11 Unforgettable Drives Through Kentucky’s Horse Country

Rolling hills, white-plank fences, and thoroughbreds grazing in emerald pastures, Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region is a picture-perfect paradise for road-trippers.

Cruising through horse country isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about soaking in the scenery, spotting champion racehorses, and feeling like you’ve stepped into a living postcard. If you’re a horse lover, history buff, or just someone who appreciates a good scenic drive, these routes deliver unforgettable moments.

1. Old Frankfort Pike (Lexington → Frankfort)

Winding through the heart of the Bluegrass, Old Frankfort Pike feels like a time machine set to “charming.” Stone walls older than your great-great-grandparents line the road, while horses graze lazily behind pristine white fences.

This route is a local favorite for good reason, it’s short, sweet, and packed with eye candy. Historic estates dot the landscape, each one more impressive than the last.

Pack a camera because every bend offers another postcard-worthy shot. The drive takes about 30 minutes, but you’ll want to linger longer to soak it all in.

2. Paris Pike (Lexington → Paris)

Paris Pike earns its reputation as one of Kentucky’s most photogenic stretches of asphalt. Majestic oak trees form a natural canopy overhead, creating dappled shadows that dance across the pavement as you cruise along.

Horse farms here are the real deal, some have bred Kentucky Derby winners. You might spot foals frolicking or stallions strutting their stuff in the paddocks.

The 18-mile journey passes through Bourbon County, so yes, there’s a pun in there somewhere. Spring and fall are especially magical when the colors explode.

3. US-68 Scenic Byway (Bluegrass Region)

Officially designated as a scenic byway, US-68 takes its job seriously. This route stretches across multiple counties, serving up a smorgasbord of Bluegrass beauty that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.

Unlike some narrower roads, this byway offers wide-open views that let you see for miles. Historic barns, limestone fences, and endless pastures create a quintessentially Kentucky experience.

Plan for a leisurely afternoon drive with plenty of pull-off spots. Grab some local snacks before you go, this journey pairs perfectly with Kentucky-made treats.

4. Ironworks Pike (Lexington → Kentucky Horse Park)

Ironworks Pike is like the red carpet leading to horse heaven, aka the Kentucky Horse Park. Even if you’re not planning to stop at the park, the drive itself is worth the trip.

Training facilities and breeding farms flank both sides of the road, offering glimpses of future champions in the making. Early mornings are prime time to watch horses being exercised.

The road’s name hints at its industrial past, but today it’s all about equestrian elegance. It’s a straight shot that proves scenic doesn’t always mean winding.

5. Boone Creek Scenic Byway (Fayette & Clark Counties)

Named after Daniel Boone (because Kentucky never misses a chance to honor that guy), this byway follows Boone Creek through some seriously pretty countryside. Water and horses? That’s a winning combination right there.

The route meanders through both Fayette and Clark Counties, offering variety that keeps things interesting. Stone bridges and creekside views add extra charm to an already delightful drive.

Local tip: Drive slowly and watch for horses being led across the road. This is working farm country, not just scenery for tourists.

6. Pisgah Pike (Woodford County)

Woodford County knows horses, and Pisgah Pike shows off that expertise beautifully. This lesser-known gem offers intimate views of working horse farms without the tourist crowds.

The narrow, winding road demands your attention, but that’s part of its charm. Around every curve, another stunning vista appears, it’s like nature’s slideshow with a really good photographer.

Farms here tend to be family-owned operations with deep roots in the community. You’re seeing authentic Kentucky horse country, not a theme park version of it.

7. McCowans Ferry Road (Versailles → Salvisa area)

McCowans Ferry Road sounds like it should come with a banjo soundtrack, and honestly, that vibe isn’t far off. This back-road beauty connects Versailles to the Salvisa area through quintessentially rural Kentucky.

Expect fewer manicured estates and more working farms with character. Old tobacco barns stand alongside modern horse facilities, telling the story of Kentucky’s agricultural evolution.

The road dips and climbs gently, offering changing perspectives on the landscape. It’s perfect for folks who prefer authentic over polished.

8. Delaney Ferry Road (Near Versailles)

Delaney Ferry Road is the kind of place where you might not pass another car for miles and that’s exactly what makes it special. Tucked near Versailles, this route offers solitude and scenery in equal measure.

Horses here seem more relaxed, maybe because they get fewer gawkers. The farms feel personal and unpretentious, like they’re more concerned with raising champions than impressing tourists.

Don’t expect fancy signage or historical markers. Just roll down the windows, breathe in the bluegrass air, and enjoy the peace.

9. Versailles Road (US 60/US 62 Lexington → Versailles)

Versailles Road (locals say “Ver-SALES,” not “Ver-SIGH”) is the main artery connecting Lexington to Versailles, but don’t let its highway status fool you. This is prime horse country viewing territory with big-name farms lining the route.

The wider road means easier driving and better sightlines to those million-dollar horses. You’ll pass some of the most famous breeding operations in the world here.

Traffic can pick up during rush hour, so time your trip for mid-morning or early afternoon for maximum enjoyment.

10. Delong Road (Southeast Lexington Area)

Delong Road proves you don’t have to drive far from Lexington to find horse country charm. This southeast gem offers a quick escape into pastoral beauty without committing to an all-day excursion.

Smaller horse properties give the area a more accessible feel—these might be your neighbors’ farms rather than international breeding empires. The scale feels friendlier, more relatable.

Perfect for a sunset drive or a quick afternoon reset when you need to clear your head. Sometimes the best adventures are hiding in your own backyard.

11. Jack’s Creek Pike (Rural Horse Country Road)

Jack’s Creek Pike is where the pavement gets a little rougher and the scenery gets a lot more authentic. This rural route won’t appear on many tourist maps, which is exactly why locals love it.

Farms here focus on function over fashion, though they’re plenty pretty in their own right. Creeks meander through pastures where horses graze contentedly, unbothered by fame or fortune.

Bring your sense of adventure and maybe download an offline map—cell service can get spotty. That’s part of the charm, though.