Nicknamed the “Horse Capital of the World”, Lexington is located in the heart of Bluegrass country. It features a laid-back college town atmosphere and historic neighbourhoods, with horse farms and bourbon distilleries dotting its surrounds.
Things to do in Lexington
Meet Lexington’s most famous residents at the Kentucky Horse Farm, where nearly 50 different breeds graze on 485 hectares of lush pastures. Visit the on-site museum to learn about Kentucky’s horse history and peruse the horse-themed artwork, then witness horses in action during demonstration shows.
Discover the legacy of some of Lexington’s most influential families on a tour of the city’s historic mansions. Wander the period rooms of the Mary Todd Lincoln House, where she lived prior to becoming Mrs. Abraham Lincoln, and admire the Kentucky Federal-style architecture of Hunt-Morgan House.
Want to learn about the Shaker communities of Kentucky? Visit the largest restored Shaker village in the world at Pleasant Hill, which includes 34 original buildings. Participate in hands-on classes, watch the traditional music and dance performances or explore the surrounding trails on foot or by horseback.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Kentucky’s famous Bourbon is produced at one of the historic distilleries near Lexington. Witness the old-fashioned copper pot stills and hand-bottling at Woodford Reserve Distillery and experience the modern production techniques in the fermentation room of Wild Turkey.
Getting around Lexington
Blue Grass Airport is 20 minutes’ drive west of Lexington and there are regular buses making the 90-minute journey from Louisville. The downtown area is compact enough to explore on foot, but hiring a car is the best way to access the surrounding areas.