Marriott ramps up Louisville marketing ahead of Kentucky Derby

As horse racing fans prepare to make the pilgrimage to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby, local hotels are working to make their rooms the most popular place to stay. Louisville Marriott Downtown recently announced that it would be offering a special package for the event, which includes cocktail hours, live entertainment and other perks.

"The Kentucky Derby is one of the most iconic American sporting events," said Paul Kiley, director of sales and marketing at Louisville Marriott Downtown. "Louisville Marriott Downtown is offering guests a taste of an authentic Kentucky Derby experience with this special package, equipped with the finest that Louisville has to offer."

Sporting events across the Midwest are providing local businesses with ample marketing opportunities. Companies are increasing their Indianapolis marketing ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl game, which will draw hundreds of thousands of fans to the city. Some have even started advertising their upcoming ads, USA Today reports.

Brands such as Volkswagen, Kia and Coca-Cola have been working to drum up excitement for their impending Big Game marketing campaigns and get the most out of the 30-second slots, which go for $3.5 million a pop, the newspaper reports.