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Lexington might be a city, but its nearby farms, quaint suburban feel, and bourbon speakeasy vibes will have a visitor thinking it's the biggest little town in Kentucky. Lexington is, in fact, the second-largest city in Kentucky. The city is the home of the University of Kentucky Wildcats, but it is so much more than just a college town. It has sprawling nature, preserved history, and world-class horses, not to mention some top-notch whiskey.
There are all sorts of reasons why Lexington is worth a visit. After all, it’s known as the horse capital of the world, and the area’s equally renowned bourbon distilleries. Combine this with preserved history and delicious meals at every turn, and there is something for everyone in this city nestled deep in the heart of bluegrass country.
Best Time Of Year To Go
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Lexington is worth visiting during any of its four seasons, but there are definitely certain times of the year that are better to visit than others.
Many of Lexington’s most enjoyable activities involve being outside. So while there is no harm in bundling up or bringing a fan along, if a person can avoid the brisk winter and hot summer months, then it is bound to be a more enjoyable experience.
Of course, some parts of Kentucky, like Bardstown, embrace winter and the Christmas season, but in Lexington, the main attraction in winter is lower costs and fewer crowds.
The late spring (April through early June) and early fall (September and October) also represent shoulder seasons for tourism. Count on most popular activities being open but much less crowded than when children are on summer vacation.
It is best to avoid the unforgiving summer heat and humidity, with July being the hottest month and the chilly winter in December through mid-March.
What To Know When Visiting Lexington
Lexington is bluegrass country, and the term “bluegrass” is as much about the grass as much as the music. Bluegrass is named for its bluish hue and grows naturally here. It makes for great hay and feed for the prized horses in the region. So brushing up on some horse knowledge might be wise before heading into town.
In addition to being the horse capital of the world, Lexington is Wildcats country. Not actual wild cats so much as it is the team mascot for the University of Kentucky. This school boasts some of the best college sports teams in the country, especially its basketball, football, and soccer teams.
Visitors should not only consider attending a game but also make sure they are aware of the schedule. Big games mean an influx of visitors.
Best Ways To Get Around The City
When planning a trip to Lexington, try to take a road trip to Kentucky by car, or look into renting one. While the downtown area is very walkable, many of Lexington’s top attractions, including some distilleries and horse farms, are several miles outside Lexington proper and its public transportation network.
Renting a car is a great option for those who want to combine a trip to Lexington with a trip to Mammoth Cave National Park.
If unable or not interested in renting a car, don’t worry, as the downtown has lots of great walking destinations, and there is a public transportation network. Taxis and Uber are also available for far-reaching destinations (or trips all around Northern Kentucky).
Biking is another option. The city boasts 28 miles of bike lanes as well as 24 miles of shared-use trails. So while the city limits stretch far, it is possible to safely get to many corners of the city on two wheels.
Where To Stay In Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington has a wide variety of quality hotels to choose from. Best of all, most of these accommodations are quite affordable.
There are certainly budget hotels to choose from, but there are a wide variety of boutique and respected hotel brands that feature modern luxury accommodations for under $200 per night. Most hotels are in the $125 to $175 per night category for two people.
21c Museum Hotel Lexington
The 21c Museum Hotel Lexington is a fairly affordable option for those who enjoy chic boutique hotels but don’t want to spend $200 a night (or more).
- Nightly Cost: Average nightly cost between $150 and $200 for 2 people.
- Amenities: Fitness Center, Bar, Free WiFi
- What's Nearby: Great location with a short walk to Rupp Arena and Hunt-Morgan House. 5.6 miles from Blue Grass Airport.
Hilton Lexington Downtown
For a trusted and higher-end option in the downtown area, consider the Hilton Lexington Downtown. This hotel has a fantastic location with clean comfortable rooms.
The location also has an outdoor swimming pool to enjoy, as well as a restaurant in the hotel.
- Nightly Cost: Average nightly cost around $200 for 2 people.
- Amenities: Indoor Swimming Pool, Fitness Center, Café, Work Space, Restaurant, Free WiFi
- What's Nearby: Located in the heart of downtown Lexington, in a very walkable area.
Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa
If an ideal vacation not only includes sightseeing but also being pampered a bit, consider booking the Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa.
