Lexington Itinerary
Lexington, Kentucky, is famously known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” renowned for its horse farms, equestrian events, and rich horse racing history.
Here’s a simple itinerary focusing on activities related to horses:
Morning
Kentucky Horse Park. Start your day by visiting the Kentucky Horse Park located at 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511. Explore the park’s museums, exhibits, and demonstrations showcasing various horse breeds, equestrian sports, and the history of horse racing in Kentucky. Don’t miss the Hall of Champions to meet retired racehorses and other equine celebrities.
Mid-Morning
Thoroughbred Farm Tour. Take a guided tour of a local Thoroughbred horse farm to get an up-close look at the breeding, training, and care of these magnificent animals. Several farms in the Lexington area offer guided tours, including Claiborne Farm, Darley at Jonabell Farm, and WinStar Farm. Advance reservations are usually required, so be sure to plan ahead. If you want, check out visithorsecountry.com for assistance in making a horse farm tour reservation.
Lunch
Local Equestrian-themed Restaurant. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with an equestrian theme or ambiance, where you can savor delicious cuisine while surrounded by horse-themed decor. One option is Wallace Station located at 3854 Old Frankfort Pike, Versailles, KY 40383, known for its horse-themed atmosphere and gourmet sandwiches.
Afternoon
Keeneland Race Course. Depending on the time of the year, spend your afternoon at Keeneland Race Course located at 4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY 40510. Even if there are no races scheduled during your visit, you can still tour the historic race track, explore the grounds, and visit the Keeneland Library, which houses a vast collection of horse racing memorabilia and documents.
Evening
Downtown Lexington. End your day by exploring downtown Lexington, where you can dine at a restaurant featuring locally sourced cuisine and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Look for establishments that pay homage to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, another iconic aspect of the region’s culture.
Optional Add-on (if time permits)
Evening Horseback Riding. If you’re an experienced rider or wish to try horseback riding, consider booking an evening trail ride at a local stable. Several equestrian centers in the Lexington area offer guided trail rides through picturesque countryside trails, providing a memorable way to experience Kentucky’s natural beauty on horseback. Learn more about these opportunities at visitlex.com.
Visit Lexington Tourism