Since 2012, the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala has taken place at the Galt House Hotel, Louisville’s only hotel on the Ohio River and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. What began as a client-vendor arrangement has developed into a long-standing working relationship that has helped shape the Gala experience over the years.
The Galt House serves as both the event venue and the hospitality hub for the Gala weekend. The Grand Ballroom has hosted a decade of memorable evenings, while our VIP guests, celebrities, and performers have stayed onsite, enjoying the convenience and comfort of one of Kentucky’s largest hotels.
The Galt House Hotel, established in 1972 as part of Louisville’s Riverfront Urban Renewal Project, is the official hotel of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby, and the Kentucky Oaks. With 25 stories and more than 1,300 guest rooms, it offers a wide range of amenities including six restaurants, two ballrooms, over 130,000 square feet of meeting space, a spa, retail shops, and a three-story glass-enclosed Conservatory connecting the East and West Towers. The East Tower, added in 1984, includes suites with river views and extended-stay options.
The hotel’s name pays homage to two earlier historic Galt House hotels. The original opened in 1835 at Second and Main streets and was once considered Louisville’s finest. It welcomed notable guests such as Charles Dickens and served as a site for Union military meetings during the Civil War. After being destroyed by fire in 1865, a second Galt House opened in 1869 and remained a focal point of the city’s social life into the early 20th century.
In addition to being a valued venue and lodging partner, the Galt House has contributed to the Unbridled Charitable Foundation through sponsorship and donations to our silent auction. Their support has played a meaningful role in the growth and success of the Gala.
We recognize and appreciate the long history we have shared with the Galt House Hotel and thank them for their continued partnership.