Our first glimpse of Keeneland Race Track was of rolling pastures and a verdant green landscape. We were meeting Matt, head of media relations, at the Keeneland Track Kitchen and got lost due to the vast size of the place. After asking for directions, we arrived at the Kitchen for breakfast. This Kitchen is known as “one of Lexington’s best kept dining secrets” and I can see why. Their food is delicious, abundant and reasonably priced. Frequented by famous trainers, jockeys and horse owners, we could have been sitting by any of them and never known it. The people were incredibly down to earth and friendly.
Before visiting I would have thought Keeneland would have only been of interest to horse racing fans, (they had just secured the site as home for the prestigious Breeder’s Cup), or prestigious horse buyers, but I could not have been more wrong. Although Keeneland offers several highly sought after horse sales each year, with typical prices in the $100K to $400K range, they offer free self-guided tours and plenty of opportunities for relaxation, picnics and photography opps. This is an incredible opportunity to watch horse trainers in action on the track or see prize winning horses up close. Founded in 1936, Keeneland offers a fascinating history of horse racing in Lexington .
We began our tour at the Sales Pavilion and, even though no horses were there, the excitement was palatable. Buyers come from all over the world to bid on the horses and have reserved seating in the auction room. Some people, like the Middle Eastern Sheiks, have their own private room that is so secret only a few people are privy to the location. We discussed the furtive bidding methods, with some people only tapping their foot to indicate a bid, and how the spotters watched for these movements.
The race track was being redone , but we were able to see the special addition Winner’s Circle, built as a requirement for the Queen of England to visit, and the lanes where the horses walked to make their appearance of the track. For those interested in learning more about thoroughbreds, a visit to the Keeneland library, housing over 20,000 books and journals, is a must.
I left Keeneland with an overwhelming desire to come during one of their famous sales. I was warned to arrive early because the facility would be packed.
If you go:
Two important tips to remember: Do not touch the horses and do not go into the horse barns unless invited.
Parking is free, except on race days, when it is a nominal $5 cost. The public is invited to attend the races and the horse sales for free.
The horse sales are free to watch along with the morning workouts, but there is a $5 charge for the race meets in April and October.
Keeneland covers 1200 acres so plan plenty of time to take it all in.
Keeneland is located at 4201 Versailles Drive, a short drive from Downtown Lexington.
I’ve never been to a race track, it looks huge and beautiful! I love horses so much, I think if I went to the track I’d want to pet and ride the horses instead of watching. Lol.
I’ve never been to a racetrack even though it’s something my family enjoys. This one is absolutely stunning.
That’s a gorgeous place. Sounds lik eyou had a great time.
I have never seen horse racing other than on TV. Those animals are amazing- so powerful!
Wow that place is gorgeous! I would love to just walk around and look even with nothing else going on at all! Looks like you had a really nice day!
This really is a beautiful place. I love the sprawling lawns and gardens. It looks like the perfect spot to go horseback riding.
I have yet to go see a race track. Maybe it’s because I don’t like horses racing, but seems like it’s something I should go see once 🙂
I can only imagine the atmosphere the sales day would have. What a cool inside look!
Nice. Looks like you had such a great experience.
My boys would enjoy this but I’m sure they won’t remember to not touch the horses. It’s something they would want to do. Looks like a beautiful place.
wow this place is gorgeous I love the beauty of horses and racetracks.
What a beautiful venue. You must have had a blast!
Wow, that is gorgeous greenery. I have never been there!
Looks like a ton of fun in Lexington. Beautiful pictures, thanks for sharing!
Your pictures are beautiful and love the way you described the beautiful place. I will have to put it on my wish list to visit. Thanks
What a beautiful location! I have never seen a horse race up close and personal. I would love to go at least once. We have a racetrack here in WA that is pretty close. I love all of your pictures!
I loved going to the race track when I was in my teens. I had friend’s who’s dad was a trainer. I loved that you included not to touch the horses as I remember that was one of the things that drove the trainers crazy. Thanks for sharing your pics were beautiful.
I have never officially been to one even though we live near a few.
I’ve always wanted to go to a track like this! This one is especially gorgeous! I know it’s for races, but what a fun place it would be for a photo shoot!
We grew up near a track and yet never went. My parents were strictly against it. We do stop at various horse ranches to watch the horses and feed them – they are so beautiful.
I love horses and also the thrill of an auction is so much fun,We always joke that you should make no sudden movements else you might end up bidding on something lol.But seriously Keeneland looks like a beautiful place.
I know it’s going to sound weird, but I grew up at the race track. My papa used to take me every Saturday night when I was a little girl.