If you’re looking for a fun and exciting vacation destination, look no further than Lexington, Kentucky. Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington has something for everyone. From its vibrant music and arts scene to its amazing outdoor activities, Lexington is an ideal place for a fun and memorable trip. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sightseeing or an action-packed adventure, the city of Lexington has something for you. From exploring the city’s historical sites to taking in a show at the Kentucky Horse Park, here are some of the best things to do in Lexington, Kentucky.
Let’s take a look at the 15 most remarkable places in Lexington KY that you should not miss once you have arrived:
Kentucky Horse Park
The Kentucky Horse Park is a popular tourist attraction in Lexington, Kentucky, that is dedicated to the history and culture of horses. It is located on over 1,200 acres of rolling hills and pastures, and is home to a variety of museums, exhibits, and live shows that showcase the beauty and importance of horses.
Visitors to the Kentucky Horse Park can explore the many exhibits and galleries that detail the history of horses in Kentucky, as well as the important role they have played in the state’s economy and culture. The park features several museums, including the International Museum of the Horse, the American Saddlebred Museum, and the Wheeler Museum, which display a variety of artifacts, artwork, and other items related to horses.
In addition to the museums and exhibits, the Kentucky Horse Park also hosts a variety of live shows and demonstrations, such as the Parade of Breeds, which showcases the different breeds of horses found throughout Kentucky, and the Hall of Champions, which features retired racehorses and other famous horses that have made significant contributions to the equine industry.
The park also offers a variety of other activities and amenities, including horseback riding, pony rides, carriage rides, and a campground for visitors who wish to stay overnight. The park’s extensive grounds are also home to several scenic trails and picnic areas, providing visitors with a beautiful and peaceful setting to enjoy the outdoors.
Aviation Museum of Kentucky
The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is a popular tourist attraction located in Lexington, Kentucky, that is dedicated to the history and science of aviation. It features a large collection of vintage aircraft, exhibits, and educational programs that showcase the development and evolution of aviation technology.
Visitors to the Aviation Museum of Kentucky can explore a variety of exhibits, displays, and interactive experiences that highlight the rich history of aviation. The museum features a collection of vintage aircraft, including military and civilian planes, helicopters, and gliders, many of which are restored to their original condition. There are also exhibits that showcase the evolution of aviation technology, such as engines, instruments, and avionics.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. There are workshops, seminars, and classes that cover a range of topics related to aviation, from the science of flight to the history of the aerospace industry. The museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as airshows, lectures, and special exhibits.
For those interested in the aviation industry, the Aviation Museum of Kentucky also features a library and research center that houses an extensive collection of books, journals, and other resources related to aviation history and science.
Mary Todd Lincoln House
The Mary Todd Lincoln House is a historic site and museum located in downtown Lexington, Kentucky, that is dedicated to the life and legacy of Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. The museum is housed in the childhood home of Mary Todd Lincoln, which was restored to its original condition and opened to the public in 1977.
Visitors to the Mary Todd Lincoln House can explore the historic home and grounds, which have been restored to their 19th-century appearance. The museum features a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the life and times of Mary Todd Lincoln, as well as the history of the Todd family and their contributions to the community.
There are guided tours of the house, which provide visitors with a glimpse into the daily life of the Todd family and the political and social issues of the time. The tour includes a visit to the family’s parlor, dining room, and bedrooms, as well as the kitchen, which features displays on 19th-century cooking and household management.
In addition to the guided tours, the Mary Todd Lincoln House also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and living history demonstrations. There is also a museum store on site, which offers a range of books, souvenirs, and gifts related to the history of the site.
The Festival of the Bluegrass
The Festival of the Bluegrass is an annual music festival held in Lexington, Kentucky, that celebrates the traditional music and culture of the bluegrass region. The festival has been held every year since 1974 and has become one of the most popular and well-respected bluegrass festivals in the country.
The Festival of the Bluegrass typically takes place over a weekend in June and features a lineup of world-renowned bluegrass musicians, as well as local and regional acts. Performances take place on multiple stages throughout the festival grounds, which are located at the Kentucky Horse Park.
In addition to the live music, the Festival of the Bluegrass also offers a range of other activities and amenities for attendees. There are craft vendors, food and drink vendors, and a variety of other attractions and activities for all ages.
