Kentucky Horse Country

It's no secret that Kentucky is a mecca for horse racing fans, and no visit to Horse Country is complete without a stop at racing's most hallowed grounds, Churchill Downs. Located less than five miles from 21c Museum Hotel, the Twin Spires of this Louisville landmark are home to racing's finest. Each May since 1875, the Kentucky Derby – and the two-week Kentucky Derby Festival – draw hundreds of thousands of fans to witness the first jewel in the Triple Crown. Famously dubbed "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," the Derby is an event for the ages. But if you can't make it the first Saturday in May, don't fret: Churchill Downs welcomes race enthusiasts year-round, with live racing meets each spring and fall, and simulcast wagering and guided tours available daily.

For those with some time to spare, Keeneland Race Course, a National Historic Landmark outside of Lexington, is home to the most prestigious horse sales in the world and a must-see Kentucky attraction. Merging authentic Southern elegance with the excitement of racing, a visit to Keeneland is steeped in Kentucky tradition. From the burgoo to the bugle call to the Bourbon, Keeneland showcases the art of hospitality. Live racing is offered for three weeks in April and three weeks in October, but visitors are welcome year-round. Spend a morning or afternoon at this picturesque landmark and you’ll understand why horse racing is called "the sport of kings."

While in Lexington, make time to visit the Kentucky Horse Park, the site of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010. This will mark the first time this international event has been hosted outside of Europe. 21c Museum Hotel, just more than an hour's drive from the Kentucky Horse Park, welcomes Equestrian Games guests seeking hotel accommodations or event space in Louisville. Contact Karen Fuller at 502.217.6311 to learn more about Equestrian Games room availability or contact Megan Breier at 502.217.6374 to learn more about private event options.