This is probably the nicest Holiday Inn I have ever visited. The hotel is located 11 miles from downtown Louisville, about a 15-20 minute drive from the Louisville airport and most of the Louisville area attractions.
Inside, the rooms were the standard hotel room with bed, desk, dresser, and wing back chair, but clean and comfortable. The cable could have used a few more channels, however.
The hotel was abuzz with derby guests and had several special activities planned. In the evenings, the lobby had a piano player and there were free refreshments, such as lemonade and finger foods. The hotel bar ("The Winner's Circle") was a lively place with reasonably priced drinks, but the appetizers were only so-so.
There were plenty of dining options nearby. Across the parking lot was a TGI Friday's, which was thankfully open late. In the other direction was a Perkin's Café. There was also a small takeout Chinese restaurant and a burger joint in the immediate vicinity.
Although, I didn't have time to use the hotel pool or gym, there was what seemed to be a nice indoor pool and indoor fitness facility.
Overall, this is a nice hotel, especially for the price and is a good option for the derby weekend when the Marriott can be over $400.
The price above is for normal times. Expect to pay two to three times more for the derby weekend.