Claiborne Farm Paris Kentucky
Home to racing legends like Secretariat, Claiborne Farm offers a glimpse into the prestigious world of Thoroughbred breeding and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Foal season, beautiful scenery
Claiborne Farm Paris Kentucky
Best Time
Foal season, beautiful scenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to racing legends like Secretariat, Claiborne Farm offers a glimpse into the prestigious world of Thoroughbred breeding and history.
"An unforgettable experience meeting prestigious stallions and learning about horse racing history."
Peppermints for the Mares
Bring peppermints to feed the mares and foals – a sweet interaction! :candy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a good amount of walking on the farm grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secretariat's Final Resting Place
Cemetery
Pay respects to the legendary 'Big Red,' the 1973 Triple Crown winner, buried on the farm.
Elite Thoroughbred Stallions
Stallion Barn
Get up close to magnificent breeding stallions, some of the most prestigious in racing history.
Historic Farm Grounds
Throughout the farm
Explore the immaculately kept grounds of a farm that has produced six Triple Crown winners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Choose the Right Tour for You
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Peppermints for the Mares
Bring peppermints to feed the mares and foals – a sweet interaction! :candy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a good amount of walking on the farm grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and love to share insights. :speech_balloon:
Consider a Second Tour
Some visitors return for a different tour to see stallions or foals. :repeat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Peppermints for the Mares
Bring peppermints to feed the mares and foals – a sweet interaction! :candy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a good amount of walking on the farm grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Ask Your Guide Questions
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and love to share insights. :speech_balloon:
Consider a Second Tour
Some visitors return for a different tour to see stallions or foals. :repeat:
Gift Shop Treasures
Don't miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs and horse-themed items. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Claiborne Farm for its incredible history, majestic stallions, and the serene beauty of its grounds. The knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Rodeo and John, are frequently highlighted for enhancing the experience with personal stories and insights. While some find the tour prices a bit high, most agree the unique opportunity to interact with legendary horses and learn about the legacy of Thoroughbred racing makes it a worthwhile visit.
"We took the All Farm Shuttle Tour initially, but returned the next day to take the Visit Claiborne Farm tour so we could see the stallions. Be aware that the shuttle tour does not include the stallion barn; however, you may get to see War Front if he is turned out while you are there. Mary was our guide on the shuttle tour. She had a great personality and did an excellent job telling us about the history of the farm and info about the grounds. We were able to stop several times to feed peppermints to the mares and pet them and their foals. I cannot recall our stallion barn guide’s name, but he was great as well. Very knowledgeable about the horses. He brought out War of Will and War Front and allowed us to pet them. We also were able to see some of the others in the barn and feed peppermints. Both tours ended with a discussion in the cemetery where Secretariat and several others are buried. I will say all the people, including the associate in the gift shop, were very friendly and welcoming. Good vibes here!"
Cheryl
"What a wonderful experience to be able to not only see this beautiful, famous, home of the infamous Secretariat and historical farm but to be able to see and interact with some of the worlds most prestigious and decorated stallions was nothing short of amazing! We have already made reservations to return in the spring during foal season! John, the tour guide was very knowledgeable, answering any and all of our questions and a pleasure to be with on his tour.
Just finished and second tour... this one was a 90-minute tour of the farm to see the new babies. What a wonderful experience!"
Bob Borton
"My brother and I had a fun time visiting Claiborne’s and meeting all of the retired racehorses that we left feeling like we know more about racehorses now than when we did when we first entered. Our tour guide was very nice and knowledgeable about all of the racehorses that were on the farm and we learned that there was so much more that went behind the scenes from the breeding program to the number of shares a racehorse may have that the average spectator just doesn’t really take the time to think about. I only gave 4 stars because I wished the tour was a little longer and that we could explored more grounds cause this place was massive but given that there is another tour package that this farm offers with it being on the shuttle we hope that there will be another opportunity for us to come back again so that we could really get a glimpse of the property. But overall it’s a very beautiful farm and the horses are obviously well taken care of, so even if the prices are a little high it’s understandable cause the cost to maintain the property and take care of these horses are in no way cheap."
