Lexington, Kentucky, January 28, 2026

Keeneland Race Course introduces a modern Paddock Building to enhance fan experiences during the Spring Meet. With over 1,000 new dining seats and five hospitality venues, the new facility marks a significant investment in Kentucky’s Thoroughbred community and local engagement. Tickets for the Spring Meet will go on sale soon, promising excitement for racing fans and highlighting Keeneland’s commitment to quality and service.

Keeneland Unveils New Paddock Building for 2026 Spring Meet

Exciting upgrades enhance the fan experience at Lexington’s premier race course

Lexington, Kentucky – Keeneland Race Course is poised to elevate its esteemed reputation with the introduction of the newly constructed Paddock Building during the 2026 Spring Meet, starting April 3. This modern facility enhances the visitor experience, featuring over 1,000 new public dining seats each race day and five distinct hospitality venues, marking a significant advancement in local event offerings.

The upgrades at Keeneland are a testament to the power of private initiative and investment in areas that matter most to the community. The Paddock Building is part of a broader $100 million capital construction project, emphasizing local leadership’s commitment to boosting Kentucky’s Thoroughbred industry while fostering community engagement. As funding and planning arrive with fewer bureaucratic hurdles, the potential for local successes becomes a reality.

New Hospitality Venues

The Paddock Building’s five unique dining experiences promise to cater to a wide variety of tastes and preferences:

• 1936 Room: Guests can indulge in an all-inclusive experience complete with lounge seating, high-top tables, and premium bar service, all while enjoying views of jockeys as they make their way to the Saddling Paddock.
• Sycamore Room: This venue offers à la carte high-end dining with classic American cuisine, positioned conveniently next to the Stakes Winner’s Circle.
• Dogwood Room: With its spacious second-floor setting, this buffet-style dining hall affords guests expansive views of the Saddling Paddock, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the action.
• Ivy Room: Designed for private gatherings, this refined setting offers buffet-style dining tailored for intimate groups.
• The Rooftop: With options for both indoor dining and a covered outdoor space, guests can relish sweeping views across the Keeneland campus.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the eagerly anticipated 2026 Spring Meet will be available for purchase online starting February 17 at 9 a.m. ET. This popular event runs from April 3 to April 24, offering excitement for racing enthusiasts throughout the month. Notably, no races will be held on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Easter Sunday, April 5.

Background on the Paddock Building

The construction of the Paddock Building represents the most substantial development in Keeneland’s 89-year history and is designed for year-round functionality. Beyond enhancing the racing experience, this venue will morph into a premium location for sales and private events, further cultivating Keeneland’s role within the Thoroughbred community and supporting its ongoing mission.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Events

Apart from the Spring Meet, Keeneland will also serve as host for the 2026 Breeders’ Cup World Championships on October 30-31, 2026. This event marks the fourth time that Keeneland has been selected as the venue for this prestigious championship, reiterating its esteemed status within the equine sport and a growing attraction for local and visiting bettors alike.

Community Impact

The enhancements at Keeneland are not only a victory for racing fans but also reflect the broader themes of civic innovation and individual initiative prevalent in Lexington, Kentucky. By investing in local attractions, Keeneland bolsters its community leadership role and engages citizens in shared experiences that align with the state’s rich equestrian heritage.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the Paddock Building at Keeneland Race Course will undoubtedly enhance Kentucky’s reputation in the racing community. As fans prepare for the 2026 Spring Meet, it’s an opportunity to celebrate local achievements and the exciting future of Thoroughbred racing in Kentucky. Engage with your community by visiting Keeneland and experiencing firsthand the exemplary hospitality and energy unparalleled in this historic venue.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Keeneland to Launch New Hospitality Venues for Race Fans
Strange Injuries Ignite Concerns Over Haunted Doll in Louisville
Lexington Man Creates Charity Haunted Maze for Tornado Relief
FCPS Hosts Third Annual Bus-A-Treat Halloween Event
Senate Candidates Debate Trade and Labor Policies in Lexington
New Playground Opens at Masterson Hills Park in Lexington
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Brings Joy to Louisville
Central Kentucky Trick-or-Treat Times Announced
Lexington Officers Honored for Heroic Response
Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Restrict Sex Offenders from Halloween Activities

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.