Buy TicketsLexington Experience Guide
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Welcome | RESTAURANTS | HORSE COUNTRY | Bourbonland | Bars & Breweries| UNEXPECTED EXPERIENCES| Outdoor Adventures| itineraries
Welcome to Lexington!
Welcome to Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World. While you’re here for racing at Keeneland, make time to experience even more of Lexington, from great restaurants and bars to live music, local attractions, shopping and more.
For even more inspiration and experiences that will make you say “Whoa,” check out VisitLEX. You’ll find trip-planning inspiration, travel tips, a full calendar of events and plenty of ideas for making the most of your time in Lexington.
Need a recommendation while you’re here? Stop by the Lexington Visitors Center for personalized suggestions, helpful resources and VisitLEX guides and itineraries, plus unique Lexington merchandise.
Restaurants
Named the #6 Best Food City in the U.S., by Condé Nast Traveler, Lexington is home to a vibrant culinary scene with experiences to delight every palate – from global cuisine to Southern staples rooted in farm-to-table traditions and Kentucky’s agricultural heritage.
Horse Country
Surrounded by rolling bluegrass landscapes, 450 horse farms, and iconic equestrian venues, Lexington is known as the Horse Capital of the World for a reason. Get up close and personal with past and future champions on a horse farm tour, or dive deeper into the industry by visiting equine veterinary clinics and museums. Through Visit Horse Country, it’s easy to connect with some of Kentucky’s most immersive and authentic Thoroughbred experiences.
Old Friends
A retirement and rescue facility for former racehorses. Get up close and personal with several Kentucky Derby winners.
Lane's End Farm
On more than 2,300 pristine acres in the heart of Central Kentucky, Lane’s End is one of the world’s premier Thoroughbred farms. Learn more about the breadth of the Thoroughbred business as you meet legendary stallions as well as mares and foals.
Spendthrift
Sitting on over 1,200 acres, Spendthrift Farm is home to several Kentucky Derby and Breeders' Cup winners. Visitors may also enjoy the the B. Wayne Hughes Visitor Center, which showcases a collection of trophies, artifacts, and racing memorabilia.
KY Horse Park
Enjoy horseback riding, and visit a showcase of museums, galleries, theaters, and working farm exhibits.
Bourbonland
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned enthusiast, Lexington is the perfect place to explore and savor the rich history and craftsmanship behind each bottle of Kentucky bourbon. Experience the best of Bourbonland with tours and tastings at one of Lexington’s eight craft distilleries, or venture deeper into Bourbon Country for a taste of one of Kentucky’s heritage brands.
Bars & Breweries
While we're proud of our bourbon heritage, we’re also home to a vibrant bar and craft beer scene—with unique breweries and diverse flavors. From bourbon bars to craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and lively patios, there's a spot for every taste.
Book Club Wine Room
Enjoy a drink and slip into the hidden Book Club Speakeasy within the District 7 Social Hall, a cozy, literary inspired speakeasy concept featuring wines from small vineyards alongside cocktails, bourbon, and non-alcoholic options.
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.
The Obstinate Sons
A cozy restaurant & bourbon bar located in the heart of Lexington's Chevy Chase neighborhood. Guests can enjoy southern comfort food fusions, unique cocktails, and rare vintage bourbon by the glass!
The Grove
With a mix of craft brews, cocktails, wines, and charcuterie, plus a charming patio, this Lexington gem is one of the city's most eclectic hot spots.
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.
Outdoor Adventures
Spend a day, or two, with friends, surrounded by the legendary landscape of Lexington, KY, the Horse Capital of the World.
Raven Run
A 734-acre preserve where scenic trails, wildflowers, and wildlife meet sweeping views of the Kentucky River Palisades.
Boone Creek Outdoors
Offers adventurous outdoor experiences with activities like ziplining canopy tours, guided hikes, and fishing access, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Kentucky landscape.
McConnell Springs
A scenic park known for its historic significance, peaceful walking trails, and natural spring that played a key role in the city's founding.
UK Arboretum
The Arboretum is the state’s botanical garden. The 100 acres includes plants and trees from Kentucky’s seven physiographic regions.
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 during Keeneland season! 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 signature Lexington experiences that are always in high demand. Visitors can also explore at their own pace with self-guided experiences like the Historic Downtown Walking Tour, Bluegrass Country Driving Tour, and African American Heritage Trail.
add an extra day
With plenty of other unique experiences to have in Lexington, certainly plan to stay long and extend your trip 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.