There are many things to do in Lexington and with the University of Kentucky located in the heart of the city, heading to a football game or a basketball game to cheer on the Wildcats is a spirited event that should be added to your Lexington travel itinerary. So, whether you’re here to see a football game at Kroger Field (formerly known as Commonwealth Stadium) or catch a basketball game at Rupp Arena, use our guide to game day at University of Kentucky to make the most out of your college sports experience.
Before the game
If you are in town prior to the game learn all about the “Big Blue” traditions, in both education and sports, with a free guided tour. View the University of Kentucky campus and get a feel for the spirit of Wildcat country on the Big Blue Traditions Tour. If you are a Wildcat basketball fan this is a must!
Transportation & parking
During home football games, LexTran operates shuttles between downtown and the stadium. The three main pick-up points are Chatham’s Restaurant, Lexington Transit Center and Rupp Arena. For additional transportation information download The University of Kentucky’s Game Day APP to gain access to parking, shuttles, RV information and many more transportation options.
Ample parking is available at Rupp Arena and surrounding areas for basketball games. Refer to their parking map here. If you don’t plan on driving use LexTran for shuttle and bus service to the arena.
Where to eat
If you don’t plan on tailgating or eating at the stadium then grab a bite at one of these tasty eats near campus. Or if you don’t have tickets to the game, these are also great spots to watch and cheer on the Wildcats.
Winchell’s Restaurant & Bar – Sporting 25 TVs, friendly wait-staff, and food too good for a sports bar, Winchell’s Restaurant & Bar is Lexington’s best sports bar.
The Ruddy Duck Grille – Don’t miss a minute of the action while rooting for the Cats with The Ruddy Duck Grille’s big screen TV. Formerly known as the Cheapside Bar & Grill, patrons can enjoy libations from their craft cocktail menu and sample some fish & chips Bourbon ale battered cod or their house smoked brisket street tacos. Bar food never tasted as good as it does here.
Campus Pub – Get rowdy with other Wildcat fans at the Campus Pub. Tasty drinks, mouth-watering bar food, and unwavering school spirit make this the place to be to watch the game.
Drake’s – With a mixture of great food and drinks, Drake’s gameday atmosphere will get you in the spirit. With 20 TVs and some of the town’s most fanatical Kentucky football and basketball fans, this no-frills establishment is a great option for those wanting to cheer on the Wildcats!
Where to stay
Only a 12-minute drive from the University of Kentucky campus, Bluegrass Extended Stay is the ideal location for your game day activities. Choose from a variety of rooms such as our Standard King room or our Deluxe Double Bed with Jacuzzi. With our budget-friendly prices, you can’t afford not to stay with us when in town for the next University of Kentucky sporting event! So, consider our convenient accommodations at Bluegrass Extended Stay when booking your Lexington, KY vacation.