Maggie P.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Claiborne Farm is located in Paris, Kentucky. It's best accessed by car. From Lexington, take US-27 N for about 20 miles. The farm is well-signposted. Many visitors combine a trip to Claiborne Farm with other horse farms in the Bluegrass region.
Public transportation options directly to Claiborne Farm are limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services from nearby cities like Lexington is the most common way to visit.
Claiborne Farm offers guided tours that are the primary way to explore. These tours take you to key areas like the stallion barn and Secretariat's grave.
Access to most of the farm is restricted to guided tours. You cannot freely drive your own vehicle around the property.
Claiborne Farm is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Lexington, Kentucky, making it a popular day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary depending on the type of tour and season. It's recommended to check the official Claiborne Farm website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, as they can be a bit high but are understandable given the maintenance costs.
Yes, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as tours can sell out.
Tour availability and hours can vary. It's best to consult the official Claiborne Farm website for their current schedule and to book your preferred time slot.
Yes, Claiborne Farm typically offers different tour options, such as the 'Visit Claiborne Farm' tour focusing on stallions and historic sites, and potentially shuttle tours for broader farm views.
No, access to the farm for visitors is generally limited to scheduled guided tours. You cannot simply wander the grounds without a booked tour.
🎫 🐎 Onsite Experience
Tours typically include visits to the stallion barn to see elite breeding horses, the cemetery where Secretariat and other legends are buried, and beautiful, historic farm grounds. You might also see mares and foals.
During tours, you may have opportunities to pet mares and foals, and sometimes even elite stallions like War Front or War of Will, especially if they are turned out. Feeding peppermints to mares and foals is a popular activity.
Yes, families often enjoy the experience, especially seeing the horses up close. The tours are educational and engaging for various ages.
Claiborne Farm is one of the most historic and successful Thoroughbred farms in the world, founded in 1910. It has produced six Triple Crown winners and is the birthplace of legends like Seabiscuit and Ruffian.
Yes, Claiborne Farm has facilities including restrooms and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the tours, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide. Capturing the majestic stallions and historic scenery is a must!
The stallion barn, Secretariat's grave, and the rolling green pastures offer iconic photo opportunities. The overall landscape of the farm is incredibly picturesque.
Drone usage is typically restricted at private farms like Claiborne to ensure the safety and well-being of the horses. Always check their specific policies.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both close-ups of horses and wider farm landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for stallion shots if they are at a distance.
While general photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas, especially near the horses, to avoid startling them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Book tours in advance, especially during school holidays. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though there is a gift shop. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking. The cemetery visit, while somber, can be a good lesson in history and legacy.
🐎 Horse Racing Enthusiasts
Don't miss: Visiting Secretariat's grave is a pilgrimage. Take the time to absorb the stories shared by knowledgeable guides about the farm's illustrious past and its ongoing contribution to the sport. Consider booking a tour that specifically focuses on stallions if that's your primary interest.
📸 Photography Buffs
Photography tips: Bring a versatile lens to capture both wide landscapes and close-ups of the horses. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Be mindful of your guide's instructions regarding photography, especially concerning flash near the animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Secretariat
+1Secretariat's impact on horse racing is immeasurable, and his presence at Claiborne Farm cemented the farm's status as a sanctuary for equine legends. The farm continues to breed and raise champions, carrying on the tradition of excellence that Secretariat embodied. Standing near his grave, one can't help but feel the weight of history and the enduring spirit of this incredible animal.
Meeting the Stallions
Horses like War Front and War of Will are frequently mentioned as stars visitors might encounter. The guides are adept at explaining the nuances of breeding and the immense value these horses bring to the sport. It's an awe-inspiring experience to be in the presence of such powerful and pedigreed athletes, understanding their role in producing the next generation of champions.
A Glimpse into Thoroughbred Breeding
Visitors learn about the farm's long history of success, having produced six Triple Crown winners and numerous other champions. The guides, often with personal experience in the industry, share fascinating details about the breeding program, the care of mares and foals, and the journey from birth to the racetrack. It’s an educational experience that deepens appreciation for the sport.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit