar and a pool to dip your feet into on the patio out back. This 70s-themed feminist bar offers sweet and sexy libations that are the perfect complement to a warm day, including a $45 punch bowl to share with friends – or not.
Josephine House
Charcuterie, Restaurant, Contemporary
Four Seasons
Hotel
Drink.Well.
Gastropub, North American
Drink.Well. is a neighborhood bar offering 75 types of whiskey, as well as unique cocktails, beers and a small menu with noteworthy bar bites including crispy ancho chickpeas and housemade Twinkies. They change up their menu seasonally but always offer a range of drinks to appease every liquor preference. In a city as hot and humid as Austin, it’s often necessary to quench your thirst. Why not do so with a craft cocktail from the North Loop–favorite? Or, sample its spicy kimchi Reuben with melted Swiss cheese, an electrifying Russian dressing and corned beef cooked to perfection; just make sure to follow it with a Lazy Dog (complete with bourbon, ginger syrup, fresh lemon juice and hopped grapefruit bitters) if you’re feeling the need to indulge.
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