Lexington Kentucky Attractions for Horse Lovers

Lexington Kentucky, known as the horse capital of the world, offers many options for horse lovers on vacation. From exciting race tracks and multi-million dollar horse auctions to quiet, picturesque bluegrass pastures bordered by post and rail fences, the heart of Kentucky is paradise for equines and equine enthusiasts.

• Visit the Kentucky Horse Park, a 1200 acre working horse farm/State Park housing more than 50 breeds of horse. The park features numerous equine presentations, tours and carriage rides as well as the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddle Horse Museum. The park also hosts many prestigious equestrian events throughout the year. The Kentucky Horse Park holds the singular honor of being the first non-European host of the FEI World Equestrian Games, which will take place in 2010. Kentucky Horse Park: 800-678-8813

• Watch early morning workouts at Keenland Race Course or the Red Mile Harness Track and indulge in a self guided track tour. Keenland Race Course: 859-254-3412 or 800-456-3412. The Red Mile Harness Track: 859-255-0752

• Visit the beautiful life-sized bronzes at Thoroughbred Park (at Main and Midland streets), or meet some up and coming stars at some of the area's hundreds of horse farms. If you enjoy touring solo, contact the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau for a list of farms that allow visitors at 1-800-845-3959.

• If guided tours are more your style, there are several companies to choose from including Blue Grass Tours, Horse Farm Tours, Thoroughbred Heritage Tours, and Unique Horse Farm Tours. The average fee is around $30 per adult and $20 for children under 12. When visiting a horse farm, it is customary to tip the representative who shows you around. Don't forget to ask if the tour fee includes tips.

• Meet retired living legends at Old Friends, a retirement home for elderly equines based at Dream Chase Farm near the Kentucky Horse Park. The only facility of its kind to accept stallions, this retirement farm houses various Hall of Fame champions, award winners and celebrity horses. Old Friends: 502-863-1775

• During the months of January, July, September and November, you can indulge in the lifestyles of the rich and famous and view some of the best horses in the world by attending the major horse sales at Keenland and Fasig Tipton. Keenland Sales: 859-254-3412. Fasig Tipton: 859-255-1555.

At the end of the day, you can relax and enjoy the entertaining night life that Lexington has to offer. From fine dining to ethnic-takeout, comedy clubs to night clubs, there is something for everyone. All around the city, the equine theme continues-on wall murals and at shopping mall entrances. The Horse Capital of the World celebrates its heritage and invites you to participate and indulge your passion. Horse lovers, welcome home to Lexington!