Horse Attractions
Horse racing is an American pastime that is steeped in tradition and history. If you are visiting Kentucky, you should seriously consider going to a horse race. It is a great way to learn about and experience horse racing up close and personal.
Keeneland Downs
A historical venue that has been racing horses since 1936. They race horses every April and October. If you are visiting during a month other than April and October, there is still plenty to see and do at the Keeneland Race Track.
Tours
There are a variety of tours that you can choose from while visiting Keeneland. In fact, there are 5 different tours that they offer throughout the year.
The tours include morning works tours, owner’s experience tours, behind-the-scenes racing tours, backstretch tours, and behind-the-scenes sales tours.
Year-Round Tours: Morning Works Tours, Backstretch Tour
Seasonal Tours: Owner’s Experience Tours, Behind-the-Scenes Racing Tours, Behind-the-Scenes Sales Tours
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online and should be purchased in advance. The tours that are seasonal, especially around race days, tend to fill up quickly. If you are able to snag a spot for a tour, the prices are inexpensive as well.
The tickets for tours cost anywhere from $15 to under $100. They are a limited number of spots, so large groups are not ideal.
If you want to attend a horse race, tickets are going to start at $75 per person and box seats start at $868.
Racing
Keeneland is known for hosting the prestigious Breeder’s Cup. The race takes place in early November. You can place wagers there at the race or online with their online resources.
They also have their Spring Meet which takes place early in the spring. If you can’t make either of those dates you may be able to see athletes practicing in the early mornings.
Churchhill Downs
Churchhill Downs hosts the Kentucky Derby, an annual, two-week event that gets international attention. It is a lifelong dream for some to see a Kentucky Derby live and is a dream come true for those that attend the event.
Even if you do not go to see horse racing, you can visit and take a tour. General admission is inexpensive, $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and children 12 and under are free.
Racing
Of course, there is the Kentucky Derby, but there are also other opportunities to see live racing. Their Spring Meet runs from the end of April all the way until July 4. This gives you several months to find a time that works for you and your schedule.
For races, there are reserved boxes, suites, private rooms, and general admission. General admission tickets start at $7. The Kentucky Derby and Oaks tickets will cost more and packages start at the low $1000 and go to the high $9000.
Museum
Cost:
Adults: $17
Seniors (65+): $15
Children: $11
This museum will take you back in time and show you how racing has evolved. Add on a VIP Experience and make your own Derby Hat. Take a gift home from their gift shop and taste some Kentucky Bourbon.
If you have purchased a package for racing, your ticket is included.
Horsemen
Churchhill Downs prides itself on continuing the tradition of thoroughbred racing. They are committed to the care and well-being of racehorses for their entire lives. They partner with several local groups in the area such as Second Strides, Retired Racehorse Project, and Thoroughbred Charities of America.
For the horsemen, you can find information about stall applications and safety on
their website. As a spectator, you can also go online and find information about the horsemen and their profession.