Lexington, Kentucky, January 28, 2026
Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky, will soon launch its new Paddock Building, featuring five innovative hospitality venues aimed at enhancing the race-day experience for fans. The spaces will provide a mix of dining options designed to cater to both seasoned racegoers and newcomers, promoting community engagement and celebrating the heritage of horse racing.
Exciting New Paddock Building Set to Transform Keeneland Experience
Five New Hospitality Venues Enhance Race Day at Keeneland
Lexington, Kentucky – Keeneland is set to unveil its newly constructed Paddock Building during the 2026 Spring Meet, introducing five distinct hospitality venues that will enhance the race-day experience for fans. This innovative addition represents a significant step forward for the venue, spotlighting a commitment to elevating how attendees enjoy horse racing, all while fostering community engagement in Lexington.
With new dining options designed to captivate both seasoned racegoers and newcomers alike, Keeneland showcases how limited bureaucracy and a focus on personal initiatives can enhance community traditions. The carefully designed spaces will provide fans with more than just a view of the races—they will create immersive environments that celebrate the rich heritage of horse racing in the Bluegrass state.
New Hospitality Venues
The five new venues set to open in the Paddock Building are:
- 1936 Room: This all-inclusive hospitality experience blends vibrant social energy with rich tradition. It offers lounge seating, high-top tables, passed heavy hors d’oeuvres, and premium bar service, along with exclusive access to the Paddock Lawn.
- Sycamore Room: Named after the iconic Sycamore tree, this room provides à la carte high-end dining featuring classic American cuisine, immersed in the atmosphere of pre-race traditions.
- Dogwood Room: With buffet-style dining and views of the Saddling Paddock, the Dogwood Room offers a spacious and elegant setting for enjoying significant race day moments.
- Ivy Room: Designed for private gatherings, this intimate space complements the Dogwood Room with sophisticated buffet offerings and a focus on exclusive experiences.
- The Rooftop: Featuring indoor and outdoor dining areas with sweeping views of the Keeneland campus, The Rooftop merges stylish comfort with scenic surroundings.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2026 Spring Meet will go on sale on Tuesday, February 17, at 9 a.m. ET. The Spring Meet runs from April 3 to 24, with no racing on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Easter Sunday, April 5. It is advised to purchase tickets online in advance due to expected high demand.
About the Paddock Building
The Paddock Building symbolizes Keeneland’s ongoing effort to attract new fans while enhancing the experience for existing ones. Designed for year-round use, this facility will not only transform race-day interactions but also serve as a prime venue for private events and sales. Local designer Matthew Carter has successfully infused Southern elegance into the building’s interiors, ensuring it complements Keeneland’s storied tradition.
Conclusion
The upcoming Paddock Building at Keeneland stands as a testament to the power of local initiative and infrastructure investment in community growth. By introducing five distinct venues, Keeneland is setting a new standard for hospitality in Lexington, encouraging more individuals to engage with the local heritage of horse racing. Support for local events can pave the way for continued innovation in how we celebrate our state’s unique traditions.
FAQ
What is the Paddock Building?
The Paddock Building is a newly constructed facility at Keeneland that introduces five distinct hospitality venues designed to enhance the race-day experience for fans. It also features a reimagined Saddling Paddock and Stakes Winner’s Circle, bringing spectators and horsemen closer to the heart of the sport.
When will the Paddock Building open?
The Paddock Building will debut during the 2026 Spring Meet, which runs from April 3 to 24, with no racing on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Easter Sunday, April 5.
How can I purchase tickets for the 2026 Spring Meet?
Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, February 17, at 9 a.m. ET. They can be purchased through Keeneland’s official online ticket office at tickets.keeneland.com/racing. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online, as demand is high.
What are the new hospitality venues in the Paddock Building?
The five new venues are the 1936 Room, Sycamore Room, Dogwood Room, Ivy Room, and The Rooftop. Each offers unique dining experiences and views of the reimagined Saddling Paddock and Stakes Winner’s Circle.
Who designed the interior spaces of the Paddock Building?
The interior design was led by Lexington-based designer Matthew Carter, known for blending Southern elegance with fresh interiors.
Key Features of the Paddock Building
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 1936 Room | An all-inclusive hospitality experience with lounge seating, passed hors d’oeuvres, and premium bar service, offering up-close views as jockeys pass through on their way to the Saddling Paddock. |
| Sycamore Room | À la carte high-end dining featuring classic American cuisine, located adjacent to the new Stakes Winner’s Circle. |
| Dogwood Room | Buffet-style dining with panoramic views of the Saddling Paddock, providing an ideal vantage point for viewing pre-race action. |
| Ivy Room | Intimate atmosphere for private group gatherings, offering buffet-style dining in a refined setting. This venue is not included in public ticket offerings. |
| The Rooftop | Enclosed premium indoor dining room and covered outdoor space with sweeping views of the entire Keeneland campus, featuring a focal bar and patio seating. |
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