Skip to main content

Lexington Experience Guide

Brought to you by Visitlex

Welcome to Lexington!

We're thrilled that you're visiting us at Keeneland this April. Discover how you can add even more fun to your experience by exploring all that the Horse Capital of the World has in store for you. While Lexington may be famous for our world-class equine and bourbon experiences, there’s so much more to do here. Take a look for yourself! 

Be sure to check out our Digital Visitor’s Guide below for insider tips and must-see attractions, and don't miss stopping by the Lexington Visitors Center during your stay for personalized recommendations and assistance, including resources like the VisitLEX Visitors Guide, itinerary planning, and unique retail offerings.  

Restaurants


No matter what you're craving, Lexington has a restaurant that will hit the spot, from global cuisine to Southern staples. So be sure to come hungry—and don't forget to save room for dessert. 

Doodles

Doodles

Doodles

Learn More

This spot has become a trendy spot for both breakfast and lunch, that specializes in local and organic ingredients whenever possible.

33 staves

33 Staves at Origin Hotel

33 Staves at Origin Hotel

Learn More

Located inside The Origin Hotel, this eatery features modern seasonal dishes made from handpicked local ingredients.

lockbox

Lockbox

Lockbox

Learn More

Located within 21c Museum Hotel, experience fresh, farm-to-table options that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

Learn More

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop's cuisine marries Sri Lankan techniques and ingredients with classic Southern dishes.

Eppings

Epping's

Epping's

Learn More

Located in a renovated historic building, Executive Chef Cole Arimes turns menu items into works of art.

Omakase

Omakase

Omakase

Learn More

Offering traditional and innovative sushi dishes, skillfully cooked to perfection, every item is prepared to dazzle your senses.

granddam at the manchester

Granddam at the Manchester

Granddam at the Manchester

Learn More

The Manchester's expansive Appalachian dining hall offers a reimagined Bluegrass fare from local farms.

goodfellas

Goodfellas

Goodfellas

Learn More

Size definitely matters at this beloved pizza joint and bourbon bar, which serves pizza slices bigger than your face.

track kitchen

Keeneland Track Kitchen

Keeneland Track Kitchen

Learn More

Rub elbows with jockeys, owners and trainers while enjoying a hearty and inexpensive meal.

Horse Country


There's no better way to experience the essence of Lexington than by immersing yourself in the beauty of the Bluegrass. With picture perfect horse farms in every direction, it’s no surprise that Lexington is the Horse Capital of the World. Click here to book your tour and come face to face with Kentucky Derby winners, and the foals destined to be tomorrow’s champions. 

Mill Ridge Farm

Old Friends

A retirement and rescue facility for former racehorses. Get up close and personal with several Kentucky Derby winners.

Learn More

Mill Ridge Farm

Mill Ridge Farm

Known for their mares and foals, you can take a behind-the-scenes look at this breeding operation.

Learn More

 

stonestreet

Stonestreet

Priding themselves on letting horses exist as naturally as possible - see horses out in the rolling hills of the Bluegrass.

Learn More

Kentucky Horse Park

KY Horse Park

Enjoy horseback riding, and visit a showcase of museums, galleries, theaters, and working farm exhibits.

Learn More

 

Bourbonland


Just below Lexington’s surface there’s a limestone shelf, and the natural spring water that passes through it gives this place life. With 18 innovative distilleries and plenty of bourbon bars and tasting rooms, there’s no shortage of places to experience our native spirit firsthand. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find there is so much to savor in the rich history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. 

castle and key

Castle & Key

Castle & Key

Learn More

A Bourbon distillery featuring a limestone castle, elaborate gazebos, sunken gardens, and spring house.

maker's mark

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark

Learn More

A picturesque distillery in the countryside of Kentucky, known for its iconic red wax-dipped bottles.

James E Pepper

James E. Pepper

James E. Pepper

Learn More

Located in the exciting Distillery District, you can take a tour of the historic distillery, which includes a tasting.

Fresh Bourbon

Fresh Bourbon

Fresh Bourbon

Learn More

Recognized as the first African American-owned and produced bourbon since slavery, they offer an unforgettable experience.

Barrel House

Barrel House

Barrel House

Learn More

Enjoy a tour and tasting and the unique gift shop, plus local fare and craft cocktails from The Elkhorn Tavern.

