Horse racing might have been around for thousands of years, but it still remains a niche sport. This means that only some parts of the world have a big horse racing culture and organize massive events.
If you are a horse racing enthusiast from such a region, you probably know the struggle of not getting enough action since there are no big horse racing events nearby. But there is something called horse racing tourism, where people travel to places where there is plenty of horse racing action.
The good thing is that the horse racing culture is growing. There are new regions that dive into horse racing as a sport, which is all good news for racing enthusiasts.
So, what are the best spots for horse racing fans to travel to? Well, we’ve looked at many factors, such as horse racing culture, big horse racing events, and the entire horse racing vibe you get from such places, and made a list of top travel destinations for horse racing enthusiasts.
1. Lexington, Kentucky
We cannot talk about horse racing culture and not mention Lexington, Kentucky, right? This is probably the global capital of horse racing, and a place where they live and breathe horse racing.
We are not only talking about big horse racing events and impressive venues. There are over 400 horse farms in Lexington, and this is, without a doubt, the beating heart of American Thoroughbred racing.
Speaking of the racecourse, you have to visit the Keeneland Racecourse, and since you are there, you might as well visit Louisville, and the popular Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
If you are a true horse racing enthusiast, Kentucky should be at the top of your bucket list.
So, when is the perfect time to visit Kentucky? Well, if you want to catch some horse racing action (obviously, we all do), then we suggest going from April to October, since the racing season is live.
But while you are there, don’t just visit big horse racing venues. Try to learn more about horse racing culture, go to farms, and even museums.
2. Ascot, England
England is another obvious choice when it comes to horse racing. The United Kingdom is often regarded as the birthplace of modern-day horse racing, and it is not surprising that they have hundreds of big horse racing events every year.
There are many beautiful horse racing tracks, but if you have to choose, we suggest going to the Royal Ascot. This is a very popular event that’s held every June, with massive crowds and fashion on point.
But even if you miss the Royal Ascot, there are plenty of events in England and around the UK, so you, as a horse racing enthusiast, would have a great time.
3. Melbourne, Australia
Down under, things are different. Kangaroos, Vegemite, and oh yeah, The Melbourne Cup. This race is such a big deal that it literally stops the nation. No joke, it’s a public holiday in Victoria.
Held on the first Tuesday of November, the Melbourne Cup is a mix of fashion, pageantry, and some of the best long-distance horse racing you’ll ever see. But beyond the big event, the entire Spring Racing Carnival is worth experiencing. Flemington Racecourse turns into a buzzing hive of bettors, party-goers, and racing purists.
It’s like Ascot, but with a tan and fewer people saying “darling.”
4. Saratoga Springs, New York
Some places feel like horse racing is in their DNA. Saratoga Springs is one of those towns. The Saratoga Race Course is one of the oldest in the U.S. (dating back to 1863), and it comes alive every summer.
The track isn’t flashy, but it’s charming, and the fans are passionate. You’ll see old-timers with notebooks filled with decades of notes, young families introducing kids to the sport, and bettors living and dying by the photo finish.
Beyond the track, Saratoga itself is adorable. There are historic inns, mineral springs, and live music in the park. It’s the kind of place where racing isn’t just an event, it’s a way of life.
If you want more horse racing location suggestions in the United States, check out this list of major horse races.
5. Dubai, UAE
Now let’s shift gears into full-blown luxury. This is actually a new player in the horse racing industry that’s making some big moves.
They have something called The Dubai World Cup, held every March, which is not just one of the richest races in the world, it’s a spectacle. We’re talking private yachts, million-dollar purses, and enough gold trim to blind a jockey.
The event is held at Meydan Racecourse, a futuristic facility with a five-star hotel, fine dining, and even its own museum. This is horse racing for the ultra-elite, but don’t worry, you don’t need a sheikh’s budget to enjoy the energy.
Dubai also offers a unique blend of old-school Bedouin horse culture and cutting-edge technology. Where else can you go from desert camel races to a champagne brunch at a racecourse?
6. Chantilly, France
Paris may have the Eiffel Tower, but true horse racing fans know that Chantilly is where the real French magic happens. The Prix du Jockey Club, aka the French Derby, is held here every June. It’s stylish, sophisticated, and perfectly French in every way.
Chantilly Racecourse is surrounded by forest, historic châteaus, and a vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. The nearby Château de Chantilly even houses the Living Horse Museum (yes, that’s a thing), and the town is filled with cafes and boutiques that’ll make you wish you packed a second suitcase.
You don’t just watch races here, you sip wine, admire the architecture, and question your life choices for not being born French nobility.
So, which is your first destination? Let us know in the comments.
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