Say hay to horses, monkeys, and more with these animal encounters in + around Lexington

No matter how many years you’ve been in LEX, you can’t help but say, “Aww, horses” every time you see one. But did you know the Bluegrass is also home to some scaley, feathered, and furry friends you can visit? Here are six opportunities to get up-close-and-personal with local + global wildlife.

Visit Horse Country , various farms

From working stud farms to meeting mamas + babies, learn all about Lexington’s rich thoroughbred industry in person. Book an interactive tour to get a hands-on horsey experience.

• Animal encounters: You guessed it, horses.

Kentucky Horse Park , 4089 Iron Works Pkwy.

This local landmark is home to 70 horses representing 40+ breeds. You can find them scattered throughout the property in various barns including Mounted Police, Hall of Champions, and the Breeds Barn.

• Animal encounters: Horses, duh.

Lexington Humane Society , 1600 Old Frankfort Pike

If you’re not quite ready to commit to adopting your own pet, there are plenty of ways to brighten the day + spend time with local animals looking for homes. Keep an eye out for fundraising puppy + kitten yoga classes, or check a dog out for the afternoon.

• Animal encounters: Dogs, cats, and bunnies

Shaker Village , 3051 Lexington Rd., Harrodsburg

Take a self-guided stroll through the working farm + organic garden to visit animals or enjoy acres of exploration via the horse drawn wagon ride.

• Animal encounters: Pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, and horses

Salato Wildlife Education Center , 1 Sportsman’s Ln., Frankfort

Available for visits March-November, this division of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife features indoor + outdoor exhibits, hiking trails, and fishing lakes.

• Animal encounters: Snakes, turtles, bobcats, eagles, deer + more

Primate Rescue Sanctuary , 2515 Bethel Rd., Nicholasville

Who would have thought Central Kentucky was home to dozens of chimpanzees + monkeys? This nonprofit is not open to the public, but you can support its mission by becoming a member. Visits are limited to private, members-only events.

• Animal encounters: Chimpanzees, long-tailed macaques, spider monkeys + more