Keeneland Lexington KY

Lexington, Kentucky travel information

keeneland lexington kentucky

Keeneland Race Track – Lexington, KY

Keeneland in Lexington, KY offers some of the most exciting action in horse racing. Even if you do not gamble on the races, Keeneland is a great place to people watch, talk to locals, and spend a beautiful day with festivities.

There are meets two times a year – in April and October and draws a huge crowd. If you find yourself in Lexington on business during a Keeneland horse racing meet, be sure not to miss Kentucky at its finest!

Many people never even make it inside Keeneland on a beautiful day, choosing to wander around the 907 acre park or tailgating with food and drink in the grassy parking areas.

Some Interesting notes:

Keeneland takes pride in its traditions and was the last race track in the country to broadcast race action over its PA system. The racing scenes in the movie Seabiscuit were also filmed there for historical accuracy.

Keeneland Lexington KY Info

Entry at the door is typically only $3.00
The minimum bet is $2.00
Races begin around 1:00pm but people show up earlier to park and tailgate.
Races finish around 5:00pm – be prepared for some traffic!
Keeneland meets in the Spring and Fall, but all large races can be viewed via simulcast there.
The grounds at Keeneland are beautiful to explore and are open to the public.
Alcohol and food are available inside.
Races meet rain or shine (but everyone prefers shine!)
The doors open around

Keeneland is located directly across the street from Bluegrass Airport on Versailles Rd at the end of Man-o-war rd.

Traffic on the southwest end of Lexington (Harrodsburg Rd. and Versailles Rd.) can be horrific around 4:30 when people begin leaving the races – plan accordingly. Nearly all businesses and restaurants are affected during a Keeneland race as many people go out to eat afterward.

For a business outing, call 800-456-3412 for dining reservations.

More information can be found on the official website: http://www.keeneland.com

Keeneland Lexington Horse Sales

The Keeneland horse sales take place in Jan, April, July, and Sept. Many of the thoroughbreds sell for over a million dollars and this can be an interesting time to meet people in the equine business from all over the world. Try visiting McCarthy’s Irish Pub (see Lexington Nightlife) after a sale.

There is no dress code at Keeneland, however many people take the opportunity to dress nice for the horse racing events.

In the paddock area at Keeneland you will be able to see the race horses and jockeys up close between races as well as mingle with lots of visitors. Be sure to head to the paddock immediately after a race finishes.

If you are an early bird, on any day of the week you can visit Keeneland Lexington, KY early in the mornings and watch them walk and exercise the famous race horses.