Kentucky’s Horse Country offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Thoroughbreds. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a curious newcomer, a variety of tours are available to provide an in-depth look at this iconic industry. From visiting champion stallions and learning about equine care to experiencing the thrill of morning training sessions, these experiences cater to diverse interests. Discover the magic of horse country tours.
Champion Studs and Breeding Operations
For those fascinated by the lineage of racing legends, tours focused on champion studs offer an unparalleled glimpse into the breeding side of the Thoroughbred business.
WinStar Farm Stallion Tour
This one-hour tour provides an introduction to WinStar Farm’s history and operations, culminating in meeting some of the resident champion stallions. You’ll gain insights into the world of thoroughbred breeding and the facilities that support these magnificent animals.
Visit Coolmore at Ashford Stud
Discover the daily life of a working Thoroughbred stallion operation on this guided tour. Learn about the history of Ashford Stud and the many famous horses that have been part of its legacy.
Visit Godolphin’s Jonabell Farm | Stallion Complex Walking Tour
Ideal for those interested in the global Thoroughbred industry, this tour focuses on the stallion business. You’ll have the chance to see some of the biggest names in horse racing history, but be prepared for ample walking.
Taylor Made Farm | Stallion Tour
Meet renowned stallions like Not This Time and other powerhouse sires at Taylor Made Farm. This experience includes a private showing and the opportunity to hear the stories behind these champions.
Visit Lane’s End Farm | Stallion Complex Tour
This tour is tailored for guests eager to learn about the stallion business and breeding industry in Kentucky, offering a chance to see prominent figures in horse racing history.
Equine Performance, Care, and Rehabilitation
Beyond the breeding aspect, several tours focus on the training, care, and welfare of horses, including those seeking new homes.
Visit the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center
This experience allows for close interaction with horses awaiting adoption. You’ll learn about equine care, rehabilitation, and retraining, offering a heartwarming perspective on second chances for these animals.
Pin Oak Stud Training Center Experience
Gain an inside look at the process of training and rehabilitating racehorses. This tour includes visits to the stallion barn, training track, and rehabilitation barn, offering a comprehensive view of equine athletic development.
Visit TRF at Chestnut Hall
Located near Louisville, this tour offers a tranquil experience with racehorses in retirement. Hear their stories and learn about a historical site while enjoying the company of these seasoned equine athletes.
Visit New Vocations
Discover how the New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program rehabilitates, retrains, and rehomes horses after their racing careers. This tour highlights the versatility and adaptability of Thoroughbreds.
Visit Second Stride
Witness firsthand the versatility of the Thoroughbred breed as you learn about the retraining and rehoming processes for these remarkable athletes.
Visit Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
For a behind-the-scenes look at equine veterinary medicine, this tour highlights the care and commitment dedicated to horses’ well-being. It’s a must-see for any horse lover.
Visit BraveHearts Equine Center
As the largest draft horse rescue in the state, BraveHearts offers a chance to learn about the rehabilitation and adoption process for various equine breeds, including Belgians, Clydesdales, and Percherons.
Visit the Secretariat Center
Similar to Second Stride, this tour showcases the adaptability of Thoroughbreds and the efforts involved in retraining and rehoming them after their racing days.
Family-Friendly and Interactive Experiences
Several tours are designed to be engaging for all ages, offering hands-on opportunities and unique perspectives.
Visit Mill Ridge Farm
This well-rounded farm tour is perfect for guests who want to touch a horse and learn about the Thoroughbred business. It offers a chance to interact with the horses and gain a comprehensive understanding of farm operations. Note: This tour requires guests to arrive in their own vehicles.
Pin Oak Stud Nursery Experience
Meet the mares and foals at Pin Oak Stud for a behind-the-scenes look. This tour involves walking and standing, and guests are required to use their own vehicles due to the farm’s layout.
Visit Hallway Feeds
Go behind the scenes at a feed manufacturing plant and learn about the production of feeds that fuel champions. You’ll have the opportunity to get hands-on with freshly made feeds and understand their importance in equine nutrition.
Visit Godolphin’s Gainsborough Farm | Mares & Foals Shuttle Tour
Enjoy a scenic drive through a beautiful farm while learning about breeding and raising young Thoroughbreds. This tour provides insights into the global breeding and raising practices for young Thoroughbreds.
The Spendthrift Farm Shuttle Experience
This tour allows guests to cruise through a beautiful farm, learning about breeding and raising young Thoroughbreds, with opportunities to get up close with mares and foals.
The Lane’s End Shuttle Experience
Learn about the breadth of the Thoroughbred business, including breeding and raising young Thoroughbreds, with opportunities for hands-on interaction with the horses.
Keeneland Backstretch Tour
Stroll around Keeneland’s stable area, observing activities like racehorses being bathed or shod. The tour also includes visits to the main track, training track, racing office, and Sales Pavilion when available.
Keeneland Owner’s Experience
Experience race day at Keeneland as an owner would, from the Saddling Paddock pageantry to the thrilling sound of hooves. This is the ultimate immersion for racing enthusiasts.
Sunrise Training Tour at Keeneland
Get an exclusive look at Keeneland’s morning training from iconic vantage points around the track, feeling the energy and rhythm of the horses’ preparations.
Keeneland Behind-the-Scenes Sales Experience
Explore the world’s leading Thoroughbred auction house with a behind-the-scenes look at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion and auction ring, where many racing greats have been sold.
Extended Shuttle Tour of WinStar Farm
This tour covers the breadth of the Thoroughbred business, including a visit to the stallion barn and a scenic drive learning about breeding and raising young Thoroughbreds.
Evening Shuttle Ride at WinStar Farm
Enjoy a drive through Kentucky Horse Country aboard the WinStar Farm shuttle, observing horses in paddocks and experiencing the ambiance of an evening at a horse farm.
Morning Training Experience at WinStar Farm
Cruise through WinStar Farm and witness horses exercising on the track at the state-of-the-art training center.
Visit Airdrie Stud
Tour one of Kentucky’s historic Thoroughbred breeding farms, visiting stallions, mares, and foals, and reflecting on the property’s rich history. Note: Restrooms are not available, and certain vehicles are restricted.
Planning Your Visit
To begin planning your visit to Kentucky’s Horse Country, utilize the provided filters to find the most up-to-date tour listings. For trip planning inspiration, explore itineraries and guides. Private tour options are also available for small groups. Should you have any questions, the Horse Country customer service team can be reached at (859) 963-1004 or via email.
Categories:
- Champion Studs
- Equine Performance & Care
- Family Friendly
- Interactive
- Mama Mares & Baby Foals
- Sanctuaries & Adoption
Locations:
- Versailles / Woodford County
- Paris / Bourbon County
- Lexington / Fayette County
- Nicholasville / Jessamine County
- Prospect / Oldham County
For a detailed list of available tours, including dates, times, duration, pricing, and group sizes, please refer to the specific tour listings on the Visit Horse Country website. Remember to book in advance, as popular tours can fill up quickly.
