When you head to horse country in Kentucky, there’s one place you absolutely can’t miss: Kentucky Horse Park. Nestled in Lexington, this park delivers an equine experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Owned and operated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it offers an immersive adventure where you can connect with incredible horses while discovering why Kentucky proudly holds the title of the Horse Capital of the World. Here’s what I found on my journey to Kentucky Horse Park.
Kentucky Horse Park
When planning our trip to Kentucky, one of my priorities was to include immersive activities. Kentucky is famous for horses, particularly horse racing. Thus, to immerse ourselves in Kentucky’s equine heritage, we began our time with a visit to Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Owned and operated by the Commonwealth, Kentucky Horse Park has a mission, according to its website to, “celebrate the history of our relationship with the horse through education, exhibition, engagement, and competition.”
What most appealed to me when planning our itinerary is that the park offers the perfect opportunity to not only learn about these amazing creatures but to also meet and interact with many of them. And while you don’t necessarily have to begin a visit to horse country here, Kentucky Horse Park does make a great first stop and introduction to this part of the country.
Where is Kentucky Horse Park?
Kentucky Horse Park is situated off of Iron Works Pike in Lexington, about a mile and a half east of I-75 at Exit 120. Tucked in amongst the rolling green hills, the park has a beautiful scenic setting.
There is plenty of parking available outside the Visitor Center, where your adventure will begin. While most of the park and exhibits are outdoors, there are also several indoor facilities to explore.
The Visitor Information Center has a gift shop, movie theater, restrooms, and it is here you will purchase your admission and pickup a show schedule and a map of the park . In addition, there is the International Museum of the Horse, and the American Saddlebred Museum and Gift Shop.
The Daily Schedule
Each day during the Main Season, which runs from May 1st to November 3rd, the schedule is packed with excellent opportunities to experience first-hand the amazing beauty and spirit of these animals. From the Hall of Champions Show to the Parade of Breeds to the Horse-Drawn Trolley, these daily events are favorites with guests of all ages.
What I especially appreciated was the many chances we had to interact with these horses all while learning their unique stories. Meeting retired champions was a thrill for me and I learned so much about the horses that I didn’t know prior to visiting. For example, a trotter has a diagonal gate, a pacer moves both left feet and both right feet at the same time, and that the horses inherit their gate from their parents. Which one is faster? A pacer is always faster than a trotter. Pretty fascinating!
The great Man o’ War, the most famous Thoroughbred race horse of the 20th century, is buried at the park in a memorial with a statue dedicated to his life. Buried with him are some of his offspring, including Triple Crown winner War Admiral, who was upset by Seabiscuit in their famous match race in 1938.
Touring the Grounds
The park is laid out well and relatively simple to navigate. I recommend taking your time to stroll the grounds and drink in the setting. There are many sculptures dotting the landscape from artists around the world. You can get an Equine Sculpture Walk guide at the Visitor Center or at the International Museum of the Horse.
The Horse-Drawn Trolley is also a great way to tour the park. Sit back and enjoy the clip clop of the horse’s hooves as your guide regales you with the history and equine facts along the way. Make sure and check the schedule so that you won’t miss out on this favorite activity.
Horseback Trail Rides & Pony Rides
For a little extra fun and another chance to meet the horses, you can add horseback riding to your itinerary. Tickets are sold first-come, first-serve on the day of your visit for $30 per ride. Saddle up and enjoy a guided 35-minute trail ride that is suitable for first-time riders.
For younger riders, ages 2-10, pony ride tickets can be purchased day of visit as well. Tiny riders can enjoy a guided ride around the paddock and the thrill of meeting one of the pleasant ponies at Kentucky Horse Park.
Where to stay when visiting
When visiting Kentucky Horse Park, you’ll find a variety of lodging options to choose from. Whether you prefer charming B&Bs, inns, chain hotels, or vacation rentals like Airbnb, there’s something for everyone. However, should you wish to make the Kentucky Horse Park your hub for this adventure, there is a campground.
Kentucky Horse Park features a 260-site campground! The campground’s theme is “Let the good times roll,” and they do here. The campground is a veritable mini-village welcoming guests from around the world.
In addition to the standard features like electric hook-ups, water, two bath houses, picnic tables, fire rings, and the like, there is also a junior Olympic sized pool and a combination gift shop/grocery store. All of the modern conveniences for a comfy stay are just a half-mile drive away from the Kentucky Horse Park’s main entrance.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Kentucky Horse Park
Kentucky Horse Park is the kind of place you will want to plan to spend a little time. I suggest allowing yourself at least three to five hours. The park is opened Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and they offer a variety of ticket prices.
There is food available at the park in the gift shop as well as at the Iron Works Café, next to the Visitor Center, and at the Nicholson Café near the competition barns and show ring.
For the youngsters in your group there is a number of kid-oriented exhibits including the interactive Kids Barn where children can learn through play about horses, how to care for them, and more.
Depending on the time of year, you may encounter school groups visiting on field trips. This is a popular destination for groups. You will want to contact the park directly to make plans for your group visit. Moreover, they also offer numerous events throughout the year and you can even host your birthday party at Kentucky Horse Park.
Parting Thoughts
If I could only do one horse-related thing while visiting Kentucky, this is it. I love that we learned so much about Kentucky’s horse heritage in one scenic location.
It was a thrill seeing displays dedicated to honoring some of horse racing’s biggest legends. What’s more, I was blown away to learn that the equine industry in Kentucky generates more than 6.5 billion dollars of economic activity and employs more than 60,000 people.*
More importantly, we got to meet the beautiful animals. I came away with a greater understanding and an appreciation for the significance of these horses, all while enjoying an entertaining venue designed to showcase Kentucky’s horse power.
4089 Iron Works Pike
Lexington, KY 40511
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