Welcome to horse country! Lexington, a city with a rich history of horse racing, features plenty of beautiful outdoors to enjoy and explore, as well as bourbon distilleries and bluegrass venues. Though the city isn’t exceptionally large, its layout -- and slightly out-of-town attractions -- make having a car essential to get around.
Must-See Places For Horse Lovers- Just a few miles from downtown is the Kentucky Horse Park, a paradise for horse lovers. The massive park offers pony rides, daily shows, a museum and tours to get you up close and personal with former racing champions.
- Less than 20 minutes outside Lexington, the Thoroughbred Center trains its equine athletes to be the best in the business. Visitors can spend time trackside as the horses thunder by for their morning workout, then chat with the trainers, who are always happy to field questions from visitors.
Top Day Trips Outside Lexington- The International Bluegrass Music Museum pays homage to the musicians integral to the bluegrass scene. Three miles west of Lexington in Owensboro, the museum hosts a monthly concert series as well as an annual ROMP festival that brings together talent from around the globe.
- Those seeking trail riding should head 24 miles north in Georgetown, where you’ll find the Whispering Woods Riding Stables. Regardless of your riding experience, explore acres of wooded trails on horseback, and keep an eye out for the occasional deer or turkey.