Lexington

Kentucky

United States

North America

Destinations

As the "Horse Capital of the World," Lexington and horses go hand-in-hand, but there's far more to this picturesque Kentucky town than derbies and race courses. With more rustic charm than it knows what to do with, there are more things to do in Lexington, KY than first meets the eye.

As the "Horse Capital of the World," Lexington and horses go hand-in-hand, but there's far more to this picturesque Kentucky town than derbies and race courses. Occasionally overlooked for Louisville, Lexington is a beautiful spot for all kinds of getaway from romantic to family. With more rustic charm than it knows what to do with, stunning revival plantations, and lush meadows, there are more things to do in Lexington, KY than first meets the eye.
<h2>1. Dine On a Classic Southern Brisket</h2>
If you should know anything about Southerners, it's that every one of them stakes its claim as having the best barbecue this side of the Mississippi. As far as the Blue Door Smokehouse in Lexington is anything to go by, however, we'd say those other states have one heck of a mountain to climb. The Blue Door isn't just Lexington legend; it's Kentucky legend. It's a tiny, 26-seater hole-in-the-wall joint with barbecue so good there's rarely a spare seat in the house. If you love you some BBQ, you'll love you some Blue Door brisket.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030766" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_647906842.jpg" alt="Smoke meats bbq southern style" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Visit Some of Kentucky’s Star Retired Racehorses</h2>
Have you ever asked yourself where racehorses go after they're done racing? Lexington has the answer. Old Friends started as a retirement facility for old thoroughbreds who have since passed their racing days. With more than 200 horses onsite, a Hall of Fame Museum to out-marvel the Rock and Roll one, and the chance to meet the stars of Kentucky's biggest races all the while knowing they're being cared for, there's no way you should miss out on such a grand opportunity.

[caption id="attachment_1030768" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1030768" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-141245295-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Horses in the fields on a farm in Lexington, Kentucky" width="1024" height="683" /> alexeys / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Take a Horsedrawn Tour After Dusk</h2>
If we're honest with ourselves, we're all a little bit that "Horse Girl" on the inside. Lexington also has the Kentucky Horse Park which is another must-see attraction for horse lovers. There's literally no other park like it on the planet. If that's not tempting enough for you, what if we also told you that the park consists of more than 1,200 Bluegrass-blanketed acres? How about if we added that you can take a horse-drawn tour around the grounds before taking in more than 50-million years worth of horse history at the onsite museum? Just try and say “neigh” to that.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1030769" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_665248033-1-1024x687.jpg" alt="Aerial view of the beautiful horses" width="1024" height="687" />


<h2>4. Experience the Best Bluegrass Festival in the South</h2>
If you're headed to Kentucky in the summer, it's clear you're headed there for its very Southern reasons. Festival of the Bluegrass is the oldest music festival in the region. Taking place over the first weekend in June in Kentucky Horse Park, visitors will have the chance to see some of the best Bluegrass Bands in the state. As of today, the festival has been running for 45 years and the increasing crowds every year says it'll be running for another 45 to come.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030770" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_607009190.jpg" alt="Banjo Player" width="1000" height="757" />


<h2>5. Check Out Lexington’s Most Historic Buildings</h2>
The streets of Lexington are filled with historical buildings; some you might not even realize. One of the most well-known is the Mary Todd Lincoln House. It was here that the former FLOTUS, Mary Todd, spent her childhood years. The 14-room home has now been turned into a museum dedicated to the legacy of both the Todds and the Lincolns. Other incredible buildings include Ashland, the 19th Century plantation that was home to Kentucky statesman Henry Clay, and the Waveland State Historic Site.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1030771" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_334028501-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Mary Todd Lincoln House in Lexington" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>6. Watch the Civil War Come to Life</h2>
Lexington's place in the Civil War is more than that of battles and bloodshed. Henry Clay, the same one who owned Ashland, was known as "the Great Compromiser" and did everything he could to keep the states from warring. These days, history buffs, or even those who are anxious to learn more about the country's history can catch one of the reenactments that take place around Lexington. One of the largest and most infamous is Perryville, which takes place every October. Others you can check out are Lawrenceburg or Battlefield Park. You never know what you'll learn in ole Kentucky.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030772" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_150935933.jpg" alt="A Civil War era cannon on a ridge at Perryville, Kentucky" width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>7. Be At One With Nature</h2>
Kentucky has some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. Amongst them, it also has some of the most peaceful, calm, and invigorating nature reserves. Whether you're a fan of hiking or simply sitting back, listening to rushing water and bird song, Lexington's surrounding reserves have something for everyone. At Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, you can even visit its education center or catch one of the stargazing events if you're anxious to see the Milky Way for yourself. Another stunning outing is the Floracliff Nature Sanctuary. Located in the Palisades, you'll find massive waterfalls, ancient trees, and day and nighttime activities such as moth watching and butterfly identifying.