The festival has a strong tradition of community involvement and volunteerism, and relies on a large team of volunteers to help with all aspects of the event. Many of these volunteers are local residents who are passionate about bluegrass music and the culture of the region.
The Lexington Cemetery
The Lexington Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in Lexington, Kentucky, that has been serving the community since 1849. The cemetery is known for its beautiful grounds, rich history, and many notable residents, and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful and reflective setting.
The Lexington Cemetery features over 170 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, including many mature trees and well-manicured lawns. There are several gardens and monuments throughout the cemetery, including the Henry Clay monument, which honors the famous Kentucky statesman, and the Confederate Soldiers Monument, which pays tribute to the Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War.
The cemetery is also home to many notable residents, including famous politicians, athletes, and artists. Among the most famous residents are Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln, and Keeneland founder Jack Keene.
In addition to its historical significance, the Lexington Cemetery also provides a range of services to the community, including burial and cremation services, genealogical research, and educational programs. The cemetery also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as walking tours, concerts, and art exhibitions.
The Henry Clay Estate
The Henry Clay Estate, also known as Ashland, is a historic site located in Lexington, Kentucky, that was the home of the famous Kentucky statesman and politician, Henry Clay. The estate has been beautifully restored to its 19th-century appearance and is open to the public for tours and events.
The Henry Clay Estate features a beautiful Federal-style mansion, which is surrounded by over 20 acres of gardens and parkland. The mansion features many original furnishings and decorative arts, as well as exhibits and displays that highlight the life and legacy of Henry Clay.
Visitors to the estate can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the many contributions that Henry Clay made to Kentucky and the United States during his lifetime. The estate also features a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and living history demonstrations.
The estate is also home to a variety of educational programs and resources, including workshops, lectures, and research facilities. These programs offer visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of Kentucky, as well as the life and times of Henry Clay and his family.
The Blue Door Smokehouse
The Blue Door Smokehouse is a popular restaurant located in Lexington, Kentucky, that specializes in barbecue and Southern-style cuisine. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its delicious and authentic barbecue, which is cooked low and slow over a wood fire.
The Blue Door Smokehouse offers a range of barbecue dishes, including pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, and chicken, all of which are smoked on site and served with a variety of homemade sauces and sides. In addition to the barbecue, the restaurant also offers a variety of other Southern-style dishes, such as fried chicken, catfish, and collard greens.
The restaurant has a casual and relaxed atmosphere, with a rustic decor and plenty of seating for both indoor and outdoor dining. The Blue Door Smokehouse also offers a variety of craft beers, as well as a selection of wines and cocktails.
Third Street Stuff & Coffee
Third Street Stuff & Coffee is a popular coffee shop and retail store located in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. The shop has a fun and eclectic atmosphere, with a variety of colorful and unique decor and artwork, and a selection of locally made products and gifts.
Third Street Stuff & Coffee serves a variety of coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and baked goods, all made with high-quality and locally sourced ingredients. The coffee shop also offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free options.
In addition to its coffee and food offerings, Third Street Stuff & Coffee also features a retail store that sells a variety of locally made crafts, gifts, and artwork. The store features a range of unique and handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, clothing, and home decor, as well as a selection of books and magazines.
The coffee shop also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as art shows, poetry readings, and live music performances, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the Lexington area.
The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a 734-acre nature preserve located in southern Fayette County, just outside of Lexington, Kentucky. The sanctuary is owned and managed by the city of Lexington and offers visitors a beautiful natural setting to explore and enjoy.
The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary features over 10 miles of hiking trails, which wind through a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and streams. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, nature photography, and other outdoor activities, and are likely to spot a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
In addition to the hiking trails, the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary also features a visitor center, which provides information and exhibits about the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and culture of the region. The visitor center also offers educational programs and events throughout the year, such as guided hikes, workshops, and nature camps for children.
The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a beautiful and serene destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the natural beauty of central Kentucky. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Waveland State Historic Site
Waveland State Historic Site is a beautifully preserved antebellum plantation located in Lexington, Kentucky. The site features a Federal-style mansion that was built in the 1840s and has been lovingly restored to its original condition, as well as several outbuildings that provide a glimpse into life on the plantation during the 19th century.
The mansion at Waveland State Historic Site features a variety of original furnishings and decorative arts, as well as exhibits and displays that provide visitors with an understanding of the social and cultural context of the time. Guided tours of the mansion and outbuildings are available, and provide visitors with an immersive experience of life on the plantation.
