Lexington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Lexington, Kentucky with this comprehensive tour guide.


  • Introduction to Lexington

Welcome to Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World! Located in the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky in the southern part of the United States of America, Lexington is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and equestrian events. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a virtual tour of Lexington and help you plan your trip to this paradise on earth.

  • List of Places to Visit in Lexington

Lexington is a hub of cultural and natural attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the must-visit places in Lexington:

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
  1. The Mary Todd Lincoln House - the childhood home of the wife of President Abraham Lincoln
  2. Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate - the home of the “Great Compromiser” and one of the most influential politicians in American history
  3. The Kentucky Horse Park - a museum, park, and equine center that celebrates the history, culture, and legacy of horses in Kentucky
  4. The Aviation Museum of Kentucky - a museum dedicated to the history and science of aviation in Kentucky
  • Natural Attractions of Lexington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
  1. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary - a 734-acre nature reserve that features hiking trails, woodland, meadows, and streams
  2. The Lexington Arboretum - a botanical garden with walking trails and picnic areas
  3. The Legacy Trail - a 12-mile paved path that connects downtown Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park
  4. The Red River Gorge - a natural wonder with rugged cliffs, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails
  • Hiking/Biking Routes of Lexington

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice cyclist, Lexington has plenty of trails to explore. Here are a few of our favorites:

  1. The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary Trail - a moderate 3.6-mile hike that passes through the forest, meadows, and streams
  2. The Legacy Trail - a 12.5-mile paved path that connects downtown Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park and offers stunning views of the countryside
  3. The Thoroughbred Trail - a 7-mile loop that takes you through the heart of horse country and past several horse farms
  • Best Things to Do in Lexington: Activities and Tours

Lexington offers a range of activities and tours to suit all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Lexington:

  1. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park - home to retired racehorses, horse shows, tours, and exhibits
  2. Take a bourbon trail tour - learn about the history, making, and tasting of bourbon, Kentucky’s famous distilled spirit
  3. Explore downtown Lexington - visit the local shops, bars, restaurants, and art galleries
  4. Attend a University of Kentucky basketball game - experience the electric atmosphere of one of the most successful college basketball programs in history
  • Week-Long Itinerary for Lexington

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Lexington that highlights the best of what this city has to offer:

Day 1: Visit the Kentucky Horse Park, take a horseback riding tour, and explore the museum and exhibits. Day 2: Take a bourbon trail tour and visit some of the distilleries in the area. Day 3: Hike the trails at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary and have a picnic lunch. Day 4: Visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House and the Ashland estate, and learn about two prominent historical figures from Kentucky. Day 5: Take a day trip to the Red River Gorge for some rock climbing, hiking, or zip-lining. Day 6: Explore downtown Lexington, visit the local shops, bars, and restaurants. Day 7: Attend a University of Kentucky basketball game and experience the electrifying atmosphere of the Rupp Arena.

  • Food and Drink Scene of Lexington

Lexington has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of options to satisfy every craving. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

  • Must-Try Dishes
  1. Hot Brown - an open-faced sandwich with turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce, and cheese, originally created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville
  2. Burgoo - a hearty stew made with vegetables, meats, and seasonings, originated as a traditional dish in Kentucky
  3. Kentucky Fried Chicken - the famous fried chicken chain started in Louisville, Kentucky
  • Local Beverages
  1. Bourbon - Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and Lexington has several distilleries that offer tours, tastings, and a glimpse into the history of bourbon in the state.
  2. Ale-8-One - a soda made in Winchester, Kentucky, that has a distinct ginger flavor and is popular with locals.
  • Where to Stay in Lexington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lexington has a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lexington:

  1. 21c Museum Hotel Lexington - a boutique hotel with contemporary art exhibitions, Michelin-starred dining, and a spa.
  2. The Sire Hotel Lexington - a luxury hotel with modern amenities, a rooftop bar, and a fitness center.
  3. Lexington Hostel - a budget-friendly option for backpackers and solo travelers.
  • What to Buy in Lexington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Lexington:

  1. Bourbon - take home a bottle of Kentucky bourbon from one of the local distilleries.
  2. Horse-related souvenirs - Lexington is horse country, and you can find a range of horse-themed items, from t-shirts to sculptures.
  3. Handmade crafts - visit local shops and markets to find unique, handmade items like pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
  • Local Culture and Customs of Lexington

Lexington has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its equestrian history, bourbon making, and Southern hospitality. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and manners and politeness are highly valued.

  • Best Time to Visit Lexington

The best time to visit Lexington is from late March to early June and from mid-September to mid-November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are plenty of festivals, horse shows, and other outdoor events to attend.

  • Do’s and Don’ts of Lexington

Here are some things to do and avoid while in Lexington:

  • Do:
  1. Try bourbon and other local drinks.
  2. Visit horse farms and attend horse shows.
  3. Explore the local food scene, including Southern cuisine.
  4. Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Don’t:
  1. Ignore the rules and safety precautions at horse shows and tours.
  2. Disturb the natural habitats and wildlife while hiking or exploring nature reserves.
  3. Underestimate the power of horse-related allergies.

  • Safety and Health

  • Safety in Lexington

Lexington is a relatively safe city, but it’s always wise to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips:

  1. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
  2. Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.
  3. Lock your car and don’t leave valuables visible.
  4. Follow the rules and safety precautions while engaging in outdoor adventures and tours.
  • Health in Lexington

Lexington has several hospitals and medical facilities that provide quality health care. It’s always wise to travel with insurance and necessary medical supplies.

  • Getting to Lexington: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near Lexington

The Blue Grass Airport (LEX) is the main airport that serves Lexington and its surrounding areas. It is situated about 10 miles west of downtown Lexington and offers multiple daily flights to several cities in the U.S.

  • Bus Stations Near Lexington

The Greyhound Bus Station in Lexington is located downtown and offers daily bus services to several cities in the U.S.

  • Other Options

Renting a car or taking a train are also viable options.

  • How to Get Around in Lexington

Lexington has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trolley tours. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and rental cars are also available.

  • Where to Go Next from Lexington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring after Lexington:

  1. Louisville - a vibrant city known for its bourbon, baseball, and hot brown sandwich.
  2. Mammoth Cave National Park - the world’s largest known cave system.
  3. Cincinnati - a bustling metropolis located along the Ohio River, with a rich cultural scene, sports, and riverboat cruises.
  • Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive travel guide to Lexington has helped you plan your trip and inspired you to explore this scenic and cultural destination. Be sure to soak up the Southern hospitality, sample the local food and drinks, and take in the natural beauty of this unique corner of the world. Happy travels!

View of Lexington taken from a helicopter. View of Lexington taken from a helicopter. Mary Todd Lincoln House, childhood home of Pres. Lincoln's wife Mary Todd Lincoln House, childhood home of Pres. Lincoln's wife View from Kentucky River overlook in Raven Run Nature Sanctuary View from Kentucky River overlook in Raven Run Nature Sanctuary