“…We will sing one song for my old Kentucky home, For the old Kentucky home far away.”
Nothing compares to hitting the open road where black board fences line almost every mile and hills roll ever gently over the horizon. All equestrians and horse lovers know of it and all long to be there. Today I am going to share with you some wonderful treasures in the beautiful bluegrass state’s very own Louisville, KY.
Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum
We start with the most well known which, of course, is Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum. These places are flooded in history and have many attractions, tours and exhibits. Did you know they have 8 types of tours available for all kinds of visitors seeking to learn something new? Their accommodating tours include many options, for example, if you struggle to be on your feet all day, they have golf cart tours that take you around the track as well as van tours. Of course there are a couple different walking tours as well including their “Bourbon, Bridles and The Best of Louisville Tour“, the “Horses and Haunts Tour” and a “Twilight Tour”. Of course the most exciting time to go would be on derby day in May if you want to actually experience the horse racing culture. Not to mention ladies, a chance to wear an exquisite and probably colossal hat.
“The Finish Line” gift shop
Speaking of that highborn headgear… After you go on a tour you can head to The Finish Line gift shop to purchase one for yourself. They also keep anything from gifts and KY Derby “merch” but also incredibly classic and trendy clothes for race day such as a bowtie for him and of course ladies, that BIG hat for you. Oh, and do not forget to try a Mint Mojito at one of the tracks many lounges.
Kentucky Expo Center & World Championship Horse Show
You can’t miss the state fair as you drive right by it on the highway. Besides horses there are so many events and concerts that happen here year round. This is such a great place to check into when passing through town with the family. Luckily for us horse lovers it also houses several big horse shows annually, most notably the World Championship Horse Show, a prestigious Saddlebred event. This event happens at the same time as the state fair and there is never a dull moment. Over 2,000 horses compete for more than $1 million in prizes and awards. Also important to know AQHA and AMHA also host large shows here annually.
Maple Hill Manor Bed and Breakfast, Springfield, KY
Just a little over an hour from both Louisville and Lexington(which we will talk about in another post) you can experience the true south. This Greek Revival Plantation Home was once used as a Confederate encampment and a Union field hospital during the civil war. Flooded with beauty and history, this bed and breakfast is a wonderful place to stay and relax, eat elegant breakfast and also enjoy watching alpacas play in the rolling fields with of course, black board fence. For extra fun you can hit up the Jim Beam American Still house or Forest Edge Winery on your way in… as they are right off of the highway when you are coming from Louisville. This is one of the few wineries in the area that ships their grapes from OR and CA which are well known for their regions ability to grow incredible grapes due to their geographic location.
Revelry Gallery, Louisville, KY
This seriously adorable boutique caught my eye browsing the internet one day and I had to share it with you. Though it is not an equine shop, they do often carry horsey art and so much more. Just take a look for yourself, I know you are going to get inspired. I could find so much inspiration for color and accessories to utilize in photo shoots! Maybe you can too! Check out this Bridle Leather Wrap Bracelet! A local Louisville resident reviews on the fb page “By far the best boutique in Louisville. More talent in one place than anywhere in the city. Gifts for anyone and everyone for any occasion.”
So many places to check out! Let us know your favorite places to visit in Louisville, Kentucky by commenting on this post!
