Description

The Kentucky Horse Park is an equine theme park and competition facility celebrating mankinds relationship with the horse. Set on more than 1,200 acres in the heart of Kentucky's famous Bluegrass region, the park is home to approximately 50 different breeds of horses, at work and at play. In addition to regular programs and presentations, the park hosts the most comprehensive schedule of equestrian events in the country.

Geography:

The Kentucky Horse Park is an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet. The park is home to the National Horse Center, which comprises more than 30 national and regional equine organizations. At the park entrance, visitors are welcomed by the majestic Man o' War Memorial. One of the greatest race horses to ever live, Man o' War symbolizes the courage, strength, and magnificence of all horses. From March 15 through October 31, the park is open seven days a week. Admission includes the International Museum of the Horse--a Smithsonian Affiliate--and the American Saddlebred Museum. The Visitor Information Center provides material detailing the park's attractions and special events.

Recreation:

Steeplechasing, horse shows, carriage driving competitions, polo, art and crafts fairs, and dog shows are some of the many activities which keep the park a lively and ever-changing attraction. See the film "Thou Shalt Fly Without Wings" in the Visitors Center theater for an educational and exciting introduction to the park. Visit the museums, The International Museum of the Horse, the largest of its kind in the world, and The American Saddlebred Museum. The Ferrier Shop blacksmith exhibits his iron-pounding craft. Visitors can see 24 of the park's nearly 50 breeds of horses in the Breeds Barn, watch the twice daily Parade of Breeds March-October, see champion horses in the parks Hall of Champions, and visit the horses that pull the park's tour trolleys in the Draft Horse Barn. Children's pony rides and trail rides on horseback take visitors through the countryside around the park.

Facilities:

One of America's finest resort campgrounds, the Kentucky Horse Park Campground, has 260 campsites with electrical and water hookups, paved pads, fire rings, and picnic tables. A full-service facility, the campground has a grocery store and gift shop, two bathhouses with modern conveniences, laundromats, and two dump stations. Planned recreational activities, lighted tennis and basketball courts, a swimming pool, playgrounds, games of horseshoes and croquet, and square-dancing in the recreation pavilion are just a few of the recreation choices. Several rental facilities including a group pavilion and a lounge are available for group events.