Kentucky is one of the places in the United States known for its connection to the horse industry, so it makes sense that there are lots of great activities for horse lovers that visit the state! Check out this list of (horsey) things to do during your visit to Lexington, KY.
Kentucky Horse Park
First and foremost, Lexington is home to the Kentucky Horse Park! Not only does this facility host some of the best equestrian events in the country, it is also home to museums, memorials, and art galleries dedicated to (what else?) horses! There are also daily demonstrations, carriage rides, and lots of opportunities to get up close and personal with the resident equines. Especially exciting for me…one of the museums, the Al-Marah Arabian Galleries, is an incredible interactive exhibit dedicated completely to the history and continued influence of the Arabian horse. There is so much to see at this stop, so plan on spending all day exploring the park!
Farm Tours
You can’t help but notice all the beautiful horse farms surrounding Lexington. Board fences, lush green pastures, mares and foals grazing serenely…. Several companies offer farm tours that allow you an even closer view of some of the most iconic and influential farms in the region. You can join a group tour that often includes a visit to Keeneland…or you can arrange a private tour tailored to your particular interests.
Retirement Facilities
Several retirement facilities in the area provide gentle, loving care to the older horses that can no longer race, show, or breed. Some of these retirement homes, such as Old Friends, offer tours where you can view the horses and hear the stories of these incredible athletes…all while supporting a great cause!
Keeneland Racetrack
Even if Keeneland isn’t hosting live races during your visit, you can still check out this famous racetrack. Both guided and self-guided tours are available where you can discover the history of the track, watch horses during their workouts, and even view the famous sales ring where many horses start their careers.
Veterinary Facilities
Some of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the United States are located in Lexington, KY. Both Rood and Riddle and Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offer tours that take you behind the scenes of their state of the art horse hospitals.
The Thoroughbred Center
Want to know what the day to day life of a race horse is like? The Thoroughbred Center offers tours that show you exactly what is involved in training and preparing a race horse for its career.
Thoroughbred Park
Despite its name, Thoroughbred Park isn’t home to any real horses…but this city greenspace does house an incredible sculpture of racehorses running down the home stretch that makes a great Instagram shot!
Horse Themed Escape Room
Have family members that are a little less horse obsessed, but still want to keep with an equine theme? A local Lexington escape room, Breakout, offers a horse racing themed challenge that’s fun for everyone!
