The “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington, Kentucky (KY), is home to more than simply renowned racetracks and horse competitions. Although the most well-known attractions in the city are probably the Kentucky Horse Park and Keeneland Racecourse, Lexington’s equestrian history extends beyond these locations.
The area is peppered with secret horse farms that date back many generations. In these farms, the culture of horse care, training, and breeding flourishes in bucolic, pastoral settings.
These farms provide visitors with a unique opportunity to get a close-up, off-the-beaten-path look at Kentucky’s ingrained horse culture. Whether you’re an enthusiastic horse aficionado or just interested in learning more, these lesser-known farms are worth investigating.
Traveling to Lexington and Accommodation
Arriving in Lexington is not too difficult; there are several ways to get there, depending on where you are. Blue Grass Airport is the most convenient airport if you’re flying, as it’s only 6 miles west of Lexington’s downtown. It only takes a fifteen-minute drive to get downtown from the airport.
The airport has direct flights from locations including Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta and services a number of major airlines. There are a total of four airlines flying out of the Blue Grass Airport, including Delta, American Airlines, Allegiant, and United. These flights can take you directly to 16 cities, from where you can then travel to destinations across the world.
Interstates connect Lexington to other cities well for motorists. The city is connected to Cincinnati and Knoxville by Interstate 75 and to Louisville and Charleston, West Virginia, via Interstate 64. The scenery along the route is beautiful, especially as you approach Lexington. The area is dotted with lovely farms and undulating hills.
There are several options for lodging in Lexington, ranging from opulent hotels to small bed & breakfasts. Lodging in the city’s downtown is recommended for those who want to combine their equestrian activities with access to dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
It is best to do some research beforehand to find the best downtown Lexington, KY hotels and make a reservation before traveling there. This is especially true if you are planning to travel around any horse racing event. For instance, Fox 56 News states that an estimated 150,000 people were expected to travel to the state for the Kentucky Derby in 2023.
Tourism experts expected that this influx of tourists could bring around $405 million to the state’s economy. This shows how these events can increase the number of tourists, reducing the chances of getting good accommodations at the last minute. Therefore, it is wise to do some research and find the right location to stay for your trip.
As stated by The Manchester, you can find hotels offering a wide range of accommodations, from simple guest rooms to luxury suites. While staying at these hotels, you can enjoy much more than just bourbon and horses. For example, you can enjoy a Bluegrass Distillery tour, Polo lessons, massage, etc.
A Journey Through Lexington’s Equestrian History
The history of horses in Lexington dates back to the late 1700s. This was when locals realized that the region’s rich soil in limestone and comfortable weather made it a perfect place to raise horses. The area swiftly developed into a breeding center, with Thoroughbreds taking center stage because of their grace, speed, and endurance.
This region gave rise to some of the most well-known horses in history, including Secretariat and Man o’ War. The legacies of these horses are now remembered on ranches that have been in the family for many generations.
The horse that won most of the Triple Crown Races was Secretariat. He was the most well-known racehorse, also known by the name Big Red. The Preakness, Kentucky Derby, and Belmont Stakes were all won by the Secretariat. He also established unbreakable records in each of the three Triple Crown events.
Even today, the city is home to many Thoroughbreds where horses are raised and trained to participate in races. According to The Globe and Mail, there are roughly around 450 Thoroughbred farms in Lexington, surrounded by verdant meadows and hills. Moreover, every three of the four Kentucky Derby champions were raised in this region.
It is sometimes overlooked, though, that many of these farms are not large-scale, industrial breeding facilities. Rather, there are family-run farms nestled among the undulating bluegrass hills where the love of horses is inherited and passed down through the years. Horses are a way of life here, not just a means of commerce.
What to Expect When Visiting Lexington’s Hidden Horse Farms
Going to one of Lexington’s smaller, less well-known horse farms can be a welcome diversion from prominent venues’ more expensive, mass-market experiences. Many undiscovered treasures provide guided tours so guests can get up close and personal with the horses.
You could experience every stage of a horse’s life on certain farms. Young horses run around in the pastures, and the older ones have retired from competitive racing. The caregivers frequently possess extensive expertise, and their love for horses shines through in all they do. These smaller farms allow for more intimate connections because they are often calmer and more laid back than bigger businesses.
These farms usually concentrate on the retirement and rehabilitation of horses. Many of them give retired racehorses a tranquil existence once their racing careers are ended. Anecdotes about their racing careers frequently accompany these horses. Adoption events like The ASPCA Right Horse program also give adoption options to tourists. Older Thoroughbreds and retired horses are available for selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is one of the oldest horse farms in Lexington?
Claiborne Farm is one of the oldest in Lexington, with a history of over 109 years. With 3,000 acres to run its greatest stallions, it has produced 300 champion sires, 10 Kentucky Derby winners, and six Triple Crown winners.
Can you tour horse farms in Lexington, Kentucky?
Yes, many horse farms in Lexington, Kentucky, offer tours to visitors. These trips provide visitors with an up-close glimpse at some of the best Thoroughbred horse ranches in the world. Your tour guide will take you to the historic Keeneland Race Course, horse farms, and other local sights.
Why is Lexington known for horses?
Lexington is famed for its horses because the people who, during the American Revolution, brought their horses with them to Kentucky settled here. They chose this destination for its long, gently undulating hills that served as a foal and yearling’s natural playtime and training field.
Lexington’s secret horse farms provide a rare window into a more sedate and intimate aspect of the state’s equestrian culture. The experience surpasses the glamor and frenzy of the Kentucky Derby or Keeneland racing days. You may establish a connection with the environment, wildlife, and the people who have built this heritage over many years here.
These farms offer a genuine, enlightening experience for those who want to venture beyond the typical tourist routes. A visit to Lexington’s hidden gems offers a peaceful, educational, and deeply rewarding escape into the heart of horse country.
