Lexington , United States

Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour

Active

(17 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Thoroughbred Center's Behind the Scenes Tour offers an exclusive look at the training and stabling of thoroughbred race horses. Encompassing over 230 acres of prime Kentucky Bluegrass, this unique horse farm has the ability to accommodate over 1,100 horses. During morning training hours you will get to see horses up close while they workout on the track as well as walk through a barn where horses are stabled. Come see for yourself why trainers say The Thoroughbred Center is one of the best places in the world to train a horse. Minimum numbers are required to run this tour.

Available options

Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour

What's included

Transport by air-conditioned minibus

Driver/guide

Small-group tour (no more than 24)

What you'll see

Each tour starts at our main office which is located at the corner of Paris Pike and Johnston Road. Check in at the front desk and our tour guide will bring our mini bus around to pick you up.

At 9:00am the bus departs from the main office. The first barns you come to are the two largest and original barns on the property and can house up to 300 horses each. This is where you will likely see the horsemen hot-walking, grooming or bathing their horse. It's all part of the daily activity. You will then pass two training tracks and then get off of the bus to stand rail-side watching morning workouts. It is likely an outrider or exercise rider will approach the group so if you've ever wanted to ask them a question, this is your chance! The group spends 20 to 30 minutes rail-side before getting back on the bus to travel to the backside.

While on the backside you will see our training gate where horses learn to break from the gate, paddocks where horses spend their afternoons, hay and feed stores and more barns. As often as we can we will walk through Barn 28 and talk with trainer Mike Cameron if he is available. We spend about 30 minutes in the barn talking about the horses we see, how they are identified, what factors make central Kentucky the Horse Capital of the World and a myriad of other racing-related topics. He may even choose to pull a horse out of its stall! There is nothing quite like standing next to a 1,000-pound horse. So if you've ever wanted to have a Q & A session with a horse trainer, this will be your favorite part of the tour.

Depending on the time of year, size of the tour group and amount of time left, the next stop may be a short walk through a gate to our neighbor, Mill Iron Farm. They have a swimming pool for horses! Trainers will sometimes choose to send their horses to Mill Iron for a quick swim rather than taking them to the track. As you head back to the main office, notice the plank wood fences that are all around you. Nowhere in the world will you see as much of this iconic fencing as you will in Central Kentucky.

What's not included

Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately (Umbrellas are not permitted)

Meeting point

Departure Point: The Thoroughbred Center's Main Office
Address: 3380 Paris Pike, Lexington, KY 40511
Directions: Use the 2nd entrance at the corner of Paris Pike and Johnston Road.
Dates: April 1 – October 31
9:00am   Monday – Saturday

November 1 – March 31
9:00am    Monday – Friday

Important notes

• The Thoroughbred Center's Main Office - 3380 Paris Pike, Lexington, KY 40511
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Strollers are not permitted

About Lexington

Lexington is a vibrant city in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass region, renowned for its horse farms, bourbon distilleries, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of Southern charm, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for travelers of all interests.

Top Attractions

Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park is a 1,200-acre park dedicated to preserving the heritage of the horse. It features museums, a working farm, and daily horse shows.

Nature/Adventure 3-4 hours Moderate ($20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children)

Keeneland Race Course

Keeneland is one of the world's premier Thoroughbred race courses, known for its beautiful grounds and prestigious races. Visitors can enjoy races, tours, and shopping.

Entertainment/Cultural 2-3 hours Free to enter, ticket prices vary for races and events

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic Shaker community that offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved buildings, museums, and scenic trails.

Historical/Cultural 3-4 hours Moderate ($20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children)

Rupp Arena

Rupp Arena is a multi-purpose arena that hosts basketball games, concerts, and other events. It is home to the University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball team.

Entertainment/Sports 2-3 hours Variable (ticket prices depend on the event)

Lexington Cemetery

Lexington Cemetery is a historic cemetery that features beautiful landscapes, notable graves, and a rich history. It is a peaceful place to stroll and learn about Lexington's past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hot Brown

A classic Southern open-faced sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, topped with melted cheese and often served with a side of tomato aspic.

Lunch/Dinner Contains dairy and meat, can be made vegetarian or vegan with substitutions.

Bourbon Ball

A sweet and boozy treat made with bourbon, chocolate, and cream cheese, rolled in crushed nuts.

Dessert Contains dairy, nuts, and alcohol.

Fried Chicken

Crispy and flavorful fried chicken, often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and coleslaw.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten, can be made gluten-free with substitutions.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Red River Gorge Horseback riding Bourbon distillery tours Spa treatments Picnicking in parks Wine tasting Visiting museums Attending concerts and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant landscapes, with spring featuring blooming flowers and fall showcasing stunning foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lexington is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Blue Grass Airport • 6 miles (10 km) from downtown
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport • 80 miles (130 km) from downtown

By bus

Lexington Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

Lextran offers an affordable and convenient way to get around Lexington. Buses run frequently and cover most major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Lexington The Distillery District Chevy Chase Southland Drive

Day trips

Bourbon Trail

30-60 miles (50-100 km) from Lexington • Full day or overnight

The Bourbon Trail is a collection of distilleries in Kentucky that offer tours, tastings, and a glimpse into the bourbon-making process.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

30 miles (50 km) from Lexington • Half day or full day

Natural Bridge State Resort Park features a stunning natural sandstone bridge, hiking trails, and scenic views of the Red River Gorge.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

10 miles (16 km) from Lexington • Half day or full day

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic Shaker community that offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved buildings, museums, and scenic trails.

Festivals

Kentucky Horse Park's Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event • Late April to early May Bourbon & Bites Festival • October Lexington's Gallery Hop • First Thursday of each month

Pro tips

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park to learn about the region's rich equestrian history and see live horse shows.
Explore the Bourbon Trail to experience the art of bourbon-making and sample some of the world's finest bourbon.
Stroll through the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill to learn about the Shakers' way of life and their contributions to American history.
Enjoy a meal at a local Southern restaurant to experience the region's unique cuisine and hospitality.
Take a scenic drive through the Bluegrass region to admire the rolling hills, horse farms, and picturesque landscapes.