Lexington - Kentucky Horse Park

The world-famous Kentucky Horse Park lies 10 mi. north of Lexington (I 75, exit 120). Here, in Bluegrass country, everything centers on the horse. There is a Visitor Center that shows films on the park and supplies information on particular activities and events. The International Museum of the Horse, with the Calumet Trophy Collection, and the American Saddle Horse Museum give a comprehensive view of the history and importance of the horse, while great race horses are honored in the Hall of Champions.

There is an interesting walk through the park (the Walking Farm Tour) that includes demonstrations of the crafts of blacksmiths, wagoners, harness makers, and a parade of thoroughbreds (Parade of Breeds Show). Visitors can also enjoy horse trekking and rides in horse-drawn carriages. The Kentucky Horse Center is a training center for thoroughbreds.

There are race meetings for thoroughbred horses several times annually at the Keeneland Racecourse (4201 Versailles Rd.) and Red Mile Harness Track (South Broadway and Red Mile Rd.).

There are several hundred privately owned stud farms of varying size and importance within a radius of some 30 mi. of Lexington. The most famous are Calumet, Manchester Farm, Whitney, Normandy, Spendthrift and Three Chimneys Farm. Only the last two are open to visitors.