Things To Do
in Lexington
Lexington, Kentucky sits in the heart of the Bluegrass Region, bordered by rolling pastures and a vibrant urban core. It is famous for Thoroughbred horse country, distinguished universities, and a growing dining and arts scene. Downtown Lexington blends historic architecture with modern galleries, breweries, and farmers markets.
Whether you’re touring horse farms, exploring campus culture, or savoring bourbon-inspired cuisine, Lexington offers a welcoming, flavorful, and distinctly Southern experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Lexington by visiting the Mary Todd Lincoln House, where you can learn about the early life of the First Lady. Stroll through the picturesque streets, enjoying the beautiful architecture and rich history that surrounds you. Don’t forget to grab a local coffee at a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, head over to the Lexington History Museum to delve deeper into the city’s past, from its early settlement to its role in the Civil War. Spend some time walking through the vibrant streets of the downtown area, where you can browse local boutiques and art galleries. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the beautiful Thoroughbred Park, taking in the statues and fountains that celebrate Lexington's equestrian heritage.
As evening falls, dine at a local restaurant that features traditional Kentucky cuisine, such as fried chicken or burgoo. After your meal, take a stroll through the lively nightlife scene in downtown Lexington, perhaps stopping by a bar with live music. End your night with a sweet treat from a local ice cream parlor.
Begin your day with a guided tour of a thoroughbred horse farm, where you can witness the beauty of Kentucky’s famous racehorses. Learn about the breeding and training of these magnificent animals from knowledgeable trainers. Enjoy the serene landscapes as you drive through the rolling hills of horse country.
After the tour, take a break for lunch at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant, sampling fresh local produce and dishes. Continue your equestrian adventure by visiting the Kentucky Horse Park, where you can explore exhibits and meet horses of all breeds. Don't miss the daily presentations that showcase the skills and history of these incredible animals.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rustic steakhouse, where you can savor some of the region's best cuts of meat. If you’re up for it, attend a live horse racing event at the Keeneland Race Course, where you can experience the thrill of the races. End your evening with a nightcap at one of the charming local bars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $110-180 |
| 🧃Cup of coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚶Transit ticket (local, one-way) | $1-3 |
| 🥗Grocery meal for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong horse-country heritage and beautiful countryside
- Growing food and craft beverage scene
- Walkable downtown with historic architecture and parks
- Good access to nature and nearby hiking trails
- Can be busy around Keeneland and university events
- Hot summers can be humid; winter temperatures can dip below freezing
- Some attractions are seasonal (distillery tours, horse racing availability)
Places to Visit in Lexington
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic limestone façades, charming street corners, and storefronts provide timeless urban photography with a Southern vibe.
Tree-lined streets, elegant mansions, and peaceful greens create a refined backdrop for portraits and architectural shots.
Iconic horse racing venue with grandstands, horse enclosures, and dramatic morning light on the track.
Natural scenery, wooded trails, and scenic overlooks ideal for nature photography and wildlife shots.
Arboretum trails, historic buildings, and college-town energy offer dynamic campus photography.
Expansive grounds, equine exhibits, and picturesque vistas perfect for wide shots and close-ups of horses.
Food in Lexington
Lexington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon and Mornay sauce, traditionally served hot on toasted bread.
Must-Try!
A creamy, tangy cheese dip made with local beer, perfect for dunking soft pretzels.
A thick, savory stew featuring assorted meats and vegetables, a Kentucky staple especially in cooler months.
Crispy catfish served with flaky biscuits and traditional Southern sides.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown Lexington offering local produce, baked goods, jams, and prepared foods from regional vendors.
Food trucks and small eateries near distilleries along the Bourbon Trail offer regional snacks and tasty bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous to servers and staff; small talk is common and welcomed in social settings.
Friendly casual conversation about local sports, bourbon, and horse country is typical and warmly received.
Safety
Tipping in Lexington
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard 15-20% tip is customary for good service. For takeout or quick-service, tipping is optional but appreciated if service is above and beyond.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are common in downtown areas and near shopping districts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens and outdoor festivals; pack light layers and a camera for colorful scenery.
Warm to hot days with humidity; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy outdoor patios and farmers markets in the evenings.
Pleasant temps and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for walking tours, photo walks, and outdoor dining.
Cool to cold, occasional snow; warm eateries and bourbon bars provide cozy refuges and festive events.
Lexington at Night
Hiking in Lexington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with sandstone cliffs and hundreds of miles of trails, about a 1.5-2 hour drive from Lexington; excellent for day hikes and photo opportunities.
Steep trails and natural arches set in a forested landscape, offering both moderate and challenging hikes nearby.
A closer option in Lexington with well-marked trails through woodlands and meadows for wildlife viewing and easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Lexington by plane.
Conveniently close to downtown Lexington with domestic flights and rental car services; easy for quick trips and short stays.
A larger hub about 1.5 hours away by car; offers broad national and international connections.
Another regional option about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car; good for ongoing connections and longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of the population comes from the University of Kentucky and associated colleges, bringing a youthful energy to the city.
Longtime residents plus families who value outdoor recreation, parks, and community events.
Visitors drawn to horse country, craft beverage scenes, and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core regional sport with Keeneland and surrounding horse farms contributing to a deep equestrian culture.
UK Wildcats games and related fan culture are a major local draw, especially in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lexington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lexington restaurants offer vegetarian entrées and sides; ask for meatless versions of local dishes when possible, and look for farm-to-table menus that highlight seasonal vegetables.