Whiskey Bear

Whiskey Bear & Craft Kitchen

Whiskey Bear & Craft Kitchen

Learn More

Voted one of America's best bourbon bars, Whiskey Bear has a wide range of hard-to-find spirits and hosts special tasting events.

Thirsty fox

Thirsty Fox

Thirsty Fox

Learn More

Located in Lexington's renovated historic courthouse, this restaurant and bar serves delicious American fare and handcrafted cocktails.

RD1

RD1

RD1

Learn More

Telling the story of Lexington's history of bourbon, RD1 has brought back Kentucky's first registered distillery.

Bars & Breweries


While we're proud of our bourbon heritage, Lexington is also home to a thriving craft beer culture with a variety of unique breweries. These neighborhood favorites offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences for beer and cocktail enthusiasts to enjoy.  

mirror twin

Mirror Twin

Their philosophy aims to celebrate the "duality of beer" by always having twin drafts on tap that are identical in grain recipes but with one small variation.

Learn More

 

the burl

Burl Brew

Located in the Distillery District, and attached to The Burl Live music venue, Burl Brew offers no-fuss beers and a cozy and hip atmosphere.

Learn More

west sixth

West Sixth

The taproom features several rotating fresh brews and the beer garden makes for a great place to chat and try out a pint or flight.

Learn More

the grove

The Grove

A combination of brews, cocktails, wines, charcuterie, and food-truck eats... this spot is one of Lexington's newest and most eclectic hot spots.

Learn More

 

Unexpected Experiences


If you're eager to dive deep into the vibrant tapestry of Lexington's local culture, there are plenty of unexpected activities to be explored. Take a walk through the wildflowers at the Arboretum or enjoy local live music - there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

 

TeeDees

Tee Dee's Lounge

Tee Dee's Lounge

Learn More

Tee Dee's Lounge is a hidden gem and renowned as a jazz hotspot. Open on Monday’s only, this nightclub has been a mainstay in our community for decades. 

arboretum

UK Arboretum

UK Arboretum

Learn More

The Arboretum is the state’s botanical garden. The 100 acres includes plants and trees from Kentucky’s seven physiographic regions.

Thursday night live

Thursday Night Live

Thursday Night Live

Learn More

Every Thursday night from April  - October, locals and visitors enjoy live music downtown at Thursday Night Live.

Farmers market

Lexington Farmer's Markets

Lexington Farmer's Markets

Learn More

Every Saturday, the Farmers' Market sets up downtown at Henry A. Tandy Park with over 65 members selling Kentucky Proud products.

summit at fritz farm

The Summit Shopping

The Summit Shopping

Learn More

The Summit at Fritz Farm is a finely curated, mixed-use destination boasting nearly 70 shops, and 25 dining options.

21c

21C Museum

21C Museum

Learn More

More than a hotel, 21c Lexington features contemporary art exhibition spaces that are open free of charge to the public.

Bites of the Bluegrass

Bites of the Bluegrass

Bites of the Bluegrass

Learn More

Your foodie guide will take you on an insightful tour where you will taste delicious farm-to-fork cuisine and learn about Lexington along the way.

Tips & Tricks


Make sure your experience at Keeneland is nothing short of spectacular with our insider tips and tricks for a seamless journey. Here are a few pointers so that you can make the most of your experience. 

Plan Your Stay in advance

Accommodations fill up quickly when Keeneland is racing! Click here to take a look at where VisitLEX recommends you stay, nearby to Keeneland.

Book your tours in advance

Dining, Bourbon Distillery, and Horse Country tours are popular during Keeneland racing!

add an extra day

With plenty of other unique experiences to have in Lexington, certainly plan to stay long and extend your trip beyond your day at the races to see all Lexington has to offer. Even better, flights on Tuesdays usually have better rates!

remember to check the weather

The forecast in Lexington is known to shift, so it's always a good idea to pack a variety of outfit options.


Customized Itineraries

Looking for more? Check out VisitLEX.com to connect you with all the best Lexington has to offer.

Follow the “Blue Horse” on social media @visitlex to connect with the best of Lexington! Whether it's exploring historical landmarks or discovering hidden gems, we've got you covered. Don’t forget to share your adventures with us by using #ShareTheLEX.