Enjoy a round of golf, crafted cocktails in their lounge, or a massage, facial, or other spa treatment at Griffin Gate Spa.
- Nightly Cost: Average nightly cost between $150 $200 for two people
- Amenities: Golf, Lounges, Restaurants, Spa
- What's Nearby: Located just a few miles outside downtown Lexington, this resort and spa offers quiet and rural ambiance.
Where To Eat (And Drink) In Lexington
Lexington has a wide variety of dining options. There are all sorts of cuisine, from Asian to Italian and high-end American fare.
But when visiting Lexington to should make sure to enjoy some of its quintessentially-Kentucky establishments that blend a mixture of new American cuisine with Southern classics, and of course, bourbon.
Merrick Inn Restaurant
This restaurant is in an elegant manor house, complete with chandeliers. It offers high-end cuisine and is family owned.
This gives it a level of authenticity, and it's a great place to have a more fine dining meal experience that feels true to Lexington.
- Hours Of Operation: Open daily except Sundays
- Location: 1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY 40502
- Price Range: $$$
- Come Here For: Fine dining ambiance with Lexington charm
OBC Kitchen
The OBC kitchen has some of the best food in Lexington. It is a hip local gastropub with a varied menu. There is something for everyone here, with approachable prices and extensive beverage options.
- Hours Of Operation: Open daily
- Location: 3373 Tates Creek Rd, Lexington, KY 40502
- Price Range: $$
- Come Here For: Chic ambiance, trendy local cuisine.
Carson’s Food & Drink
When looking for a casual yet trendy place to have brunch, lunch, or any meal really, check out Carson’s Food & Drink.
The decor is an edgy mix of natural wood and industrial. It is a great place to have a leisurely brunch on the weekend between activities.
- Hours Of Operation: Open daily
- Location: 362 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507
- Price Range: $$
- Come Here For: Stylized comfort food, great brunch
Bluegrass Tavern
After lunch or dinner, check out an authentic bourbon bar, of which Lexington has several. The Bluegrass Tavern is a great option, as it has a great bourbon and cocktail list, nice ambiance, and great downtown location.
Mix with visitors and locals alike while sampling Kentucky’s finest whiskeys.
- Hours Of Operation: Closed Sunday and Monday
- Location: 115 Cheapside, Lexington, KY 40507
- Price Range: $$
- Come Here For: Large bourbon list and local charm
Top Things To Do In Lexington, Kentucky
Tour A Working Horse Farm
Lexington is the horse capital of the world, so seeing horses needs to be at the top of anyone's list of things to do in Lexington. The best way to see horses and learn about what makes Lexington such a special place for these beauties is to visit a working horse farm like the world-renowned Kentucky Horse Park.
The park is just a 10-mile drive from downtown Lexington and boasts all sorts of great opportunities for tourists.
In addition to visiting the farm itself, there is a visitors center that shows films on the park itself, as well as a substantial museum, The International Museum of the Horse, which showcases (among other things) the Calumet Trophy Collection.
- Hours Of Operation: 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
- Cost Of Admission: $16 to $20 per adult ($8 to $10 for children)
- Attraction Highlights: Guided Tour, Horse Viewing, Museum
Watch A Horse Race Or Event At Keeneland
Another fantastic must-do horse activity involves a visit to Keeneland, a Lexington treasure. Keeneland is a famous racetrack that dates back to 1936 and is without question the best place to see a horse race in the Lexington area. While it might not be The Kentucky Derby, races here are thrilling.
Even if unable to watch some training runs or tour the facility on an "off" day, it is worth taking in the beautiful scenery and immaculate grounds that surround this iconic track.
- Hours Of Operation: See Schedule here. No racing on Mondays and Tuesdays
- Cost Of Admission: Between $7 and $30 depending on ticket type and event.
- Attraction Highlights: Guided racetrack tour, horse racing, dining
Visit A Bourbon Distillery on the Bourbon Trail
People might come to Lexington for the horses, but they stay for the whiskey. Lexington is one of the cities in Kentucky along the fabled and iconic Bourbon Trail and boasts some great distilleries.
