History Horse Farm Tours for History Lovers June 19, 2025 Horse farm tours in Kentucky have a little bit of something for everyone – from horse lovers to photographers, nature enthusiasts to history buffs, and those who love a good story. Each farm has a unique story, though some stand out when it comes to their rich history and impact on Kentucky’s equine industry and beyond. From famed stallions who built the horse industry in the Bluegrass to tales of America’s early days passed down by generations of family members who have maintained the land, the following farms are well known for their fascinating past, while still playing a major part in Kentucky’s modern Thoroughbred industry. These tours are great for those who have a passion for history, or are just interested in learning more about the role that horses and horse farms have played in the growth of Kentucky and the United States. If you’re looking for additional guidance in planning your visit, our Concierge team is here to provide insight on places to visit, stay and explore in Central Kentucky. We can be reached at [email protected] or (859) 963-1004. Airdrie Stud Midway, Kentucky Once home to the famed stallion Lexington, Airdrie Stud’s current equine residents include Kentucky Derby winner Mage and others. Airdrie Stud consists of 2,500+ acres along Old Frankfort Pike in Midway, Kentucky. This property includes the former Woodburn Stud, which once stood the immortal sire Lexington and four 19th century Kentucky Derby winners. Many consider Woodburn Stud to be the birthplace of Kentucky’s modern Thoroughbred industry. While visiting Airdrie Stud, you’ll have a chance to learn more about this storied history, and how it has set a strong foundation for the future of the farm. Book a Tour Keeneland Racecourse Lexington, Kentucky Designated as a National Historic Landmark, Keeneland Racecourse is a must-see location for any history buff visiting Kentucky. This world-famous racetrack was founded in 1936 with a goal of hosting horse racing as it was meant to be. On a visit to Keeneland, you’ll learn about the history of the track and its role in the development and growth of the city of Lexington and the Bluegrass region as a whole. After your tour, we highly recommend visiting the Keeneland Library, the world’s largest repository of the Thoroughbred industry that is open to the public. Book a Tour McPeek Racing at Magdelana Farm Lexington, Kentucky Magdalena Farm’s recorded history begins just after the Revolutionary War, and was passed down through several generations of the family of Magdalena Shely, the namesake of the property. Magdalena Farm was one of the first commercial stallion businesses, and stood the likes of Kentucky Derby winners and Horse of the Year honorees. Today, the farm is owned and operated by Thoroughbred racehorse trainer Kenny McPeek, who has trained countless top horses including Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan. When visiting McPeek Racing at Magdalena Farm, you’ll see horses of all ages, from foals to racehorses to broodmares, and take a look back at the incredible history of the farm. Book a Tour Mill Ridge Farm Lexington, Kentucky The history of Mill Ridge is deeply intertwined with the story of Keeneland and Lexington. The farm was founded by Alice Chandler in 1962, after the passing of her father Hal Price Headley, an influential horseman and a co-founder of Keeneland. A number of champion racehorses have been born or raised on the farm, drawing the attention of many international competitors including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. When visiting Mill Ridge Farm, you’ll learn more about this rich history, and have a chance to get up close and personal with mares, foals and meet the three stallions that reside at the farm. Book a Tour Runnymede Farm Paris, Kentucky Runnymede Farm has played a large role in Kentucky’s Thoroughbred industry since the early days of the Commonwealth. The farm has been passed down through generations of the Clay family, from its founding in 1867 by Colonel Ezekiel Clay to its modern-day ownership by Brutus Clay III, and is widely recognized as the oldest continuously-operated Thoroughbred breeding farm in Kentucky. Many champion racehorses have grown up on these historic pastures, including Kentucky Derby winner Mage, Belmont Stakes winner Dornoch and others. On a visit to Runnymede Farm, you’ll meet future racehorses and see historic sites that date back to 1700’s. Book a Tour