In addition to the mansion and outbuildings, Waveland State Historic Site also features beautiful gardens and grounds, which have been restored to their 19th-century appearance. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, which feature a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as a small pond.
The site also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, such as living history demonstrations, workshops, and educational programs for children. The gift shop on site offers a variety of books, souvenirs, and gifts related to the history of the plantation and the culture of the region.
University of Kentucky Art Museum
The University of Kentucky Art Museum is a premier art museum located on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky. The museum features a wide range of art from various cultures and time periods, including American and European art, contemporary art, and art from around the world.
The University of Kentucky Art Museum has a permanent collection of over 4,800 works of art, which include paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photographs. The collection features works by a variety of well-known artists, such as Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder, Joan Miró, and Salvador Dalí, as well as works by many lesser-known artists.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also features a variety of rotating exhibitions and special programs throughout the year, which showcase works of art from local, national, and international artists. These exhibitions and programs provide visitors with a diverse and engaging experience of the world of art.
The museum also features a variety of educational programs and resources, including workshops, lectures, and tours for school groups and community organizations. The museum’s art library is also open to the public, and contains a wide range of books and resources related to the history of art and art criticism.
Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co.
Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. is a brewery and distillery located in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. The company produces a range of craft beers and spirits, using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.
Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. offers guided tours of its facilities, which provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing and distilling processes. Visitors can learn about the history of brewing and distilling in Kentucky, as well as the various techniques and ingredients used to create the company’s products.
The brewery produces a variety of craft beers, including ales, lagers, and stouts, which are available on tap at the company’s on-site pub. The distillery produces a range of spirits, including bourbon, whiskey, and vodka, all of which are available for purchase in the company’s gift shop.
In addition to its brewing and distilling operations, Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, such as live music performances, beer tastings, and festivals. The company’s pub and gift shop are also popular destinations for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of food and drink options, as well as merchandise and souvenirs.
West Sixth Brewing
West Sixth Brewing is a craft brewery located in Lexington, Kentucky. The company was founded in 2012 by a group of friends who shared a passion for good beer and a desire to create a local gathering place where people could come together to enjoy great food, beer, and community.
The brewery features a taproom and restaurant, where visitors can sample a variety of West Sixth Brewing’s beers, as well as a selection of locally sourced food items. The taproom features a relaxed and casual atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating areas that are perfect for groups of all sizes.
West Sixth Brewing produces a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal specialties. The brewery is committed to using high-quality ingredients and sustainable brewing practices, and many of its beers feature locally sourced ingredients, such as hops and grains.
In addition to its taproom and restaurant, West Sixth Brewing also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, such as live music performances, trivia nights, and community gatherings. The brewery is also committed to giving back to the local community, and donates a portion of its profits to local charities and non-profit organizations.
Windy Corner Market
Windy Corner Market is a popular restaurant and market located in the horse country of Lexington, Kentucky. The market is known for its Southern-style cuisine, and for using locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that changes seasonally.
The restaurant features a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating areas that provide beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The menu at Windy Corner Market features a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, as well as a selection of local craft beers and wines.
Some of the signature dishes at Windy Corner Market include the Kentucky Hot Brown, a traditional Kentucky sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, and the fried chicken and waffles, which features crispy fried chicken served over a waffle with syrup and hot sauce.
In addition to its restaurant offerings, Windy Corner Market also features a market area that sells a variety of locally sourced and handcrafted products, such as honey, jams, and artisanal cheeses. The market also offers a selection of sandwiches and salads for takeout, as well as a variety of baked goods and desserts.
McConnell Springs
McConnell Springs is a natural oasis located on the outskirts of Lexington, Kentucky. The site features a natural spring, hiking trails, and a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The springs were originally settled by early pioneers and were used as a source of fresh water and a gathering place for local communities. Today, McConnell Springs is a 26-acre nature preserve, which has been carefully preserved and maintained by the city of Lexington.
Visitors to McConnell Springs can enjoy hiking along the park’s many trails, which wind through a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and wetlands. The park is home to a wide range of plants and animals, including many species of birds, insects, and mammals, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing and nature photography.
In addition to hiking and wildlife viewing, McConnell Springs also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, such as guided hikes, nature walks, and workshops. The park’s visitor center provides information and exhibits about the history and ecology of the area, as well as the cultural traditions of the local communities.
