Derby Day is just around the bend on Saturday, May 3. If you can’t make it to Churchill Downs, no worries—there are plenty of places to sip mint juleps and take in race day right here in Chicago!
From rooftop bashes to a derby dog fashion contest, here’s your guide to all the best Kentucky Derby events in Chicago!
Derby Day Party and Doggy Derby Contest at Cody’s Public House
Cody’s is throwing the ultimate Derby Day bash on May 3, open to Chicagoans and their canine companions!
Starting at 2 p.m., guests are welcomed to Cody’s beer garden for a Doggy Derby Best-Dressed Contest.
Bring your furry friend along in their finest pup attire and enter the running for prizes like a $100 gift card, Old Fashioned kit, and more!
Guests will also enjoy a bourbon sampling courtesy of Bulleit, as well as giveaways and drink deals. Discounts include $5 Blue Moon, $6 Bulleit and Bulleit Rye shots, $10 Bulleit or Blade and Bow Mint Juleps, and a $10 Triple Crown cocktail menu.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 2 p.m.
Where📍: Cody’s Public House | 1658 W. Barry Ave.
Derby Day Viewing Party at The Graystone Tavern
The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville is celebrating Derby Day with a fun-filled viewing party you won’t want to miss!
Guests will enjoy themed food and drink specials like $10 Kentucky Fried Chicken Wing Basket, $5 Tequila Rose shots, $10 Bulleit Mint Juleps and $10 Kentucky Mules.
Additionally, revelers will have the chance to win 50% off their tab by placing bets on the winning horse.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 2 p.m.
Where📍: 3441 N Sheffield Ave.
Kentucky Derby Specials at The Grillroom Chophouse & Wine Bar
The Grillroom Chophouse & Wine Bar is celebrating Derby Day in style, with a curated list of cocktails and bites from Thursday, May 1 through Saturday, May 3.
Guests can sip on drink specials like a Peach Bourbon Sour or a classic Mint Julep, paired with delicious appetizer options like BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders, Deviled Eggs & Caviar, and Pimento Dip.
When ⏰: Thursday, May 1 – Saturday, May 3.
Where📍: 33 W Monroe St.
Derby Day at The Hampton Social
Don your best hat and head to the Hampton Social on Saturday, May 3, for the finest Derby Day celebration around.
From 2–7 p.m. guests will enjoy half off H Rosé and a mint julep special for just $13.
Be sure to dress your best—the best look will take home a $100 gift card!
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 2-7 p.m.
Where📍: Hampton Social | River North – 353 W Hubbard St. | Streeterville – 164 E Grand Ave.
Tickets 🎟️: Here
Kentucky Derby Watch Party at Blue Bayou
Blue Bayou in Lakeview is the place to be this Derby Day for drink deals, prizes, and good times galore!
General admission tickets include a complimentary High Noon, access to exclusive giveaways, and entry in a Best Dressed contest.
Dress to the nines for a chance to win a 3-night stay at Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 3-6 p.m.
Where📍: Blue Bayou | 3734 North Southport Ave.
Tickets 🎟️: Here
Kentucky Derby Viewing Event at I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge
Race day 2025 at I|O Godfrey is going to be one for the books!
Head to the hotel’s rooftop lounge on May 3 for a stylish viewing celebration complete with bourbon tasting classes, derby-themed bites, and a Best Dressed competition!
The high-energy event will also feature a special glass wax dipping station courtesy of Maker’s Mark. Guests will have the opportunity to take home a one-of-a-kind rocks glass dipped in Maker’s Mark’s famous red wax.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 12-8 p.m.
Where📍: I|O Godfrey Rooftop Lounge | 127 West Huron St.
Tickets 🎟️: Here
Kentucky Derby Watch Party at Happy Camper Rooftop Wrigleyville
Grab your friends and dress to impress for Happy Camper’s rooftop Derby Day party in Wrigleyville on May 3!
Free white claws, mint juleps, giveaways, and fun times are in store for all.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 3-6 p.m.
Where📍: Happy Camper Wrigleyville | 3458 North Clark St.
Tickets 🎟️: Here
Annual Kentucky Derby Party at The Pony Inn
What better place to watch the horses race than The Pony Inn in Lakeview?
The inn’s annual Kentucky Derby Party is going down on May 3, featuring a live band, best dressed contest, southern fried chicken and mint julep specials, and more.
Tickets include an unlimited selection of cocktails, beer, and bites.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 2-6 p.m.
Where📍: The Pony Inn | 1638 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets 🎟️: Here
Kentucky Derby Party at Reclaimed Bar & Restaurant
Reclaimed Bar & Restaurant is the perfect spot to take in the action this derby day in Chicago.
Dress your best and join Reclaimed for a full day of fun complete with race betting, live music, bourbon tasting, and an old fashioned shrimp boil.
When ⏰: Saturday, May 3 | 3:30 p.m.
Where📍: Reclaimed Bar & Restaurant | 3655 North Western Ave.
Tickets 🎟️: Here