There's nothing quite like the excitement of world-class Thoroughbred racing or the charm of the Bluegrass. Whether you're a local, a returning visitor, or experiencing Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World for the first time, we're delighted to welcome you for the 2026 Breeders' Cup World Championships at Keeneland on October 30–31.
Make the most of your time in Lexington by arriving early for Keeneland's Fall Meet and staying a little longer to experience everything beyond the track. From bourbon and award-winning dining to local shopping, iconic horse farms, historic landmarks, and unforgettable experiences that make Lexington a destination unlike any other. Consider this your guide to making the most of your Breeders' Cup experience.
Explore Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World
Pictured: A Tour at Keeneland
There’s no better place to experience the world of Thoroughbreds than Lexington. Whether you’re watching champions compete at the Breeders’ Cup or exploring the region’s more than 450 iconic horse farms across the region, you’ll find countless opportunities to get up close with these remarkable athletes.
Book directly with a farm to visit some of the world’s most prestigious breeding and training operations. Meet past, present, and future champions at iconic farms like Claiborne Farm, where 2026 Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo was born and raised and where you can visit Secretariat's gravesite; Spendthrift Farm, home to leading sire Into Mischief; and Coolmore at Ashford Stud, where Triple Crown champions American Pharoah and Justify have stood. Explore the complete list of horse farms and tours to find the experience that's right for you. For a guided experience, Visit Horse Country makes it easy to connect with the horse industry through immersive experiences at renowned horse farms and attractions such as equine medical clinics, feed mills, and retirement facilities.
Keeneland has been a gem of Thoroughbred racing since 1936 and is one of the world’s most beautiful racetracks. Explore its picturesque grounds at your own pace or join a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the historic racecourse, facilities, and traditions that have made it one of the sport’s most celebrated venues. During Breeders’ Cup week, morning tours will be offered Monday through Thursday. The Keeneland Track Kitchen is a morning highlight, and you don't have to be a horseman to enjoy the homestyle fare. In fact, you might find yourself sitting near a notable trainer, jockey or owner when you do. After breakfast, dive deeper into the sport’s rich history at the Keeneland Library, the world’s largest repository of Thoroughbred industry resources open to the public.
Near downtown, The Red Mile is the world's second oldest harness racing track and one of the hottest destinations for entertainment and gaming. The venue blends equine tradition with modern entertainment, offering live racing, dining, events, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Explore The Red Mile to experience another side of Lexington’s rich horse culture and discover a historic gathering place where racing heritage meets today’s Bluegrass community.
No equine itinerary is complete without a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park. Set on 1,200 acres of picturesque Bluegrass farmland, the park celebrates the horse through interactive museums, galleries, live demonstrations, and special exhibits. Meet retired Thoroughbred champions in the Hall of Champions, enjoy horseback or pony rides, and discover why this one-of-a-kind attraction is a favorite for horse lovers of all ages.
Local Shopping
Pictured: L.V. Harkness
Whether you're searching for the perfect race-day outfit, an equestrian-inspired keepsake, or a one-of-a-kind Kentucky souvenir, Lexington’s shopping scene offers something for every style.
For men's fashion, explore locally owned shops like Stuart Mercer, Albert Couture, and Logan's of Lexington or Mac & Clay for sophisticated apparel and accessories. For women's fashion, visit The Fluffy Flamingo, Bella Rose, AJ’s Casuals, Omar + Elsie, and Morton James for standout pieces and accessories to complete your Breeders' Cup wardrobe.
Browse Peggy’s, Pomegranate, Syers Browning, Frances M, Mulberry & Lime, World's Apart, and L.V. Harkness for distinctive gifts, home décor, accessories, and thoughtfully curated finds. For jewelry, Maple & J and Savane Silver offer pieces that make memorable additions to any wardrobe.
Celebrate the city's horse culture at The Keeneland Shop, where you'll find apparel, home décor, artwork, and gifts inspired by Thoroughbred racing, or visit the Lexington Visitors Center to browse exclusive Blue Horse apparel, gifts, mugs, magnets, and other Lexington-inspired merchandise you won't find anywhere else.
Spend an afternoon exploring some of Lexington’s most popular shopping destinations. Fritz Farm offers more than 70 retailers and 25 restaurants, blending national favorites like Apple, lululemon, and Anthropologie with local boutiques for a full day of shopping and dining. Visit Lexington's lively neighborhoods and districts for even more locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, and unique finds.
Discover all of Lexington's shopping destinations on our shopping page.
Discover Bourbonland
Pictured: RD1 Spirits
The same Bluegrass landscape that produces some of the world's finest Thoroughbreds also produces some of the world's finest bourbon. Welcome to Bourbonland, where centuries of bourbon-making tradition, limestone-filtered water, and Kentucky craftsmanship come together to craft America's Native Spirit. With 18 distilleries in and around Lexington, you can easily add a bourbon experience to your Breeders' Cup itinerary, whether you have an afternoon to explore or simply want to raise a glass after the races.
Start at Fresh Bourbon and Lexington Brewing and Distilling Co., one of the few joint brewing and distilling operations in the world. Castle & Key Distillery pairs beautifully restored grounds with award-winning spirits, while nearby The Stave is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or bourbon cocktail. Bluegrass Distillers in Midway offers another opportunity to taste Kentucky's bourbon tradition. For a longer excursion, Kentucky Bourbon Trail destinations such as Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, and Buffalo Trace Distillery are all within about 45 minutes of Lexington.
Make time for the Distillery District, where Lexington's bourbon heritage meets a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Tour the historic James E. Pepper Distillery, Barrel House Distilling Co., and Dark Arts Whiskey House, then continue to The Commons, Lexington's newest entertainment district, for a tour at RD1 Spirits, a show at The Rail, and local dining and Kentucky craft beer at Country Boy Brewing.
