Currency
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Lexington is the heart of Kentuckyโs horse-racing tradition, offering unparalleled access to the world of thoroughbred breeding and racing. The city is surrounded by scenic Bluegrass Country, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. As one of the worldโs foremost destinations for equestrian events, Lexington draws both seasoned horse racing fans and newcomers alike. Additionally, the city is rich in bourbon heritage, offering tours of distilleries that produce some of the finest whiskey in the world.
Airport
Blue Grass Airport
Cost of Living (10)
Moderate
Minimal List TL;DR
Places to See
500 Alumni Dr
4.8
Free
9 AM - 6 PM
Beautiful gardens with diverse plant species
Get To:
Yes, parking available
A peaceful retreat in the city
3501 Lexington Rd
4.8
$$
9 AM - 5 PM
Historic Shaker community with beautiful gardens
Get To:
Yes, parking available
201 N Mill St
4.6
$$
10 AM - 5 PM
A key historical landmark
Gratz Park area
4.6
Free
24/7
578 W Main St
4.6
$
10 AM - 5 PM
A significant piece of American history
388 Raven Run Dr
4.6
Free
7 AM - 7 PM
Scenic trails and nature experiences
Get To:
Yes, parking available
A hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts
1850 Hiawatha Trail
4.6
$
10 AM - 5 PM
Heritage breed farm with tours and events
Get To:
Yes, parking available
Educational and fun for all ages
401 W Short St
4.5
$$
Varies
362 N Martin Luther King Blvd
4.5
$
10 AM - 5 PM
A creative hub for learning
Must Visit:
Horse racing, bourbon distillery tours
Lexington is home to the largest thoroughbred auction in the U.S. and hosts prestigious events like the Kentucky Horse Show. The city is also known for its bourbon distilleries.
Places to Eat
701 E Main St
4.9
$$
12 PM - 9 PM
Perfect for dessert lovers
1800 Pavilion Way
4.7
$$
11 AM - 10 PM
Southern-inspired dishes with a twist
Get To:
Yes, parking available
A local favorite for Southern cuisine
307 W Third St
4.6
$$
7 AM - 4 PM
A local hangout spot
Various Locations
4.5
$
Varies
Fun dining experience
Must Try:
Southern cuisine, bourbon, fried chicken, biscuits. Lexington is known for its Southern comfort food, from fried chicken to biscuits, and its bourbon, a signature drink of Kentucky.
Places to Drink
501 W Sixth St
4.8
$$
4 PM - 10 PM
A must-visit for craft beer lovers
501 W 6th St
4.7
$$
1 PM - 6 PM
A unique experience for bourbon aficionados
1280 Moores Mill Rd
4.6
$$
12 PM - 5 PM
Perfect for wine enthusiasts
Music / Dance:
Bluegrass, country, Appalachian folk music. Lexingtonโs music scene embraces the sounds of bluegrass, country, and Appalachian folk music, all of which echo through the cityโs vibrant venues.
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Agriculture, horse breeding
Lexington
"Lexington, where every race and every racecourse tells a story of tradition and passion."
Places to Shop
140 E Main St
4.8
Free
Saturday 7 AM - 2 PM
Weekly market with local vendors and fresh produce
Get To:
Yes, parking available
A great way to experience local culture
210 N Limestone
4.7
$$
10 AM - 6 PM
Curated selection of vintage clothing
Get To:
Yes, parking available
A treasure trove for vintage finds
460 Sland Dr
4.6
Free
Thursday 4 PM - 7 PM
A community favorite
300 E Third St
4.5
$$
Varies
A cultural gem in the heart of Lexington
Luxury
For More Tips Read Further
Equestrian
horse racing, scenic equestrian farms, and historical significance in the heart of the Bluegrass region.
Home to the Kentucky Horse Park and thoroughbred races
Lexington, Kentucky, is known as the โHorse Capital of the World,โ and is home to the Kentucky Horse Park, thoroughbred racing events, and some of the worldโs most famous horse farms. Visitors can tour beautiful horse farms, attend the Kentucky Derby, and experience the thrill of horse racing in one of the most prestigious locations for equestrian sports. Lexington is also home to an incredible food scene, including bourbon distilleries that produce some of the finest spirits in the world.
Watch Out
Watchย out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Lexington
Transportation
Bus system, nearby airport, highways
City Overview
Lexington, known as the Horse Capital of the World, is famous for its thoroughbred horse racing, beautiful horse farms, and rich bourbon culture. Itโs a vibrant city with a mix of history and Southern charm.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Kentucky Horse Park. Afternoon: Explore the Mary Todd Lincoln House. Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Tour a horse farm. Afternoon: Visit the Distillery District. Evening: Attend a local live music event. - Day 3: Morning: Explore the University of Kentucky campus. Afternoon: Visit the Ashland estate. Evening: Enjoy a bourbon tasting.
Current Trends
- Culinary trends: Increasing interest in farm-to-table dining. - Eco-tourism: Growth in horse-related tourism experiences. - Cultural events: Rising focus on local arts and music.
Local Events Guide
- Kentucky Bourbon Festival (September): Celebrating the regionโs bourbon heritage. - Lexington Pride Festival (June): Celebrating the local LGBTQ+ community. - Bluegrass Fair (July): Featuring local crafts, music, and food.
Local Insider Tips
- Visit the Kentucky Horse Park to learn about horse history. - Explore local distilleries for bourbon tasting. - Enjoy the historic architecture downtown.
Sustainable Travel
- Sustainable initiatives: Emphasis on supporting local farms and distilleries. - Community engagement: Programs promoting local artists and businesses. - Conservation efforts: Protecting equestrian heritage and landscapes.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
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Ready to see through a localโs eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you wonโt find in typical travel guides.
Whether itโs a cozy cafรฉ tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart โperfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
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