International Museum of the Horse
A global journey through equine history, showcasing the profound impact of horses on civilizations worldwide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
International Museum of the Horse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A global journey through equine history, showcasing the profound impact of horses on civilizations worldwide.
"Impressively comprehensive and much better than I expected, with high-quality exhibits on all sorts of horsey subjects."
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits.
🎟️ Multi-day ticket value
Your ticket often includes other Horse Park attractions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arabian Horse Exhibit
Dedicated 2-story exhibit
An elegant and informative journey celebrating the history and significance of the Arabian horse, with Saudi Arabian sponsorship.
Uma Musume Exhibit
Uma no Kokoro exhibit
Discover accolades won by Umamusume horses, with rare items seen outside of Japan. A unique blend of anime and equestrian history.
Hall of Champions
Kentucky Horse Park
Meet and learn about legendary horses. A chance to connect with equine champions, even if you arrive too late for other exhibits.
Video Projector Display of Arabian Horses
Main exhibit areas
A cool and engaging visual presentation showcasing Arabian horses, a favorite for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the International Museum of the Horse
Beyond the Exhibits: Horse Park Integration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits.
🎟️ Multi-day ticket value
Your ticket often includes other Horse Park attractions.
🐎 See live horses
Combine your visit with the Hall of Champions or Kids Barn.
✨ Admire the displays
Exhibits are beautifully curated and informative.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits.
🎟️ Multi-day ticket value
Your ticket often includes other Horse Park attractions.
🐎 See live horses
Combine your visit with the Hall of Champions or Kids Barn.
✨ Admire the displays
Exhibits are beautifully curated and informative.
🇯🇵 Unique anime crossover
Don't miss the special Uma Musume exhibit! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the International Museum of the Horse for its comprehensive and well-curated exhibits, offering a deep dive into equine history and global impact. Many highlight the beautiful Arabian Horse exhibit and the unique Umamusume display. While generally well-received, some reviews mention a perceived 'woke' tone in certain presentations.
"Absolutely loved our visit to the Horse Museum inside Kentucky Horse Park! 🐎
This place is more than just a museum—it’s a journey through time with horses. So many fascinating stories about how horses were involved in different wars, and we learned a lot about the types of horses, their races, accessories, and even the captains who rode them.
One of the highlights? The section about the Arabian horse—so beautifully done! 🇸🇦 It made me proud to see credit given to Saudi Arabia for sponsoring that part. It was elegant, informative, and full of heart.
The decoration, the displays, and the collection of items were just wow.✨ Every corner had something to admire or read. Whether it’s the history of horses in the U.S., Arabia, or England, it truly felt like it was made for the whole world to enjoy. 🌍
We had such a wonderful time—highly recommend it if you’re into history, horses, or just looking for something meaningful and beautiful to experience. 📚💛"
MARYAM
"Very informative, truly international, one could spend several hours there. Nice that a ticket is good for two days annd includes the Saddle bred museum annd the polo matches. Only complaint is the heavy handed "woke"ness."
Laura Roden
"Impressively comprehensive and much better than I expected. The museum has lots of high quality exhibits on all sorts of horsey subjects from history to sport to literature.
I am not a big horse fan myself, but still had a good time and learned a few things. It’s definitely worth a few hours if you are visiting Lexington. It’s bigger than you would think and even the casual visitor could make a half a day out of the museum and surrounding park."
Dave Harlan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. You can drive and park at the park. Public transportation options may be limited, so check local transit schedules if you're not driving.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Kentucky Horse Park for visitors to the museum and other attractions.
Absolutely! The International Museum of the Horse is a fantastic indoor option, offering hours of exploration even on inclement weather days.
The museum is generally accessible, with wide pathways and elevators where needed. It's a good indoor option for families with young children.
The Kentucky Horse Park is easily accessible via major highways. Use GPS or a mapping service for the most direct route from your location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the museum is typically included with your Kentucky Horse Park ticket. It's recommended to check the official Kentucky Horse Park website for the most current pricing and any special offers.
Tickets for the Kentucky Horse Park, which include museum access, can usually be purchased online in advance through the official park website. This can save you time upon arrival.
Yes, a ticket to the Kentucky Horse Park often grants you access for two consecutive days, allowing you to explore the museum and other park attractions at your leisure.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, military personnel, or groups. Check the Kentucky Horse Park's website for details on any applicable discounts.
