+44 203 026 1075
Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour
Lexington, US
84% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Up close view of race horses during morning training
- Walking through the stables and seeing the horses up close
- Opportunity to talk with a horse trainer and ask questions
- Visiting a neighbor farm with a swimming pool for horses
- Amazing views of iconic plank wood fences in Central Kentucky
-
Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
-
Small-group tour (max 24)
-
Transport by air-conditioned minibus
-
Expert guide included
-
Morning training observation
Experience the thrill of the race track up close with the Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour. This exclusive tour takes you behind the scenes of the training and stabling of thoroughbred race horses at The Thoroughbred Center in the heart of Kentucky Bluegrass. Watch horses workout on the track during morning training hours and get a close-up look at the stables where they are housed. With over 230 acres of pristine land, this horse farm is a sanctuary for over 1,100 horses. As you explore the property, you may even have the opportunity to meet and interact with a trainer and their horses. Immerse yourself in the world of horse racing and discover why The Thoroughbred Center is renowned as one of the best training facilities in the world. Book your tour now and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
1 hours 30 minutes
-
Available in English
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Please wait, fetching options!
Featured Reviews
Viator
Jan 21
We had a great time touring the race training track and stables. It was a private tour for my wife and myself. Very informative and pleasant. Highly recommended
Viator
Nov 20
Although it was raining, we had a very good tour with Annette. She is very knowledgeable, answered all questions and very personable. Found it fascinating as to what they do with the mucked out stalls. Quite a business in itself!
Viator
Oct 19
This is a tour that you must go on. The guide was so good, and shared her knowledge with us about the farm. We were able to pet the horses, and she was very enjoyable to be with.
A great time!
Viator
Oct 19
Loved this tour! Our tour guide was a very knowledgeable lady and made the tour fun! It is amazing what kind of training the thoroughbreds go through before they race and how many people the owners need to help prepare the horses. Well worth the time.
Viator
Jul 19
Had a great tour with Annette today. Our family of 6 was the only group on the tour. We learned a lot and also got to see many of the beautiful horses in action.
0
/
0
Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour
Discover the heart of Kentucky's horse racing with an insider's look at thoroughbred training at The Thoroughbred Center.
Included
-
Transport by air-conditioned minibus -
Driver/guide
-
Small-group tour (no more than 24)
Excluded
-
Gratuities -
Drinks
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
Kentucky , United States
End 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
Kentucky , United States
What to expect
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.
1
The Thoroughbred Center
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional 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)
Provided by The Thoroughbred Center
What our experts say
-
Visit nearby restaurants for lunch. -
Dress for outdoor weather; no umbrellas.
-
Arrive early to explore the center.
-
Ask the trainer about horse care tips.
-
Don’t miss the iconic plank wood fences.
More About this Experience
Introduction
The Thoroughbred Center's Behind the Scenes Tour is your exclusive invitation to witness the captivating world of thoroughbred racehorses. Nestled amidst 230 acres of lush Kentucky Bluegrass, this horse farm is a haven for over 1,100 majestic horses. Immerse yourself in the heart of horse racing as you witness the training and stabling of these incredible athletes. With its illustrious reputation as one of the premier destinations for horse trainers, The Thoroughbred Center offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of this extraordinary industry.What to expect?
During your tour, you can expect an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring moments. As you embark on this adventure, anticipate observing horses up close during their morning workouts on the track. Step inside the barns where these magnificent creatures are stabled and absorb the energy that permeates this world-renowned facility. Prepare to be captivated by the sight of trainers, hot-walking, grooming, and bathing these remarkable animals. It's an immersion into the daily activities that contribute to their exemplary performance on the racetrack.Who is this for?
This tour caters to any individual with a genuine appreciation for horses and a desire to delve into the world of thoroughbred racing. Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast, an aspiring jockey, or simply curious about Kentucky's equestrian culture, this experience guarantees an unparalleled insider's perspective. Open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests, it's a journey that welcomes anyone looking to deepen their understanding of these magnificent creatures and the sport that celebrates their strength and grace.Why book this?
Discover why The Thoroughbred Center's Behind the Scenes Tour stands as a remarkable opportunity that should not be missed. The chance to witness horses in their element, from their morning workouts to their stabling routines, offers a unique insight into the life of a racehorse. With a passionate and knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll gain remarkable insights into the various aspects of the racing industry. Imagine the thrill of standing next to a 1,000-pound horse or engaging in an engaging Q&A session with a seasoned horse trainer. With this extraordinary experience, you'll forge a deep connection to the world of thoroughbred racing that will leave you inspired.Good to know
To ensure a seamless experience, it's important to note that minimum numbers are required to run this tour. The tour starts at The Thoroughbred Center's Main Office, located at the corner of Paris Pike and Johnston Road. Upon check-in, a comfortable mini-bus will whisk you away to begin your adventure. The tour lasts for approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to appreciate the majestic sights and engage with the knowledgeable guide. From witnessing morning workouts to exploring neighboring Mill Iron Farm, this immersive journey into the heart of thoroughbred racing promises to be a memorable highlight of your visit to Lexington, Kentucky.Reviews
Visitors fortunate enough to experience The Thoroughbred Center's Behind the Scenes Tour have been effusive in their praise. They commend the exceptional access to the training and stabling facilities, allowing a genuine behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of horse racing. The opportunity to interact with trainers and witness the horses' morning workouts has left guests truly captivated. Many have expressed their admiration for the knowledgeable guides, whose passion for thoroughbred racing shines through in their engaging narratives. Overall, this tour has garnered rave reviews, with visitors leaving with a newfound appreciation for these incredible athletes and the captivating industry they inhabit.
Sorry, you just missed out!
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is