Named as one of the top destinations on the rise, Lexington, KY is quickly becoming a travel destination for many. From the culinary scene to the horse tracks, Lexington, KY offers a wide variety of activities to keep you busy.
Whether you are staying for a short weekend or an extended stay, read here for our Lexington, KY travel guide and browse our budget-friendly accommodations at Bluegrass Extended Stay during your vacation in the Bluegrass state.
Outstanding culinary scene
Recently named as one of 30 “most exciting food cities”, according to Zagat, Lexington has come to be known for its culinary scene. The recent opening of The Barn at The Summit at Fritz Farm is one of the main reasons for the recognition. The Barn is Kentucky’s first food hall, a dining trend that has caught on in most major cities. Lexington, KY hosts an eclectic gathering of eateries that span many different cultures such as Japanese, Mexican, and Chinese. Here are our top tasty eateries:
- Shake Shack
- Honeywood
- Panda Cuisine
- Nat’s
- Pasta Garage
- GirlsGirlsGirls Burrito
- Tortilleria y Taqueria RAMIREZ
Bourbon country
The culinary scene may be on the rise, but Lexington’s bourbon is just as strong, as the unofficial capital of Bourbon Country. As one of the major stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Lexington boasts three different distilleries and countless bourbon bars where you can sample bourbons from around the world. A trip to Lexington would not be complete without a visit to one of these three distilleries:
For some crafty libations using local bourbons and whiskeys, visit these bourbon bars:
Horse capital of the world
Despite the long-standing debate between Lexington, KY, and Ocala, FL as the horse capital of the world, Lexington still claims this title. Surrounded by over 400 horse farms, Lexington boasts numerous activities that highlight why they are the horse capital of the world. With a record history of Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown winners, Lexington has produced some of the most legendary horses in the world. See our list for different activities that celebrate the history of the horse in Lexington, KY.
- Kentucky Horse Park
- International Museum of the Horse
- Thoroughbred Park
- Horse Farm Tours
- Keeneland Race Course
If planning a visit to Keeneland during your time in Lexington, KY, use our guide to Keeneland to get the most out of your day at the races.
Rich history
The history of Lexington is embedded within the many buildings, houses, and battlefields that shaped the future of this town. Whether you are looking for relics of the past or examples of historic architecture, you will find plenty of historic homes and sites to explore in Lexington, KY.
- McConnell Springs
- Henry Clay Estate
- Mary Todd Lincoln House
- Hunt-Morgan House
- Waveland
- Latrobe House
- Patterson Cabin
- Old Fayette County Courthouse
- First National Building
- Lexington Cemetery
- Loudan House
Scenic beauty
Part of Lexington, KY’s attraction is its beautiful countryside and the many outdoor activities that are available to you. Find your way to explore the outdoors by hopping on a bike, a horse, or in a canoe and discover the legendary beauty of the Bluegrass Region for yourself.
Biking
Bring your own bike or rent one in town and bike one of these trails that highlight the landscape and history of Lexington.
- TransAmerica Bike Trail
- Legacy Trail
Water activities
Discover Lexington’s shorelines by boating, casting in a line or even sailing. The possibilities are endless.
- Jacobson Park – best for sailing with paddle-boat rentals available
- Elkhorn Creek – excellent bass fishing
- Herrington Lake – best for fishing and boating
- Kentucky River – best for fishing and boating
- Laurel River Lake – best for trout fishing
- Cave Run Lake – great for sailing and fishing
Hiking
Discover the beauty of Lexington’s countryside by foot and take a hike on one of these trails.
- Kentucky River Palisades – beautiful limestone cliffs that run along the Kentucky River. Just southeast of Lexington this is a hiker’s paradise.
- Raven Run Nature Sanctuary – wildflowers, creek beds, spacious meadows and green forests, this is a great day-escape from the city.
Horseback riding
Give your legs a rest and enjoy the expansive scenery of Lexington by taking a horseback ride. Scenic trail rides include the following:
- Kentucky Horse Park
- Big Red Riding Stables
- Deer Run Stables
- Whispering Woods
- Kenridge Farm
Where to stay
When making your accommodations for your stay in Lexington, KY, consider our rooms at the Bluegrass Extended Stay. With budget-friendly accommodations such as our Standard Double to our Deluxe King, we have options to suit most everyone’s needs. So, grab our Lexington, KY travel guide and head out to discover all the great things this city has to offer!
