This museum elucidates and pays tribute to Kentucky's only native equine breed. The American saddlebred, a prominent show horse, is presented via artwork, sculpture, artifacts, interactive exhibits, and other methods. Exhibits change regularly and often draw on private collections for substance. Video and theater displays couple word and image for visitors, granting them an overview of this famous, respected breed. A gift shop is available for take-home remembrances. N.B. Museum admission is included in admission for Kentucky Horse Park.

If you're the type who's mesmerized by thoughts of flight and taking to the clouds, you'll appreciate this local museum. Within it lie a number of restored aircraft, along with flying instruments and artifacts. Included in the collection are a Heath Center Wing, an A-4 Skyhawk, and a model of the state's first airplane, which took flight initially in 1908. Kids are also delighted by the flight simulator, which takes them on a gentle, exciting (and grounded) ride and lets them see how planes function and move.

[Fire damage in November, 2006, means that only reenactments and train rides are currently offered. Reopening planned for May 2008.] Not more than fifteen miles from Lexington, this facility offers fascinating glimpses of the rail era, along with displays of equipment and memorabilia. It also invites visitors to take a ride through the countryside on a vintage train. Pastoral scenery, complete with local flora and grazing livestock, greets passengers, who take the same route as that once followed by the Louisville Southern Railroad. Special event and holiday rides are also available. The museum works diligently to preserve railroad memorabilia and its attendant lore.

On what was once the family estate, George W. Headley III, an accomplished jewelry designer, instituted (with his wife, Barbara Whitney) this museum dedicated to decorative arts. Encompassing such well-designed but functional objects as ceramics, textiles, and furniture, decorative arts are intended to be utilitarian but have exceptional beauty. Culled from collections around the world, exhibitions feature jewelry, quilts, pottery, teapots, shoes, silverware, and even picture frames. An amazing, well-respected museum that offers insight into history and culture through objects and use.

Documenting the evolution of the horse, its longstanding relationship to humans, and its status in the modern world, this museum explores the equine in its many roles and incarnations. Art exhibits, photography shows, biological and historical explorations, riding paraphernalia, and an examination of multiple breeds comprise the bulk of the museum's displays, although you'll also find special traveling exhibits that provide further elucidation of the horse. A research library is available for visitors who crave additional information.