LEXINGTON, Kentucky — Anyone looking for a blend of history, horses and bourbon tastings might consider visiting Lexington, Kentucky.
Perhaps best known as the home to the University of Kentucky, Lexington offers a mix of urban flair and beautiful countryside — all within a short drive.
The best part of Lexington may be its size. While it’s the 60th-most populous city in the country and the 14th-most populous city in the Southeast, it doesn’t feel like an insurmountably large metropolis.
Lexington is perhaps best known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” and while that’s an important part of the city’s history and culture, it’s just one aspect.
Horse Capital of the World
Living up to its name, thoroughbred horse farms dot the landscape, and visitors can tour many of these farms to learn more about the Bluegrass State’s one-of-a-kind equestrian heritage.
One way to experience these farms is a train excursion via the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum in Versailles. Its tracks run adjacent to several stunning farms.
No visit to Lexington would be complete without enjoying a live race at the Keeneland Race Course. This picturesque track offers live races in April and October.
History and Culture
Lexington, sometimes called the “Athens of the West,” boasts charming historic neighborhoods with beautiful architecture. A quick stroll through downtown Lexington or a visit to Mary Todd Lincoln House should give visitors an appreciation of the city’s heritage.
In addition to the Mary Todd Lincoln House, Lexington is home to Ashland —The Henry Clay Estate and the Lexington History Museum. Kentucky’s capital, Frankfurt, is a short drive from Lexington, making it a great place to explore the state’s power center.
Food and Dining
Lexington has a burgeoning food scene that punches above its weight, with options ranging from Southern cuisine to locally sourced farm-to-table dishes to international flavors.
Of course, no trip to Lexington is complete without trying the famous Hot Brown, a dish originating in nearby Louisville.
However, for an accessible bit of culinary joy, consider Lockbox in downtown Lexington or OBC Kitchen in the city’s Lansdowne neighborhood, which, fittingly enough, boasts an extensive bourbon collection.
Bourbon Country
Of course, Kentucky’s claim to fame is bourbon, and Lexington is perfectly situated for touring Kentucky’s Bourbon Country. Iconic distilleries such as Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace are all accessible from Lexington.
Tours and tastings are ideal for novices and experts alike, and every visit to one of the state’s distilleries yields new insights into bourbon production.
For a longer trip into Bourbon Country from Lexington, consider visiting Bardstown, located about an hour west of Lexington. Bardstown is home to several smaller distilleries, which can give visitors a more intimate view into the story of bourbon and how it’s made.