Lexington Horse Farm Tour: Private Farms & Insider Access

Summary

Behind the barn doors in kentucky’s horse country with real stories and up-close moments

You’ll ride through Lexington’s rolling horse country with an insider guide who knows every barn door and story. Feed peppermints to thoroughbreds, watch young horses swim for exercise, and stand quietly among generations-old traditions. Expect laughter, muddy boots, and a real sense of Kentucky warmth — not just another tour.

What’s the experience like?

The morning didn’t start like I’d planned — I managed to spill coffee on my jeans right before the pickup. But honestly, nobody seemed to care once we got rolling through Lexington’s backroads. Our guide, Mike (he grew up around here), just grinned and said, “Horses don’t mind coffee stains.” The bus was cool inside, which felt good since the Kentucky sun was already pushing through the clouds. I kept catching glimpses of old white fences and those impossibly green fields out the window.

First stop was this sprawling horse farm — three barns so big you could get lost if you weren’t paying attention. The smell hit me first: hay, leather, something sweet I couldn’t place. We fed peppermints to these gentle broodmares; their noses are softer than I expected. Mike told us about one foal’s family tree like he was talking about neighbors. Someone tried to snap a selfie and the horse just leaned in — made us all laugh. That moment felt oddly personal, like you’re part of some ongoing story.

I didn’t expect to watch yearlings swimming — that’s apparently a thing here? It looked almost playful, legs churning under water while a couple of farmhands shouted encouragement from the side. There was this quiet between splashes where you could hear birds and distant tractors. I found myself thinking how much work goes into raising these horses before they ever see a racetrack. We stopped for a bit just to watch them dry off in the sun, steam rising off their backs.

What stuck with me wasn’t just seeing famous Kentucky horse farms or ticking off another “day trip Lexington” activity. It was little things: how everyone waved as we passed, how Mike knew every gate code by heart, or that feeling when a foal nuzzled my hand (okay, maybe it just wanted more peppermints). If you want something polished or staged, this isn’t it — but if you want to actually feel what makes this place tick… well, it sort of sneaks up on you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit three horse farms and meet horses

• Disembark at first horse farm
• Feed horses peppermints and take photos
• See young yearlings swim up close
• Learn about horse racing and breeding
• Explore time-honored horse farm traditions

Top questions

How long does the Lexington horse farm tour last?

The tour typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours.

Are children allowed on the Lexington horse farm tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are welcome.

Is transportation included for the day trip?

Yes, an air-conditioned tour bus is included for all guests.

What time does the horse farm tour start?

Tours usually begin at 8:30 AM and 12 Noon daily.

Will we get to feed or interact with the horses?

Yes, guests can feed treats like peppermints to horses under supervision.

Are service animals permitted on this Lexington tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

How many farms do we visit during the experience?

You’ll visit three different Lexington area horse attractions based on best availability.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the pickup point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport through Lexington’s iconic horse country with a professional local guide at your side; entry and insider access to three private horse farms chosen for their unique activities; supervised opportunities to feed treats to broodmares and foals; plus plenty of time for photos and questions before returning comfortably at tour’s end.