Explore Lexington

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.

(859) 293-1853

Old Friends

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

(502) 863-1775

Keeneland

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

(859) 254-3412

Kentucky Horse Park

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

(859) 233-4303

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.

(859) 233-2152

Horse Farm Tours, Inc.

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

(859) 268-2906

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.

(859) 260-8687

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.

(859) 213-6653

Places to Ride Horses

Deer Run Stable

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

(615) 268-9960

Kentucky Horse Park

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

(859) 233-4303

Whispering Woods Riding Stables

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

(502) 570–9663

More Things to Do

Bourbon

Breweries

Vineyards

Historic Places

Nightlife & The Arts

Dining

Experience the Horse Capital of the World

Stay at Chez Lyndon Manor and explore all that Lexington has to offer.