Weekend Guide to Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky is known for its association with the horse racing industry. While most visitors come for the races, there’s so much more to see in this college town, home to the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University.

Lexington is also located along the Bourbon Trail, lined with both craft and large bourbon distilleries. The craft beer scene is thriving as well and the restaurants in the city are among the best anywhere.

But if horses are your calling, be sure to visit during one of the races at Keeneland, one of the oldest racetracks in the country. You can also tour local horse farms that have been run by generations of families and visit the International Museum of the Horse for background information on the industry.

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What to Do in Lexington

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate–This elegant estate was once home to Henry Clay, a statesman known as the Great Compromiser. You can tour the 18-room mansion and its stunning grounds, which have been restored to the condition of when the family lived there, including much of the original furnishings. 120 Sycamore Road

Distilleries- As Lexington is located on the Bourbon Trail, you can easily drive to the nearby bourbon distilleries including Castle & Key, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace. The area is also home to a number of craft breweries, which are on the Brewgrass Trail.

International Museum of the Horse– You can learn everything you ever wanted to know about the horse racing and breeding industry at the International Museum of the Horse. As a part of the Smithsonian-affiliated Kentucky Horse Park, there are exhibits on horse racing in China and Arabia as well as modern racing. 4089 Iron Works Parkway

Historic homes- Lexington also has a number of historic homes worth visiting, including the Mary Todd Lincoln House, where the First Lady grew up, the Hunt-Morgan House, Waveland State Historic Site, home to a relative of Daniel Boone, and the Latrobe House.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill– This rural attraction outside of Lexington has a recreated village from Shaker times. You can see the 3,000 acres of hiking and riding paths and watch demonstrations on Shaker crafts. They run a number of activities like trail runs and paddleboard yoga on the river. 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg

Tours- There is no shortage of ways to explore the city, including a walking food tour that takes you to Lexington’s best eateries and the horse farm tour, which brings guests to the farms that raise the horses that enter Kentucky’s famous races.

Where to Eat in Lexington

AZUR– The modern decor makes Azur unique in the Lexington dining scene but the food matches it. Lobster crepes are an addictive appetizer and the portions on the main dishes are large enough to share or take home to enjoy later. 3070 Lakecrest Circle, Suite 550, (859) 296-1007

Bourbon on Rye– As the name would imply, this restaurant focuses on the state’s famous spirit, served straight up and in cocktails, along with pub fare like burgers and sandwiches. 115 West Main Street, (859) 286-5153

Coles 735 Main– The atmosphere at Cole’s, with its mood lighting and large windows facing the busy street, make it a favorite of locals during the week as much as on the weekends. They may be known for their steaks, but the other main dishes are just as delicious, especially the rainbow trout. Try the panko fried avocado, a crowd favorite, paired with one of their bourbon cocktails. 735 East Main Street, (859) 266-9000

Doodles– A former gas station, this restaurant is a local favorite for its all-day breakfast with special items like the Kentucky Hot Brown Quesadilla and egg in a biscuit. They proudly serve local produce and ingredients. 262 North Limestone Street, (859) 317-8507

DV8 Kitchen– The restaurant, with multiple outposts in the city, hires those recovering from substance misuse. The menu includes baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, salads, and tacos. Multiple locations

Nourished Folks– This lovely cafe inside Greyline Station has vegan and healthy options like quinoa bowls, soups, salads, and sandwiches. 101 West Loudon Avenue, Suite 168, (859) 379-4925

Where to Stay in Lexington

21C Museum Hotel Lexington– The boutique hotel downtown is a part of the art-focused chain with colorful penguins and an in-house restaurant. 167 West Main Street

The Campbell House– Set near the hospital district, the Campbell House has an old Kentucky vibe with onsite dining, free parking, and free WiFi. 1375 South Broadway

Elwood Hotel and Suites– Right next door to the Campbell House, the Elwood is called the first “plant hotel,” with in-room foliage, colorful murals, a fitness center, and a popular restaurant. 444 Parkway Drive

Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast– The historic home turned inn offers a daily home-made breakfast, Victorian décor, and individually styled rooms. 507 North Broadway

The Manchester Hotel– The chic hotel offers accommodations with a terrace, private parking, a restaurant and a bar. 941 Manchester Street

Origin Lexington– The Wyndham property takes its inspiration from the Bluegrass State, with an in-house restaurant and fitness center. 4174 Rowan

The Sire Hotel– Located in the former Gratz Park Inn space, the hotel has a cozy fireplace space, a restaurant, and easy access to downtown. 120 West Second Street

Rentals- Airbnb is another good option for a more local experience without breaking the bank. This historic home is close to everything.

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