Horses

THE HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Before the Europeans settled in central Kentucky, the region was home to grazing herds of buffalo. The Iroquois Indians called the area the “meadow land” which became the origin of our state's name "Kentucky."

In the 19th century central Kentucky's meadow lands reminded some immigrants of their home in the British Isles - so many settled here and brought their love of horses with them. Soon thoroughbred breeding, trading and racing became a primary enterprise in the Lexington area. In the first Kentucky Legislative Assembly a bill was introduced by Daniel Boone for "improving the breed of horses" and eventually Lexington gained the reputation of being the “Horse Capital of the World.”

Equine Exhibition Centers

The Thoroughbred Center

Built in 1969, the Thoroughbred Center is located just outside the city limits of Lexington, on prime central Kentucky farmland.

Old Friends

Old Friends is “a Kentucky facility for retired thoroughbreds,” a place where equine champions can live out their remaining days with dignity.

Keeneland

Founded on October 15, 1936, Keeneland is a one of a kind Thoroughbred racetrack and an auction company.

Kentucky Horse Park

The Commonwealth of Kentucky purchased this property in 1972 and opened the Kentucky Horse Park to the public in 1978.

HORSE FARM TOUR COMPANIES

Blue Grass Tours

Two tours daily at 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday, and 1:30 on Sunday, including a stop at a local horse farm, Keeneland Race Course, and other points of interest.

Horse Farm Tours, Inc.

Tours are given daily at 8:15 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. seven days a week year-round, includes a drive by Calumet, two or three farms, plus Keeneland.

Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours

Experience why Kentucky is world famous! These tours take you through the heart and soul of Kentucky's beautiful Bluegrass Horse Country.

Unique Horse Farm Tours                         

Departing from Kentucky Horse Park, usually three times a day, giving a behind-the-scenes stories about the people and horses.

PLACES TO RIDE HORSES

Deer Run Stable

Ride in the heart of Daniel Boone Country, just 10 minutes from Lexington.

Kentucky Horse Park                               

Explore the park's beautiful countryside on horseback. Horseback and pony rides are available April through October. 

Whispering Woods Riding Stables                        

The only local Horseback Riding Stables that offers over 250 acres of Riding trails.