Itineraries Guide to the Keeneland Fall Meet September 22, 2025 The Keeneland Fall Meet is one of the most time honored traditions here in Central Kentucky. Whether you’re a Keeneland regular or checking out this National Historic Landmark for the very first time, racing at Keeneland is a special experience. Make the most of your day at the races with our Guide to the Keeneland Fall Meet! P.S. Every guest who purchases a ticket for a Horse Country tour in October will receive a free general admission ticket for a day at the races, for each guest in their party. Tickets will be distributed beginning in late September. Rise and Shine Even if you’re not a morning person, a morning at the track is worth the early alarm and a little extra caffeine to start the day. Training takes place at Keeneland from 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., seven days a week. Each morning, the ‘backside’, or barn area, of Keeneland, comes alive before dawn. Horses will take to the track in preparation for their next race, as just like any other athlete, they have a consistent workout routine to stay in tip-top shape. While at Keeneland for morning training, you might see horses out for a casual jog, or completing a more serious ‘breeze’ that mimics the speed of a race more closely. Be on the lookout for Keeneland team members, who are typically on site each morning to answer questions and provide some insider information about the horses you’re seeing. Our recommendation? Get to Keeneland around 8am to enjoy breakfast at the Track Kitchen, beloved by locals for its home-style, Southern meals. You might even see some of racing’s most famous jockeys, owners and trainers. After you’re done eating, drive to the Keeneland Welcome Center, where you can enter the grandstand to watch morning training until 10 a.m. or so. Race Day ‘Musts’ On a race day at Keeneland, there are so many things to see, enjoy and experience. After arriving at the track, we recommend picking up a race day program and heading to the paddock to see the horses as they are saddled before the race. You’ll have a chance to get a good look at each of the contenders before they head to the track! Keeneland has great options for a meal or snack while you’re at the races, from the famed Keeneland burgoo to sweet treats like bread pudding, ice cream and more. Carve out some time in your day to enjoy some of these great bites while you’re at the races. If you’re a cocktail connoisseur, we recommend some of Keeneland signature beverages, the Keeneland Breeze or the Tito’s Trifecta. Just be sure to enjoy responsibly! While you’re there, be sure to soak in the tradition and excitement of a day at Keeneland. This special place is a National Historic Landmark and has been home to some important moments in Kentucky’s racing and cultural history. Before you leave, stop by the Keeneland store for a special memento of your time at the track. From beautiful race day outfits to homegoods that represent the best of the Bluegrass, there’s something for everyone! Our recommendation? Grab a few friends and start a show parlay! Put in a few dollars and wager on a horse each race to show, using your winnings to bet on the next race. Check in with a BETologist, Keeneland’s resident wagering experts, for handicapping tips. Go Behind-the-Scenes Keeneland offers a variety of experiences that offer a unique look into the world of Thoroughbred racing. The Keeneland Morning Works tour, Keeneland Backstretch tour and Behind-the-Scenes Racing tour are offered during the morning, at various times. These tours are best for guests who are interested in learning more about the history of Keeneland and its impact on the international Thoroughbred racing and sales stages, all while getting an insider’s look at this famed racecourse. The Keeneland Owner’s Experience is offered on select races days, and is truly a one of a kind experience. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the races like a racehorse owner does, including visits to the paddock, walking ring, winner’s circle, and more! Our recommendation? Take a tour of Keeneland for a unique experience unlike any other. You’ll have the chance to visit exclusive areas and hear fascinating stories from your expert guide. Explore Lexington, Kentucky Whether you’re a Lexington local or traveling to the area to attend the races, fall is a special time to visit and experience the best of what the region has to offer. Kentucky is most well known for two things – horses and bourbon – both of which are prominent here in the greater Lexington area. We’re proud to partner with 28 horse farms and facilities who have opened their gates to tour guests. If you’ve ever wanted to meet a Kentucky Derby winner, feed carrots to future champions or just learn about the intriguing world of horses, Horse Country is here to connect you with the perfect experience. Our friends at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail work with dozens of bourbon distilleries around the state that offer tours and special experiences – many of which are available daily. For both horse farm and bourbon tours, we recommend planning ahead & booking early to ensure the best availability! Lexington is also home to a great restaurant scene, from upscale steakhouses to hole-in-the-wall spots. VisitLex is an incredible resource to help you find your ideal eatery, from international cuisine to local spots, food trucks and more. If you’re interested in learning even more abuot Lexington’s food culture, and history, Bites of the Bluegrass offers incredible walking food tours in downtown. If a day spent outdoors on a hiking trail is more up your alley, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington is a great escape located not too far out of town. Take a drive east to Red River Gorge to spend the day exploring some of Kentucky’s most famed natural wonders including Natural Bridge State Park.
