Visiting Keeneland: Your Guide to Racing in the Bluegrass
Partners coming to Lexington for live racing are headed in the right direction for a truly special experience. Few racetracks in the world can match Keeneland’s combination of scenic beauty, modern amenities, outstanding food, and top-tier racing.
If this is your first visit, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the grounds ahead of time—or better yet, booking a tour. Keeneland’s layout is easy to navigate once you arrive, but a little preparation goes a long way in maximizing your day.
Keeneland Plan Your Day at the Races Page
Planning Your Visit
If you have a horse running, reach out to Danielle for assistance with tickets. Planning a visit just for fun? Be sure to explore ticket options online—race days often sell out, so purchasing in advance is strongly recommended.
A few key tips to keep in mind:
- Keeneland is cashless at the gate. Same-day tickets (if available) can be purchased at the Welcome Center near the Grandstand South Entrance.
- Children under 12 do not require a ticket.
- Dining tickets include general admission, so there is no need to purchase both.
What’s New at Keeneland
If you haven’t been to Keeneland recently, you’ll notice some exciting additions debuting this meet. The centerpiece is the brand-new Paddock Building, part of the largest capital project in Keeneland’s history.
This multi-level space stretches along the paddock and walking ring and is designed to bring fans closer than ever to the horses, jockeys, and pre-race experience. From expanded viewing areas to new dining concepts and hospitality spaces, the upgrades blend Keeneland tradition with modern comfort.
New hospitality venues include the 1936 Room, Sycamore Room, and Dogwood Room, each offering a unique race-day experience—from elevated dining to more relaxed settings, all with premium views of the paddock.
One of the biggest changes is access—fans can now experience the paddock in a much more immersive way, from watching horses saddle to seeing jockeys prepare and even post-race celebrations up close.
Dress Code by Area
- General Admission / Reserved Grandstand / Equestrian Room: Casual
- Paddock Building (1936 Room, Sycamore Room, Dogwood Room): Business casual recommended. Collared shirts, dresses, and slacks are typical. Denim and athletic attire are generally discouraged.
- Phoenix Room: Business casual (no denim or athletic wear)
- Lexington/Kentucky Room and Clubhouse: Business formal (coat, tie, dress shoes; no denim or athletic wear)
While many areas of Keeneland remain relaxed, the overall atmosphere leans toward polished and traditional—especially in premium hospitality spaces. When in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Parking
Licensed owners with a horse running that day can access Gate 2 parking via Versailles Road. Just make sure to bring your license badge and be ready to show it to attendants.
To round out your trip, Keeneland also happens to sit in the middle of some of the Bluegrass region’s best dining, bourbon, horse country, and shopping destinations.
Where to Eat: The Lexington “Superfecta”
Terry Finley refers to this lineup as a Lexington restaurant “superfecta”—and it’s hard to argue:
- Malone’s Steakhouse – A Lexington staple with multiple locations, including one just minutes from Keeneland.
- Tony’s – Located downtown across from Rupp Arena; don’t skip the crème brûlée.
- Dudley’s – A longtime favorite for the racing crowd after a day at the track.
- Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – A downtown destination with strong ties to the racing world.
Looking for something beyond the classic steakhouse scene? Lexington offers plenty of excellent alternatives.
- Italian: Frank & Dino’s, ItalX, or Giuseppe’s
- French: Le Deauville or La Folie
- Sushi: Blue Sushi or Omakase
Traveling with family or a group?
For a short drive, visit Midway and stop by Crittenden Rawlings.
Beyond the Track: Things to Do
History and Culture
Bourbon and Horse Country
For Bourbon Trail details, start here. We recommend Woodford Reserve, located along scenic Versailles Road.
Explore horse farms through Visit Horse Country.
Shopping and Experiences
Getting There
Where to Stay
- 21c Museum Hotel
- Courtyard Marriott
- Hilton Downtown
- Hyatt Regency
- Griffin Gate Marriott
- Marriott City Center
- Origin Hotel
- Staybridge Suites
For a more immersive stay, explore Airbnb options on local horse farms.
Plan Your Trip
We hope you enjoy your visit to the Bluegrass. There’s nothing quite like Keeneland in the spring or fall.
