In September of this year, Good News Travels is heading to Kentucky to take in all that is "Horse Country." Today we're sharing some interesting facts and tidbits about the attractions that we'll be exploring in the good ol' Bluegrass State!
Image Source: Practical Wanderlust
Churchill Downs
Image Source: Churchill Downs
1. Each year, over 120,000 mint juleps are consumed at Churchill Downs
Consisting primarily of bourbon, simple syrup, crushed ice, and mint leaf, Mint Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs even has Mint Julep doughnuts for the more exclusive spectators!
2. Attire is everything at Churchill Downs
Depending on where you're sitting, there is a certain dress code requirement for spectators. Perhaps the most iconic dress, though, was achieved with the introduction of fascinators, elegant and intricate hats.
3. The first Kentucky Derby was run in 1875.
The Kentucky Derby was modeled after a grass race called the Epsom Derby that has been an English tradition since 1870.
4. The Kentucky Derby is also called "The Run for the Roses"
Instead of a crown, the winner of the Derby is draped with a curtain of roses. The nickname was coined in 1925 by Bill Corum, a New York sports columnist.
The Belle of Louisville
Image Source: Belle of Louisville
5. The Belle wasn't built in Kentucky
The Belle of Louisville, where GNT guests will enjoy a dinner cruise, was actually built in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania for the West Memphis Packet Company. It was put into service in 1914 on the Allegheny River.
6. The Belle has gone through a few names
The boat was originally named "Idlewild". This name lasted until 1947 when it was renamed "Avalon." The name we know now, the "Belle of Louisville", was decided in 1962.
Louisville Slugger Bat Museum
Image Source: Yelp
7. Outside the museum is a 120-foot bat
The "Big Bat" is an exact-scale replica of Babe Ruth's 34-inch Louisville Slugger bat. It stands outside the museum, providing a truly impressive entrance.
8. You can hold a piece of history at the museum
It seems hard to believe, but you can actually hold a bat used by your favorite major league team! They are genuine artifacts, having been used by some of the greatest baseball players of all time.
Check out the full itinerary here. Contact GNT with any questions you might have!
