TARC will provide service to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Oaks and Derby on regular routes that will follow detours away from the track starting at about 4:30 p.m. on both race days.
Routes providing the most direct access are: #2 – Second Street; #4 – Fourth Street; #6 – Sixth Street; and #29 – Eastern Parkway. Frequency of bus arrival times vary, from every 15 minutes on Route #4 on Friday to 90 minutes between buses on Route #2 on Saturday. Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and know their routes and schedules.
After the races, buses will pick people up at a different stop than where they were dropped off. Maps below show drop-off and pick-up points, and a separate listing of detours is provided. Non-Derby TARC riders also will be affected by detours near the track.
TARC no longer provides shuttle service from downtown, Papa John’s Stadium or the Fairgrounds due to changes in federal regulations regarding private charter service.
On Derby and Oaks days, TARC service will be available at the regularly scheduled times on all routes for the usual fare of $1.50. Route #2 provides service downtown and to and from Louisville International Airport. Route #4 covers parts of downtown, the University of Louisville, Old Louisville, and neighborhoods near Iroquois Park. Route #6 provides service in downtown, Iroquois Park neighborhoods and the area near Auburndale. Route #29 connects Shively, U of L, the Highlands and St. Matthews.
For the third straight year, TARC bus and trolley rides on Derby Eve starting at 6 p.m. will be free, thanks to the Miller Lite Free Rides™ program. The program is designed to reduce drunk driving during big events by providing a safe transportation option.
The First Friday Trolley Hop is also Friday night along Main and Market Streets until midnight, providing access to downtown establishments and the Miller Lite-sponsored Derby Eve Jam on the waterfront.
For more information about schedules and fares, visit www.ridetarc.org or call TARC’s Customer Service Department at 502-585-1234, TTY 502-213-3240. Miller Lite Free Rides program information is available at: www.MillerLiteFreeRides.com.