For an authentic experience, try a smaller brewery like Bluegrass Distillers. They feature informative tours, knowledgeable staff, and of course, fantastic Bourbon.
Plus, visiting these smaller producers also offers a great opportunity to buy gifts for whiskey lovers.
- Hours Of Operation: Open Daily
- Cost Of Admission: Starting at $10
- Attraction Highlights: Distillery tours, bourbon tastings, expert guides
Take A Tour Of The Mary Todd Lincoln House
President Abraham Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, is from Lexington, Kentucky. The Mary Todd Lincoln House dates back to 1803 and was the former first lady’s childhood home. It is possible to visit the home, which is filled with portraits and mementos from the Lincoln and Todd families.
The house is quite large, with 14 rooms in total. Take an hour-long guided tour through the home and learn all about the first lady, the home, and life in Lexington in the 1800s.
- Hours Of Operation: March 15 through November 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.)
- Cost Of Admission: Adult $15, Youth $6
- Attraction Highlights: Guided tour of famous first lady’s home.
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
Kentucky is also home to some remarkable nature all its own. The best place to see lazy rivers, majestic birds, and pristine Kentucky wilderness is at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.
This 734-acre sanctuary is a great place for families and lovers of the outdoors to spend a beautiful day in the Bluegrass State.
From bird watching to hiking trails and even organized yoga sessions, this sanctuary has it all for those who need some fresh air and outdoor activity between whiskey tastings.
- Hours Of Operation: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily
- Cost Of Admission: Free
- Attraction Highlights: Bird Watching, Hiking Trails
Kentucky Theatre
A visit to downtown Lexington doesn’t feel complete without taking in a movie at the iconic Kentucky Theatre. This theater and its preserved vintage marquee immediately take one back to old Hollywood and the golden era of movie theaters.
The theater shows new and old movies alike, from early classics to new releases. In fact, it's possible to take in a midnight showing of the "Rocky Horror Picture Show."
- Hours Of Operation: Show times daily
- Cost Of Admission: Average ticket cost around $10
- Attraction Highlights: Classic films, new releases in vintage theater setting
How To Spend A Perfect Day In Lexington Kentucky
There are so many different directions one can take to achieve a fantastic day in Lexington, but in the end, all roads will lead to horses and bourbon. Since this is the case, why not start the day at a horse farm?
Head to the Kentucky Horse Park in the morning — this helps avoid larger crowds and the afternoon sun. After learning about what makes these horses so coveted and special a person will want to see them race, but first, food.
Head over to Lexington’s walkable downtown and pop into one of its eateries for a hearty lunch with a Kentucky twist. Once feeling satisfied by the meal, it's time to see horses in action.
There is no better place to witness a horse event in Lexington than the iconic Keeneland. Make sure to check in advance of the trip for upcoming races, and buy tickets in advance if possible in order to secure a spot at one of Lexington’s top attractions.
When the race is over, it’s time to hit the Bourbon Trail. Pick from one of Lexington’s handful of renowned bourbon distilleries and try some famous Kentucky whiskey. For those who are feeling ambitious, do a distillery tour. Or just head straight for the bar and tasting room and sample the good stuff while learning about each different whiskey while sipping.
Next, it is time for more food. Try out one of the many delicious restaurants with an authentic bluegrass ambiance. After dinner, it might be time to call it a night after an eventful day. But if there is still a bit of energy remaining, check out the historic Kentucky Theatre and take in a movie in its classic atmosphere.
FAQ
Q: Is Lexington A Good Place To Visit For Families?
Lexington is a great place for families to live, and also to visit. There is a large list of enjoyable safe activities for all ages. From horseback riding and horse farm exploration to the Raven Run Nature sanctuary, there are lots of ways to engage adults and children alike. Lexington also has a safe, laid-back energy, resembling a more large suburb than an oppressive bustling city.
Q: Is The Kentucky Derby Near Lexington?
The Kentucky Derby takes place in Louisville, at Churchill Downs Racetrack, about an hour and a half away (by car) from Lexington.
Q: Is Lexington KY worth visiting?
Lexington, KY is an excellent destination for people who are passionate about horses, history, and good spirits. Both Lexington and nearby Louisville offer plenty of things to do, including bourbon and whiskey tasting plus adventures for all ages.