The first time I visited Gulfstream Park I was struck how seamlessly the surrounding restaurants and shops highlighted the paddock at the racetrack. I remember a young girl having lunch with her parents exclaiming, “Look mom, horses!”

One of the preeminent prep races on the road to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve will be held at Gulfstream Park, which hosts the Grade 1, $1 million Curlin Florida Derby Presented by Hill 'n' Dale at Xalapa.