Lexington

Day Trips

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.

Kick off your day with a visit to the Lexington Art League, where you can admire contemporary art from local and regional artists. Spend some time at the University of Kentucky Art Museum, which showcases a diverse collection of artwork spanning several centuries. Afterward, grab a light brunch at a nearby café, enjoying the local flavors.

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant arts scene in the North Limestone neighborhood, known for its street art and creative spaces. Visit the Lyric Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances and events, and take a guided tour if available. Engage with local artists at studios or pop-up galleries, getting a glimpse into Lexington’s creative process.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that features locally inspired dishes, perhaps with a Southern twist. Attend a performance at the Lexington Opera House, where you can enjoy a range of productions from musicals to concerts. After the show, unwind at a local coffee shop or bar with a laid-back atmosphere.

Start your morning with a nutritious breakfast at a local café before heading out to the scenic Red River Gorge. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning trails that wind through the gorge, taking in breathtaking views and unique rock formations. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you trek through the lush forests.

After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the tranquility of your surroundings. In the afternoon, visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park for more hiking and the chance to see the iconic natural arch. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

Return to Lexington for a relaxed dinner at a cozy restaurant, perhaps trying a dish featuring local game. Spend your evening at a local brewery, sampling craft beers made from Kentucky ingredients. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories from your adventures.

Begin your day at the historic Waveland State Historic Site, where you can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about the antebellum period. Afterward, head to the nearby Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, to learn about the life of the prominent Kentucky statesman. Take a leisurely stroll through the estate’s gardens, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House for a guided tour, delving into the history of the Lincoln family and their connection to Lexington. For lunch, find a quaint café nearby that offers a taste of local flavors. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Lexington Cemetery, a beautiful and historic resting place for many notable figures.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a renowned restaurant that offers a mix of Southern and contemporary cuisine. Afterward, catch a performance at the Kentucky Theatre, one of the oldest and most charming theaters in the state, showcasing both classic and independent films. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the historic streets, admiring the twilight ambiance.

Begin your culinary adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local diner known for its Southern fare. After breakfast, take a guided tour of a local distillery, such as the Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., to learn about the whiskey-making process. Enjoy a tasting session and discover the unique flavors of craft bourbon.

For lunch, enjoy a food tour that allows you to sample various local specialties, from barbecue to sweet treats. Visit the Kentucky Market for some local ingredients and artisanal products. Afterward, continue your distillery exploration with a visit to another well-known distillery to expand your palate.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a renowned restaurant that offers a mix of Southern and contemporary cuisine. Afterward, catch a performance at the Kentucky Theatre, one of the oldest and most charming theaters in the state, showcasing both classic and independent films. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the historic streets, admiring the twilight ambiance.

Start your family adventure with breakfast at a kid-friendly café, where the menu includes fun and creative options for all ages. Visit the Explorium of Lexington, an interactive children's museum filled with hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and learning. Engage your kids with science, arts, and local history as you explore together.

After a fun morning, have lunch at a family-oriented restaurant before heading to the Lexington Zoo. Spend the afternoon exploring the zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and even participate in special animal encounters. Let the kids enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas available throughout the zoo.

Wrap up your day with dinner at a casual eatery featuring kid-friendly meals, where you can relax and share stories about your day. If the weather permits, enjoy an evening at a local park, letting your kids run around and play. End the day with a sweet treat from an ice cream shop, making for a perfect family outing.

Start your leisurely day with breakfast at a trendy café that offers local pastries and coffee. After breakfast, explore the Lexington Green shopping center, where you can find a mix of boutiques, local artisans, and national brands. Spend some time browsing the shops and picking out unique souvenirs.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants within the shopping complex, offering a variety of cuisines. Afterward, visit the Fayette Mall, where you can continue your shopping spree and take a break at one of the mall's many cafés. Consider a relaxing afternoon at a nearby spa for some pampering and self-care.

As evening approaches, choose a restaurant for dinner that offers a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse menu. After your meal, head to a local theater for a movie or live performance, immersing yourself in Lexington's entertainment scene. Conclude your day with a walk through the shopping area, enjoying the evening lights and ambiance.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Kentucky River for some outdoor fun. Rent a kayak or canoe and spend the morning paddling along the scenic river, taking in the beautiful landscapes. The peaceful sounds of nature will create a perfect backdrop for a relaxing morning.

After your water adventure, head to a nearby park for a picnic lunch amidst nature. Spend the afternoon hiking or biking along the scenic trails that wind through the area, appreciating the natural beauty of the surroundings. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife along the way.

For dinner, find a cozy restaurant near the river that specializes in fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, unwind at a local wine bar, sampling some of Kentucky's finest wines. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps share stories with fellow travelers or locals.