While it's possible to live in Kentucky and not have a love for horses, it's not very likely. Even if you've never been to a horse race or visited a farm, chances are you have a soft spot in your heart for these beautiful animals. Lexington, Kentucky is known as the "Horse Capital of the World" and features more than 400 horse farms throughout the region. A large area of central Kentucky is home to these farms and you are welcome to visit many of them. To get started, try these six horse farm tours in the Bluegrass State that are perfectly enchanting.
1. Windy Meadows Horse Farm
Windy Meadows Farm is a lesser-known horse farm and equestrian center that offers tours by appointment only. Here, you'll learn about the day-to-day life of caretakers who tend to these beautiful animals - and you’ll get to meet many of them up close. Learn more about this delightful tour on the Oldham County Tourism website here.
2. Second Stride
Second Stride is also located in Oldham County and is a beautiful home for retired racehorses. As a non-profit, Second Stride raises funds for this cause and also has horses available for adoption on an ongoing basis. Tours are held by appointment and you can learn more here.
3. Horse Farm Tours
Horse Farm Tours is the ultimate experience for Thoroughbred lovers and those interested in the horse racing industry. On this three-hour tour, you'll visit farms, drive through horse country, and experience the history of Keeneland. You can find more information about this experience on the Horse Farm Tours website here.
4. Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours
If you've ever wanted to see the most decorated horses in the racing industry, then this tour is for you. This highly-rated experience is a three-hour-long narrated tour through horse country farms, and you'll be able to get up close and personal with some of the stars of the sport. Learn more and book a tour here.
5. WinStar Farm
WinStar Farm is one of the best-known farms in the state and offers tours of its highly active thoroughbred destination. Tour the Stallion Complex and the beautiful farm aboard a comfortable shuttle for a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the Bluegrass State. Read more about the tour and book your trip here.
6. Jonabell Farm
Jonabell Farm in Lexington is an incredible property. It serves as the American headquarters for HH Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin operation and is home to the Darley stallions in America. If you know anything about horse racing, then you know this is one of the most successful outfits in the world. Enjoy a 90-minute tour where you'll see the meticulous grounds, learn about the farm, and see some of the prized stallions. Find out more about this experience here.
A horse farm tour is a great experience for both local Kentuckians and those visiting our state, and there are plenty of opportunities to take one in the heart of horse country. Have you toured a horse farm in Kentucky? Are there others that weren’t included on this list that we should check out? Let us know in the comments!
If you'd like to plan an extended visit to horse country, check out the region's website here. And consider a stay at a horse-themed bed and breakfast, featured in our previous article here.
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