Kentucky Horse Country
Visit Kentucky’s most famous Horse Country attractions, legendary horse farms & race tracks
Legendary horses including Kentucky Derby winners and Breeders’ Cup champions call Kentucky home. Many stud horse farms offer tours to see these fantastic animals. To find the next star, see foals at a horse nursery or visit a training facility where yearlings prep for their maiden race.
The Bluegrass State is also home to two of the most famous horse racing tracks in the world – Churchill Downs and Keeneland Race Course. During April, May, June, September, October and November, watch live horse racing and place your bets! Keep in mind that the Kentucky Derby takes place the first weekend in May each year. The Kentucky Derby Museum is open year-round to explore the legacy of the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” and take historic walking tours of Churchill Downs.
Mint Julep offers public horse farm tours and other horse-related experiences on custom tours year-round. Public ticketed bus tours will be available the Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday of Derby Week Tours.
Custom Tour Itinerary with Horse Country Destinations
Add horse farms to your customized tour itinerary to give your group a full Kentucky experience. More than 20 horse farms open their doors for tours. Your visit Horse Country can include stud farms, nurseries, clinics and training facilities. Ask your experience coordinator to suggest the best destination for your tour.
Groups also love a history lesson at landmarks like Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby Museum, and Keeneland Race Course.
Kismet Horse Farm, Woodford Reserve & Whiskey Thief Tour
This ticketed tour combines Kentucky’s Horse Country and Bourbon Country into a full day of adventure! The itinerary includes guided transportation, a horse farm tour at Kismet Horse Farm, 2 distillery experiences at Woodford Reserve and Whiskey Thief, along with a local lunch.
Kentucky Derby Week Horse Country Tours
Travel through scenic rolling hills and Kentucky countryside on a full-day Horse Country experience during the Kentucky Derby Week. Visit world-renowned thoroughbred stallion farms during Kentucky Derby week, learn about stud farms, racing and more.
To visit horse farms, Churchill Downs or a horse race in Louisville or Lexington any other time of the year, please contact us and work with an Experience Coordinator to tailor a custom tour itinerary.
Horse Country
These are just a few of the horse-inspired destinations we go to. Reach out to us for more information on Horse Country via phone 502-583-1433 or via email at info@mintjuleptours.com.
- Claiborne
- Churchill Downs
- Coolmore @ Ashford Stud
- Hermitage Farm
- Keeneland
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Mill Ridge
- Old Friends Retirement Farm
- Taylor Made
- Winstar
- Sun Valley Farm
Horse Races at Churchill Downs [Louisville, Kentucky]
Churchill Downs, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is renowned for hosting some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The most notable event is the Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May. This iconic race, often referred to as “The Run for the Roses,” attracts spectators from around the globe who come to witness the “most exciting two minutes in sports.”
Race Schedule
Kentucky Derby: The pinnacle of the racing calendar, featuring top thoroughbreds competing for the coveted title.
Kentucky Oaks: Held the day before the Kentucky Derby, this race is dedicated to three-year-old fillies and is a significant event in its own right.
Spring and Fall Meets: In addition to the Derby and Oaks, Churchill Downs hosts spring and fall racing meets, offering a variety of races that draw large crowds and enthusiastic bettors.
The prime time to visit Churchill Downs is during the Kentucky Derby Festival, which spans the two weeks leading up to the Derby. However, the spring meet typically runs from late April to early July, and the fall meet takes place in October and November. These periods offer ample opportunities to experience the thrill of horse racing.
What to Know When Attending a Horse Race
Dress Code: Embrace the tradition by donning stylish and elegant attire. Ladies often wear ornate hats, while gentlemen opt for seersucker suits or blazers.
Betting: Familiarize yourself with the basics of horse race betting. Wagering can be an exciting way to engage with the event, but it’s essential to gamble responsibly.
Arrival and Parking: Plan to arrive early to navigate the crowds and find parking. Consider transportation options to avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
For a seamless and memorable visit to Churchill Downs, Mint Julep Experiences is a trusted partner in organizing custom travel itineraries. They offer comprehensive packages that include transportation to and from the race field, ensuring a stress-free experience. Their expertise in crafting exclusive and immersive tours makes them the perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy the races in style and comfort.
Horse Races at Keenland [Lexingtonn, Kentucky]
Keeneland, located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, is one of the most iconic horse racing tracks in the world. Established in 1936, Keeneland is renowned for its dedication to the sport and tradition of thoroughbred racing.
Race Schedule
Spring and Fall Meet: Keeneland hosts two major racing seasons each year. The Spring Meet typically takes place in April, while the Fall Meet is held in October. Each meet spans several weeks and features numerous prestigious races, including the Blue Grass Stakes in the spring and the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup in the fall.
Historic Venue: Keeneland is a National Historic Landmark, offering a picturesque setting with its beautifully maintained grounds, historic grandstand, and stunning views of the rolling Kentucky hills.
World-Class Racing: Keeneland attracts top-tier horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the globe, ensuring high-quality racing and thrilling finishes.
Attending a Horse Race at Keeneland
When attending a horse race at Keeneland, there are several things to keep in mind to enhance your experience:
Dress Code: Keeneland has a tradition of stylish dress, with many attendees opting for smart casual or formal attire. Spring meet attendees often sport bright, colorful outfits, while the fall meet leans towards classic autumnal styles.
Betting: Participating in betting is a significant part of the Keeneland experience. Novices can start with simple bets like “win,” “place,” and “show,” while more experienced bettors might try their luck with exactas or trifectas.
Dining and Amenities: Keeneland offers a range of dining options, from casual fare to fine dining experiences. Be sure to explore the Keeneland Shop for unique souvenirs and equestrian-themed gifts.
To make the most of your trip to Keeneland, consider partnering with Mint Julep Experiences. We specialize in creating personalized itineraries that include:
Transportation: Enjoy seamless travel to and from the race track with private transportation options.
Exclusive Access: Gain insider access to behind-the-scenes tours, private suites, and exclusive events.
Tailored Experiences: Mint Julep Experiences can customize your day at the races to include curated dining, horse farm tours, a day of golf with the race and more.
Attending a horse race at Keeneland is not just about the races; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich traditions and vibrant atmosphere that make this venue so special. Let Mint Julep Experiences handle the details so you can focus on enjoying an unforgettable day at the track!