Breeders' Cup 2026 Tours
The 2026 Breeders' Cup will take place in Lexington, Kentucky at Keeneland. If you're looking to get the most out of your time in the Bluegrass State, our exclusive Breeders' Cup tours & experiences are the best way to experience a behind the scenes look at horse country and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™
Breeders' Cup Tours
Experience the spirit of Kentucky with scenic horse farm tours, bourbon tours and tastings, and our exclusive Buffalo Trace distillery tour: Champion's Eve.
Champion's Eve at Buffalo Trace
4.5 Hours • An exclusive experience at Buffalo Trace Distillery for Breeders' CupBegin Breeders’ Cup weekend with an unforgettable evening at Buffalo Trace Distillery—one of Kentucky’s most iconic and historic distilleries—opened exclusively for a limited, after-hours experience. As the sun sets, step inside for a private, guided tour and tasting, where you’ll explore the craftsmanship and heritage behind some of the world’s most celebrated bourbons. With fewer guests and a more intimate setting, this rare access offers a deeper, more immersive look into the magic of Buffalo Trace.
$449 Per Person
Best of Kentucky
Bourbon Distillery & Thoroughbred Horse Farm ToursImmerse yourself in the heart of the Bluegrass State with an exclusive Breeders' Cup experience. Your all-inclusive day features a guided tour of a thoroughbred farm, a local Southern-inspired lunch buffet, and a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting at a favorite distillery.
$299 Per Person
Bourbon Country
Breeders' Cup Distillery Tours & Southern Inspired LunchExperience the heart of the Bluegrass on this adventure through Kentucky Bourbon Country. Go behind the scenes at two premier distilleries to master the traditions and flavor profiles of world-class whiskeys, followed by an authentic Southern-inspired lunch. Luxury transportation is included.
$299 Per Person
Breeders' Cup Horse Country Tour
Exclusive Thoroughbred Farm ToursGo behind the fences for an immersive, full-day journey into the heart of the Bluegrass horse industry. This curated experience provides exclusive access to two horse farms with a southern-inspired lunch in between stops.
$299 Per Person
The Details
tour description
Go beyond the racetrack and explore the breathtaking horse farms and iconic bourbon distilleries that Kentucky is known for!
What's Included
- Luxury Guided Transportation: Relax as we explore the Bluegrass State
- Champion's Eve at Buffalo Trace Distillery: Get exclusive access to Buffalo Trace with this private tour and tasting! Guests will also enjoy a private dinner in the Clubhouse with a live bluegrass band. This 3-course dinner features the authentic flavors of Kentucky and includes two paired cocktails.
- Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tours: Our Bourbon Country tours include a visit to two iconic Bourbon Distilleries for tours and tastings.
- Best of Kentucky: A visit to one thoroughbred horse farm, followed by a lunch and then a full tour and tasting of a Kentucky Bourbon Trail Distillery.
- Horse Country: A visit to two thoroughbred horse farms to learn about the process of breeding and raising a viable racehorse.
- Local Lunch: Indulge in a delicious meal at a favorite local eatery. Included in all tours
Additional information
What to bring
- Wear closed-toe shoes
- Dress is casual for Bourbon Country, Best of Kentucky and Horse Country tours; Dress is Cocktail Casual for Champion's Eve at Buffalo Trace.
- You may bring a cooler with snacks and beverages on the bus.
- See each tour's details for departure information
Bourbon City Weekend Itinerary: Where to Stay, Eat, and Sip
Wednesday, Oct 8, 2025
Bourbon City Weekend Itinerary: Where to Stay, Eat, and Sip
Wednesday, Oct 8, 2025
Southern Hospitality with a Twist of Mint
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When and where is the 2026 Breeders’ Cup?
The 2026 Breeders’ Cup World Championships will take place at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky. The event dates are October 30th and 31st, 2026 and brings together the best thoroughbred horses, jockeys, and racing fans from around the world for two days of championship racing.
Where should I stay for the 2026 Breeders’ Cup?
The most popular places to stay during Breeders’ Cup weekend are Lexington, Louisville, and surrounding horse country towns. Lexington hotels tend to book up quickly because of their proximity to Keeneland, while Louisville offers more hotel inventory, luxury accommodations, and easy transportation options for race day. No matter which airport or city you're flying into, Mint Julep Experiences can provide private transportation and airport transfers for groups of all sizes!
How far is Louisville from Keeneland Race Course?
Louisville is about 75 miles from Keeneland, and the drive typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on traffic. Many visitors choose to stay in Louisville and arrange private transportation with Mint Julep Experiences or guided day trips to Keeneland during Breeders’ Cup weekend.
Do I need transportation for the Breeders’ Cup?
Yes. Transportation is one of the biggest logistical challenges during Breeders’ Cup weekend. Parking at Keeneland is limited and traffic can be heavy. Many visitors arrange private transportation, group shuttles, or guided experiences with Mint Julep Experiences so they can focus on enjoying the races without worrying about driving or parking.
Can I combine the Breeders’ Cup with a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip?
Absolutely. Many travelers combine the Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland with Kentucky Bourbon Trail® distillery tours. Since Lexington and Louisville sit near dozens of distilleries, it’s easy to work with Mint Julep Experiences and visit iconic spots like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Castle & Key before or after race day.
What else is there to do in Kentucky during Breeders’ Cup weekend?
Beyond the races, visitors often explore bourbon distilleries, horse farms, and the food scene in Lexington and Louisville. Popular experiences include guided bourbon tastings, horse farm tours in Kentucky horse country, chef-driven dining experiences, and exploring historic downtown areas like Louisville’s Whiskey Row with Mint Julep Experiences' ready to book tours!
How far in advance should I plan a Breeders’ Cup trip?
Planning early is highly recommended. Hotels, transportation, and premium experiences often begin booking 9–12 months in advance for Breeders’ Cup events. If you want access to the best accommodations and experiences, it’s smart to start planning as soon as tickets are released. If you need assistance with booking transportation, accommodations, and/or distillery tours & experiences, submit a custom tour request with Mint Julep Experiences to get started!
Can I book private experiences during Breeders’ Cup weekend?
Yes. Many travelers choose private tours and curated itineraries with Mint Julep Experiences that combine race day with bourbon tastings, horse farm visits, and dining reservations. These custom experiences help visitors make the most of their time in Kentucky without worrying about logistics.
What airports are closest to the 2026 Breeders’ Cup?
The closest airport to Keeneland is Blue Grass Airport (LEX) in Lexington, about 10 minutes away. Many visitors also fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), which offers more flight options and is about 1.5 hours from Keeneland. Mint Julep Experiences offers private airport transfers to and from both LEX and SDF.
Is the Breeders’ Cup worth traveling for?
For horse racing fans, the Breeders’ Cup is often called “the Super Bowl of horse racing.” It features the world’s best thoroughbreds competing in championship races, plus a lively atmosphere filled with fashion, hospitality events, bourbon culture, and Southern hospitality. Make your trip to the Bluegrass State for Breeders' Cup unforgettable by adding a tour with Mint Julep Experiences to your itinerary!
