The Kentucky Horse Park is a top-rated attraction in Lexington, KY. It is home to retired award-winning horses, museum exhibits, meet & greets, and fun for the entire family. And best of all, it’s informative, engaging, and will make a horse fan out of anyone. I’m living proof.
For whatever reason, I never cared for horses other than to admire their beauty. I even met award-winning ones that made more money in one race than I will in my whole life. I can see why over half a million visitors come to the Kentucky Horse Park each year.
Kentucky Horse Park Admission and FAQ
Giddy up and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the charming Kentucky Horse Park! Since 1978, this attraction has been galloping its way into tourists’ hearts with its all-encompassing love of horses.
You can grab your admission tickets at the Visitor Center inside the front entrance.
General admission tickets are reasonably priced at $20 for adults and an affordable $10 for kids from 6 to 12, while the little ones under five can enjoy this equine paradise for free! The military (with ID) and seniors can also avail of exciting discounts.
Spring, March 15 – April 30, and Winter, November 5 – March 14, seasons offers tickets at a reduced rate.
The park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM from Wednesday through Sunday, while closed on Monday and Tuesdays.
Since we know that one visit might not be enough, you can enjoy the next day for free with the same ticket, except for major events and holidays, which makes for a delightful bonus! But don’t forget to add $6 for parking.
Unfortunately, the park is closed on Thanksgiving Eve and Day, Christmas Eve and Day, and New Year’s Eve and Day, so keep that in mind while planning your visit.
Kentucky Horse Park Entrance
As you wander towards the Kentucky Horse Park entrance, you’ll catch a glimpse of the historic Salyers House and the stunning Secretariat Plaza, where you can snap a photo with the magnificent bronze statue of the legendary Triple Crown winner.
But that’s not all – there are plenty of other awe-inspiring horse statues to admire, including Man o’ War’s burial site and the resting place of many of his offspring.
Kentucky Horse Park Attractions
Once you enter the park, grab a guide map to plan out your day full of exciting activities and events. Make sure to check out the daily schedule so you don’t miss out on anything, like the breathtaking Hall of Champions Show, the fascinating Big Barn Stall-Side Chat, or the colorful Parade of Breeds.
Prepare to be wowed at the Farming Exhibit and learn all about the history and practices of farming. Then, at the Mounted Police Barn, you can interact with Kentucky Horse Park Mounted Police and their majestic horses. Get ready to pet these gentle giants and learn about their jobs in a fun and engaging way.
Do you have a favorite horse breed? Head on over to the Breeds Barn to see different breeds like Icelandic, American Morgan, Andalusian, Lipizzaner, and more.
Learn about their unique traits and personalities. Catch the Parade of Breeds and watch them being pampered for their afternoon show.
Wrap up your visit with a fascinating film at the Nation Theater in the Visitors Center. Currently showing Reign of Nobility, this film will leave you in awe and wanting more.
Big Barn
Welcome to the Hall of Champions & Big Barn, where two of the most exciting attractions await you! Get ready to dive deep into the world of horses – we promise it’s going to be a wild ride.
The Big Barn is a playground for animal lovers who want to learn more about these majestic creatures. You’ll have the opportunity to meet some big boys – the “large” draft horses – and get up close and personal with them.
With instructors leading the way, you’ll discover how to measure a horse, what they like to eat, their quirky behaviors, and if they play well with others. It’s a fascinating experience that I highly recommend.
Though the Big Barn is open for exploration at any time, check the schedule for informative and instructor-led meet and greets.
And if you’re looking for something truly special, get ready to meet Elvis and Kaiser – two world-famous Clydesdales that’ll take your breath away. Kaiser is a silver-maned, 1,800-pound charmer who’s sure to catch your eye.
Elvis is an equally stunning Clydesdale, but not quite as outgoing as Kaiser. He is very jealous if you aren’t giving him all the attention, so be mindful to spread the love equally.
Hall of Champions
Get ready to be amazed as you step into the Hall of Champions at the Kentucky Horse Park! Take a close encounter with two legendary thoroughbred horses – Funny Cide, who won the Kentucky Derby & Preakness Stakes in 2003 and Go For Gin, the world’s oldest living Derby champion.
Apart from these two, there are several other champion horses taking it easy in style. This experience will leave you truly awe-inspired! Don’t forget to snap some memorable photos.
Other KY Horse Park Offerings
Before heading out, take a stroll through the Memorial Walk of Champions located just behind the Hall of Champions. Here, you’ll come across the resting places of various award-winning horses.
If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love the pony rides and playground area open from 11 AM to 4 PM. Just remember to purchase your tickets at the entrance, as space is limited.
If you’re hungry, grab a bite at the High Horizon’s Food Truck, serving up delicious hot and cold sandwiches, smoothies, and coffee daily from 10 to 3.
There is also a well-appointed gift shop inside the Visitors Center with beautiful souvenirs, logo apparel, toys, snacks, and cold drinks. The pottery is fantastic; I wanted to take home each and every piece.
Museums at the Kentucky Horse Park
Get ready for a deep dive into the fascinating world of horses at the Kentucky Horse Park’s International Museum of the Horse (IMH)! This Smithsonian Affiliate is a must-see for any equestrian enthusiast. You’ll be blown away by the diverse range of exhibits, films, photographs, and artifacts that showcase the horse’s worldwide impact throughout history.
The IMH pays tribute to the horse’s incredible athleticism through sporting events dating back to chariot racing.
Make sure not to miss the Al-Marah Arabian Horse Gallery, perfect for young audiences with interactive multimedia. Kids will love learning about these majestic Arabian horses. And of course, the American Saddlebred Museum is a true gem, highlighting the incredible role these horses have played in shaping our culture and history.
But the real highlight is the stunning artwork that adorns the museum walls. You may just fall down the rabbit hole admiring it all! Come explore the IMH and see why it’s one of our favorite parts of the Kentucky Horse Park.
Horse Park Grounds
The Kentucky Horse Park’s staff takes great pride in maintaining the impeccable grounds. With the flowers and trees in full bloom and the buildings in pristine condition, you’ll be in awe of the stunning beauty around every corner.
And if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to rest and soak in the scenery, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
We do want to remind you that the horses of the Kentucky Horse Park call this place their home, so no petting or feeding without the guidance of an instructor. But don’t let that stop you from experiencing the majesty of these magnificent animals.
So come on over and enjoy a relaxing stroll through our vast grounds – just be prepared for a bit of walking as the property is huge!
With so much to explore, the Kentucky Horse Park is a must-see for any horse lover and adventurous traveler. So saddle up and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Kentucky Horse Park
4089 Iron Works Parkway
Lexington, Kentucky 40511
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