It might seem a little strange to plan an entire trip around an event that lasts all of a few minutes. But as anyone who’s been to the Kentucky Derby will tell you, the race itself is only one small part of the whole event. The city of Louisville knows how to milk its 15 minutes of fame, so in the days leading up to (and right after) the race there are parties, exhibits, and special events that – depending on who you talk to – can be as much fun (if not more) than the actual race.

Let’s assume you’ve found some great Kentucky Derby travel deals, or you just found a cheap flight to Louisville and you’re wondering what else you can do to fill your time before and after the two-minute race. Don’t worry, Louisville will keep you entertained.

For starters, the city hosts the Kentucky Derby Festival for two weeks before the race itself, and that alone includes events like marathons, concerts, games, hot air balloons, and even things like a steamboat race. There’s a parade at the end of the festival, one day before the Derby.

If you’re a real horse racing aficionado, you’ll want to include the Kentucky Derby Museum on your to-do list no matter when you’re in Louisville – but especially if you’re in the city for the race. It’s actually at Churchill Downs, and hosts regular as well as special exhibits throughout the year.

On race day, getting to the grounds early is recommended not just because of the lines but also because the people-watching is fantastic. You may not be among the finely-dressed folks in the stands, but that just means you get to be a spectator of their processions, too.

Remember that the Kentucky Derby is a major event on the sports calendar, so even if it’s barely a blip on your radar you’d be smart to book well in advance for a trip. Flights may be easy to come by, but the best deals on Louisville hotels are snapped up long before the Kentucky Derby Festival gets underway.