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Derby Week Itinerary: Future Champions

Derby Week Itinerary: Next Generation of Champions

Nursery farm tours are special for a number of reasons, from the up close and personal interactions with mares and foals to learning all about the process of breeding and raising Thoroughbreds. One of the most exciting parts of meeting foals is that the young horse you meet this year could go on to win the Kentucky Derby or another big race, plus, they’re a big fan of making new friends! Follow this itinerary for a guide to meeting mares and foals during Derby Week.

This itinerary is recommended for guests visiting on May 5 or 6.

Please note: this itinerary is a suggestion only and is based on a availability at the time of publishing. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and are available for purchase at www.visithorsecountry.com or by calling 859-963-1004. Tour availability is subject to change.


Gainsborough Farm

10am – 11:30am | Versailles, KY

Hop aboard an electric shuttle and cruise through a beautiful farm while learning about breeding and raising young Thoroughbreds, not just in Kentucky but around the world. Godolphin’s Gainsborough Farm is home to some of the best broodmares and has raised champions like multiple Breeder’s Cup winner Cody’s Wish.

Gainsborough Farm is offering public tours during Derby Week on May 1, 2 and 5 at 10am and 2pm, which can be booked by clicking here. Interested in visiting Gainsborough Farm outside of Derby Week? Click here to book a tour.

May we recommend… grabbing breakfast at the Keeneland Track Kitchen before or after your tour? Be sure to leave about 40 minutes for travel time between Gainsborough Farm and Denali Stud.

Denali Stud

1pm – 2pm | Paris, KY

Meet the next generation of Thoroughbred champions on a tour of Denali Stud, a lovely nursery farm that has raised top racehorses, including 2011 Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom. Guests will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these mommas and babies and learn about Thoroughbred breeding and sales.

Denali Stud is offering Derby Week tours on May 1 and 2, which can be booked by clicking here. Interested in visiting Denali Stud outside of Derby Week? Please click here.

Be sure to leave about 35 minutes for travel time between Denali Stud and Mill Ridge Farm.

Mill Ridge Farm

3:30pm – 5pm | Lexington, KY

This well-rounded experience features mares + foals, yearlings and stallions at this historic nursery farm, just down the road from Keeneland. Guests will learn the ins and outs of raising young horses for a career on the racetrack and get up close and personal to some of the equine residents.

Mill Ridge Farm is offering public tours during Derby Week at 11am, 2pm and 3:30pm, which can be booked by clicking here.