International Museum of the Horse

A large, comprehensive museum dedicated to the history of the horse and its impact on human civilization. There is also a library that serves as an excellent resource for research worldwide. Permanent exhibits are a highlight. A must for any horse enthusiast. 7

The International Museum of the Horse is a one of a kind event and place. There is a history of many different breeds as well as of specific famous race horses. There are interactive areas, 3-D sections, skeletons of very famous race horses, the racing industry, history of jockeys and owners.But the person who knows nothing about horses, or the lifelong expert, there is still much to learn and enjoy The museum is located, within the Kentucky Horse Park, which has huge barns with various shows and exhibits. Some are for children. There is an arena that puts on a show, exhibiting certain breeds with the history and demonstrations of each.It is truly a one of a kind experience with some thing for everyone

Overall, this might be closer to a four star museum, but it gets five stars for being unique and having such earnest, knowledgeable employees. You won't find anything like this outside of the Kentucky Horse Park.Some of the permanent exhibits have been here for years, but newbies won't know that. Some of those exhibits include collections of wagons and horse-centered transport, Arabian horses, and Kentucky Derby trophies and memorabilia.The current exhibit they have now centers on African American contributions to horse racing. It's a very well thought out exhibit and does a pretty good job of addressing slavery, Jim Crow, and the vilification of African Americans. I do recommend it.Again, when you purchase entry into the horse park (about 12 dollars), your admission for the next day is free when you bring your receipt. This includes this museum. There is also a saddlebred museum on the same campus.A unique set of museums, a horse Mecca (I've also reviewed the horse park previously), and a reasonable price.

The International Museum of the Horse is located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. It consists of over 60,000 square feet and is the largest and most comprehensive museum dedicated to the horse,, its development and its role throughout civilization. The International Museum of the Horse opened in 1978 in conjunction with the Kentucky Horse Park. With a goal of educating the public on all things pertaining to the horse the museum is perfect for all ages. The exhibits are timely in addition to providing a look back through time to the development and important roles that horses have played. From exhibits featuring famous thoroughbred race horses to splendid cases of silver trophies from by gone days to saddles and carriages the museum has it all. Don't miss this collection. It is well worth a trip to see.

Loved the section on the Arabians especially, the interactive nature of many of the exhibits for the little ones and the gigantic bronzes throughout the park. I appreciated the history of black jockeys and their important role in the creation of an entire industry. So looking at the horse industry and not just the horses was great. And Lexington! The full sized skeleton was a treat to see. I want to go back when I can visit the mounted police and see the pretty grounds in spring/summer. The winter decorations and lights were definitely worth the drive. The museum is the perfect size to feel you saw it all and that there is more to see. Also, the gift shop was spectacular. Lots of selection, decent pricing and perfect. The only thing I wish for is a cafe or coffee shop on site. I was hungry! Maybe next time I bring a picnic and eat outside. Parking is super close and be sure to plan your visit to see the police barn. I was not as impressed with the smaller saddlebred museum. It was off the beaten path and rather thin in terms of information and exhibits on the gorgeous saddlebreds that Kentucky is famous for. Would have loved to see the history of the original breedings and characteristics rather than just the modern saddlebred....