The museum's hours generally align with the Kentucky Horse Park's operating hours. It's best to verify the specific hours on the park's official website before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
🎫 🐎 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the dedicated Arabian Horse exhibit, the unique Uma Musume exhibit featuring accolades from Japan, and the Hall of Champions to see legendary horses. The video projector display of Arabian horses is also a highlight. +1
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly. However, if you're a dedicated horse enthusiast, you could easily spend longer.
While the museum itself focuses on exhibits, you can often see live horses at the adjacent Kentucky Horse Park, including in the Hall of Champions and Kids Barn.
Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits that can be interesting for children, especially those with an interest in horses. The Hall of Champions and Kids Barn at the park are also great for younger visitors.
The Uma Musume exhibit showcases accolades and items related to the popular Japanese media franchise about horse racing girls, featuring items rarely seen outside of Japan. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself may have limited concessions, but the Kentucky Horse Park offers various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, to satisfy your hunger.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum exhibits. However, you can usually find designated picnic areas within the Kentucky Horse Park.
The park offers a range of food choices, including quick snacks, sandwiches, and more substantial meals. Options can vary, so it's good to check the park's current offerings.
While specific menus can change, most dining facilities at larger attractions like the Horse Park aim to offer a variety of options, including vegetarian choices. It's advisable to inquire directly at the dining venue.
Yes, the Kentucky Horse Park has several areas suitable for picnics, allowing you to enjoy your own food amidst the scenic surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use inside the museum, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always look for signage.
The Arabian Horse exhibit, with its elegant displays, and the Uma Musume exhibit, with its unique memorabilia, are popular spots for photos. The Hall of Champions also offers great opportunities.
Mornings tend to have softer lighting and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. However, the exhibits are well-lit throughout the day.
Professional photography or videography may require special permits or advance arrangements. It's best to contact the museum or Kentucky Horse Park administration for their policies.
Focus on the intricate details of the artifacts, the scale of the horse models, and the storytelling within the exhibits. Capturing the blend of history and culture is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Even on a day with iffy weather, the museum is a great indoor option. The exhibits are generally well-lit and informative, and the Uma Musume exhibit might appeal to older children or teens familiar with the franchise. Planning for at least a few hours allows for a good balance between museum exploration and enjoying the live equine attractions at the park.
🐎 Equine Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The truly international scope of the museum, with dedicated sections on breeds and their global significance, is a major draw. The Arabian Horse exhibit is particularly lauded for its elegance and depth. Furthermore, the unique Umamusume exhibit offers a contemporary twist, showcasing a fascinating intersection of pop culture and equestrian heritage.
+1✈️ Day-Trippers from Lexington
Combine your visit with a stroll through the park to see live horses, especially in the Hall of Champions. The museum offers a highly informative and entertaining experience that provides a great overview of equine history and its impact on culture, making it a worthwhile excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Global Reach of Equine History
This commitment to a worldwide view extends to showcasing how horses have impacted transportation, agriculture, warfare, and sport across continents. The displays are thoughtfully arranged, featuring a collection of art, artifacts, and detailed information that highlights the enduring bond between humans and these magnificent creatures. It's an educational journey that deepens appreciation for the sheer beauty and impact of horses on civilization.
For those interested in unique cultural intersections, the museum also features a special exhibit dedicated to Umamusume, a popular Japanese media franchise. This exhibit brings together accolades and memorabilia from Umamusume horses, offering a fascinating glimpse into how anime and equestrian culture can converge. It's a testament to the museum's dedication to showcasing the diverse and evolving role of horses in human society, both historically and in contemporary pop culture.
Experiencing the Horse Park Connection
While the museum offers a deep dive into equine history, the park provides a more hands-on and visual encounter with horses. The Hall of Champions allows you to meet and learn about legendary equine athletes, and the Kids Barn offers a more interactive experience for younger visitors. Even if you arrive at the museum too late to see all the exhibits, you might still catch the horses being put out for the night, offering a memorable glimpse.
For those concerned about weather, the museum serves as an excellent indoor refuge. However, if the weather cooperates, the park's outdoor attractions, including various equestrian demonstrations and the chance to see different breeds, complement the museum's educational content beautifully. A ticket to the Horse Park often provides multi-day access, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in both the museum and the park's offerings without feeling rushed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit