Lexington

Cities don't get more genteel than Lexington, home of million-dollar houses and multimillion-dollar horses. Once the wealthiest and most cultured city west of the Allegheny Mountains, it was called 'the Athens of the West.' It's home to the University of Kentucky and is the heart of the thoroughbred industry. Pretty Victorian neighborhoods, garden-clad historic properties and small distilleries speckle the compact downtown. Brewery buffs and horse racing fans will find plenty to keep them occupied.

Explore Lexington

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Lexington.

  • Farm

    Thoroughbred Center

    The company that owns the famed Keeneland track also owns this farm where you can see working racehorses up close during 90-minute tours of the stables,…

  • Park

    Kentucky Horse Park

    This educational theme park and equestrian sports center sits on 1200 acres just north of Lexington. Horses representing 50 different breeds live in the…

  • Distillery

    Bluegrass Distillers

    Arguably the best of Lexington’s micro-distillers, it uses blue corn instead of standard corn to make its bourbon, which you’ll learn about from the super…

  • Historic Building

    Ashland

    Part historic home and part public park with storybook gardens, Ashland was the Italianate estate of famed statesman and great compromiser Henry Clay …

  • Distillery

    Barrel House Distilling Co

    A micro-distiller set in the barrel house of the now-defunct Pepper Distillery. It bottles bourbon, two moonshines (one aged in bourbon barrels), vodka…

  • Gallery

    Lexington Art League at Loudoun House

    Art and architecture buffs won't want to miss this edgy, contemporary visual arts gallery housed in a freestanding American Gothic Revival mansion in the…

  • Museum

    Headley-Whitney Museum

    The museum houses a 1940s Hollywood jewelry designer's remarkable collection of stones, trinkets and dollhouses. Don't miss the Shell Grotto, an old…

  • Historic Building

    Mary Todd-Lincoln House

    This modest 1806 house has articles from the first lady's childhood and her years as Abe's wife, including original White House pieces. Tours are held…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Lexington.

  • Activities