Lexington's bourbon scene offers plenty of places to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail. Sip at Georgie’s, Bourbon on Rye, Bluegrass Tavern, Bar Ona, and Harvey's, where impressive bourbon selections and inviting atmospheres set the stage for a memorable evening. For something more intimate, step into Lexington's speakeasy-style cocktail lounges, including Trifecta: Glass - Art - Lounge in the Warehouse Block and Constitution, near Le Deauville, a beloved French restaurant known for its classic cuisine. After your cocktail, continue exploring Lexington's dining scene, from French fare to Southern favorites and everything in between.
Many distillery tours require reservations and can fill quickly during Breeders' Cup Week, so book ahead if you'd like to visit a specific distillery. Or, explore Bourbonland at your own pace with the free Bourbonland Pass, which makes it easy to discover participating distilleries, bars, and bourbon experiences throughout Lexington and the Bluegrass Region.
For more bourbon inspiration, visit our Bourbonland page.
Get A Taste of Lexington
Pictured: Dining at Granddam in The Manchester Hotel
Recently named the #6 Best Food City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, Lexington has earned a reputation as one of the country's premier culinary destinations. From refined Southern cuisine to globally inspired flavors, the city's vibrant restaurant scene offers memorable dining experiences well beyond race day.
Celebrate a day at Keeneland with dinner at Dudley’s, a longtime Lexington favorite known for its rooftop dining and sophisticated atmosphere, or reserve a table at Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse, home to exceptional steaks, impeccable service, and the Breeders' Cup Room. Carson's offers an upscale atmosphere and inventive menu with locations downtown and in Hamburg. Inside The Manchester, savor reimagined Bluegrass cuisine and craft cocktails at Granddam, then head upstairs to Lost Palm, a rooftop tiki bar inspired by 1960s South Florida racing. Other standout options include contemporary Mediterranean cuisine at Mileta, refined Italian fare at ItalX, elevated cuisine and local wines at The V at The Vine, classic Italian-American dishes at Frank & Dino’s, a farm-to-table experience at Millstone, and seasonal fare at The Melroy.
Beyond fine dining, experience the restaurants that give Lexington its distinctive character. Holly Hill, the family of restaurants from James Beard-recognized chef Ouita Michel, includes Honeywood, Windy Corner Market, and Wallace Station, offering everything from thoughtful Southern cuisine to legendary sandwiches and scenic horse country dining. Sample vibrant Latin-inspired cuisine at Corto Lima, authentic Kentucky comfort food at Ramsey’s Diner, award-winning barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse, or expertly prepared sushi and sashimi at Omakase. For a sweet finish, don't miss Martine's Pastries' famous butter cake, available at the bakery and at Keeneland.
Reservations at many of the city's restaurants are highly recommended and should be made well in advance for Breeders' Cup Week. For even more dining inspiration, visit our restaurant page for a complete look at Lexington's restaurants, breweries, and culinary experiences.
Explore Local Sights and Scenes
Pictured: Gratz Park
There's more to discover in Lexington beyond the track, from storied landmarks and vibrant arts venues to the scenic landscapes that define the Bluegrass.
Step back in time at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, and the Mary Todd Lincoln House, where the stories of two of Kentucky's most influential figures come to life. Downtown, stroll through Gratz Park, one of Lexington's oldest neighborhoods, or discover the city's rich past on the Historic Downtown Lexington Walking Tour or African American Heritage Tour.
Catch a performance at the Lexington Opera House, one of downtown's architectural gems, or enjoy live music at The Burl, Manchester Music Hall, or The Rail. For the latest performances and events happening during Breeders' Cup Week, check out our Calendar of Events.
Browse local galleries like the Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, LexArts, ArtHouse Kentucky, and Cross Gate Gallery, where fine art celebrates sporting traditions and equestrian heritage. As you explore downtown, keep an eye out for Lexington's Hidden Horses, then head to Gatton Park to snap a photo with Big Lex, the city's larger-than-life blue horse.
Take a leisurely drive along the picturesque Old Frankfort Pike Scenic Byway, where rolling Bluegrass pastures, iconic stone fences, and world-renowned horse farms create one of Kentucky's most breathtaking landscapes. For a relaxing escape, stroll the gardens and walking trails at The Arboretum, the State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.
Celebrate Breeders' Cup Week
Pictured: 2022 Breeders' Cup Festival
Breeders’ Cup week is a chance to experience the best of Lexington beyond the races. The Breeders’ Cup Festival brings a diverse lineup of music, culinary events, art, equine experiences, and community celebrations to venues throughout the city, offering visitors a taste of the culture and character of the Bluegrass.
From special events and live performances to opportunities to connect with Lexington’s equine and culinary traditions, the Festival adds even more to an already exciting week in the city. Visit the Breeders' Cup Festival website for the full lineup of events, dates, and locations.
Accessibility Resources
Pictured: LexRide Shuttle
Plan a more comfortable and inclusive Breeders' Cup experience with VisitLEX's accessibility resources, featuring information on accessible attractions, restaurants, transportation, and other visitor experiences throughout Lexington. Whether you're looking for places to visit, dine, or explore, these resources can help you plan your time in Lexington with confidence.
For a convenient way to get around, LexRide connects downtown Lexington with the Distillery District and the Warehouse Block, making it easy to visit restaurants, breweries, distilleries, shops, and entertainment venues throughout these popular districts. The ADA-compliant shuttle runs Thursday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight during its April through October season, with service every 12–15 minutes. Rides are free, and LexRide offers accessible boarding for visitors using mobility devices.
