Horse racing is a time-honored tradition in Hot Springs, but spring brings the most thrilling race days of the year! The 2027 Arkansas Derby will run on Saturday, April 10, serving as the final 100-point qualifying prep on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. With a massive $1.5 million purse on the line, the stakes couldn't be higher as the country’s top thoroughbreds make their final, dramatic push for a spot in the starting gate at Churchill Downs. If you want to be part of the action at Oaklawn Park, here are our top insider tips to plan your perfect race weekend:
1. Arrive Early to the Track
Post time for the first race on Derby Day is typically around 11:20 a.m., with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. If you choose to sit in the large indoor grandstands, you'll want to get there early to snag a good seat—though most people tend to move around and explore throughout the afternoon.
Because the Arkansas Derby is the jewel of the spring meet, it is scheduled as the next-to-last race of the day, typically running around 6:45 p.m. Our best insider tip is to pace yourself and plan to stay all day! Oaklawn makes it incredibly easy to stretch your legs, enjoy the gorgeous spring weather, and soak in the electric atmosphere from the first post all the way to the main event.
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Seating: General admission is free! Reserved grandstand seating can be purchased online in advance, and box seating may be available at the gates on race day.
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Parking & Extras: Parking in Oaklawn's official lots is usually around $10, though private lots surrounding the track will charge a bit more. Don't forget to grab an official racing program at the main entrance for $2 so you can follow along with the horses and jockeys.
2. What to Bring (and Wear!)
It's Derby Day, which means it’s time to break out your fanciest, most colorful hats! While dressing up isn't strictly required, it adds a lot of fun to the atmosphere and makes for world-class people-watching.
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Footwear: You will likely do plenty of walking across pavement and grass, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
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Infield Gear: Weather permitting, the famous Oaklawn infield will be open. Visitors are invited to bring along lawn chairs, blankets, and plenty of sunscreen to enjoy the sunshine.
3. Enjoy the Infield Party
As one of the premiere thoroughbred racetracks in the country, Oaklawn has been hosting historic racing since 1904. Did you know that legends like American Pharoah and Smarty Jones won right here on this track? Before you head out, check out our favorite fun facts and historic milestones of the Arkansas Derby.
"There is nowhere in America more beautiful for great racing than Arkansas in the spring," says Oaklawn President Louis Cella. By mid-April, the historic track is beautifully landscaped with blooming azaleas, and the infield transforms into a lively, park-like festival. You can expect a craft beer garden, local food trucks, live music, and even an official Derby hat contest.
Stay and Relax at Tiffany's Bed and Breakfast
The live racing season at Oaklawn spans from November 27, 2026, through May 1, 2027. While the meet runs throughout the winter and spring, the weekly schedule varies - typically featuring three-day or four-day race weeks with thoroughbred action from Thursday or Friday through most Sundays.
No matter which weekend you choose to visit the track, our peaceful country retreat is the perfect home base. As your hosts, we always keep up with the latest daily track schedules and post times, and we love helping our guests map out their perfect race-day itinerary before they head into town!
After a thrilling, fast-paced day at the track, you can escape the traffic and crowds to relax on our 60 acres of quiet woodlands. Best of all, every single morning of your stay starts with a fresh, home-cooked breakfast at Tiffany's!
Ready to experience the thrill of the track? Our rooms fill up fast for the spring meet, so look at our 36 hours in Hot Springs itinerary for more trip ideas, and book your stay direct with Tiffany's B&B today!