[caption id="attachment_1029756" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/140399815-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/140399815-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/140399815-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/140399815-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/140399815.jpg 1200w" alt="Raven run creek" width="1024" height="683" /> lesmcglasson / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Get in Touch With Your Inner Child</h2>
Kentucky's premier indoor theme park Malibu Jack's is a sight to behold. With go-karting, mini golf, laser tag, and a coaster, you won't have the time to wonder what to do next. Malibu Jack's Lexington location is one of the most vibrantly fun and exciting places to go during the summer for the entire family. Not only is there no entrance fee and, therefore, you only pay or what you want to do, but there are also deals every Wednesday.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030773" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_71995207.jpg" alt="Race between safety barriers in indoor carting hall" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Take a Bourbon Distillery Tour</h2>
Bluegrass, bourbon, distilleries, and then some. Kentucky has a rich history of making its own spirits, and it's a history that's still alive and well to this day. Granted, doing one of the dozens of distillery tours in Lexington is more of an adults-only thing, you can always bring the kids down when they're older. Lexington's Distillery District used to be the location of the historic James E. Pepper Distillery and was brought back to life after more than half-a-century of abandonment. While you're living your best bourbon life, be sure to also check out Barrel House and Goodfellas. And if the kids <i>are </i>with you, get them a delicious craft ice cream.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030765" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_468130025.jpg" alt="Visitor center of Alltech Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company in Lexington, KY" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Spend the Night in a Castle</h2>
Did you know you could spend the night in a castle in Kentucky? You can, and now you know you can, it should move up your to-do list. The Kentucky Castle, or Martin Castle to locals, is a luxury B&amp;B set in a medieval-style castle that was originally built toward the end of the 1960s. It stayed unoccupied for over 30 years before being bought and renovated into its current form. Inside of the Kentucky Castle's walls is ten luxury rooms and the chance to have the most romantic wedding night ever.

[caption id="attachment_1029759" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/177048155-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/177048155-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/177048155-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/177048155-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/177048155.jpg 1200w" alt="Kentucky Castle" width="1024" height="683" /> benkrut / Getty Images[/caption]

Fun Things to do in Lexington, KY

If you're planning a vacation in the glorious South, there are lots of things to do in Kentucky that makes Kentucky has everything from stunningly expansive state parks to intriguing shadows of the Civil War. It’s a true one-of-a-kind state that welcomes its visitor's open arms.

If you're planning a vacation in the glorious South, there are lots of things to do in Kentucky that makes it a great spot to choose. Although the Bluegrass State lives up to its reputation by providing ample opportunities to drink Bourbon and see horses, there's much more going on than that. Kentucky has everything from stunningly expansive state parks to intriguing shadows of the Civil War. It’s a true one-of-a-kind state that welcomes its visitors with the same charm and open arms as it does its locals. More than that, plenty of its best attractions require little-to-no cash.
<h2>1. Go on the Bourbon Trail</h2>
Bourbon and Kentucky go hand-in-hand the same way that California goes with stardom and New York, its swanky cocktails. It’s a place where the finest of bourbons are ready and waiting for the most staunch of connoisseurs. Not only that, but the nation’s drink has its own trail. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail consists of 10 different distilleries including Jim Beam and Wild Turkey. Those who take the trail will get learn about the bourbon-making process or even do tastings to find their ideal drink. The bourbon industry is once again booming and Kentucky is its beating heart.

[caption id="attachment_1028125" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1028125" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/timon-studler-57989-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="kentucky burbon poster" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Timon Studler on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. Meet Freddy at the Kentucky State Fair</h2>
People often say that the Kentucky State Fair is the best in the country, and they aren't wrong. The fair, which takes place annually towards the middle of August, is a nostalgic experience for all members of the family. There are rides, there are amusements and food stands serving delicious wares. There's also a sense of community that even outsiders have the chance to feel. On top of all of this, there's also somebody you have to meet. Possibly Kentucky's most famous resident and the best greeter in the country, Freddy Farm Bureau.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028126" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/shutterstock_58649263.jpg" alt="Kentucky State Fair" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Admire the View from Red River Gorge</h2>
Towering cliffs, magical arches, natural bridges, and exceptional landscapes are all staples of the Red River Gorge. What might be the South's best-kept secret exists just a 40-minute walk from the small community of Slade in Powell County. The Red River Gorge has cabins in which you can stay, dozens of trails that you can hike, and the natural, sandstone rock bridge that peers out from the ceiling of the trees. It might be time you booked your next camping trip right here, under the stars.

[caption id="attachment_1028112" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/579775128-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/579775128-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/579775128-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/579775128-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/579775128.jpg 1200w" alt="Sky bridge red river gorge " width="1024" height="684" /> jctabb / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Venture into Fort Knox for Some History</h2>
You might've heard one of your elder relatives say, "it's like Fort Knox" while struggling to get into something. That saying comes from the actual Fort Knox which, to this day, is near impossible to get into. However, if you have a photo ID, you might be able to get into the Leadership Museum. All of that aside, the city that shares its name with this historical compound has plenty of things to do, too. During the summer, kids and adults alike can enjoy the goings on at Fort Knox Water Park. Alternatively, you can take the Bridges to the Past tour which takes you on a journey through a valley that's been largely unchanged since the 19th Century.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028127" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/shutterstock_479387101.jpg" alt="Rustic Vault Door of Bank Being Opened" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Try a Hot Brown at Louisville’s Brown Hotel</h2>
Have you ever had a Hot Brown? Whether you have or not, you're still in for a treat. The Hot Brown is a sandwich that was created at the Brown Hotel in downtown Louisville. As a matter-of-fact, the Hot Brown might just be Louisville's signature dish. When it was originally created, it was to satiate the thousands of guests that went to the hotel every evening to dance. The chef wanted something more than just bacon and eggs or grits, and that ended up being an open-faced sandwich with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. Sounds good, right? Just wait until you taste it.

[caption id="attachment_1018960" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/895625922-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/895625922-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/895625922-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/895625922-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/895625922.jpg 1200w" alt="Louisville skyline Kentucky USA" width="1024" height="684" /> Sean Pavone / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Have the Culinary Experience of a Lifetime at the Fancy Farm Picnic</h2>
Kentucky's Fancy Farm Picnic is getting close to its 140th year of existence. Located in a small town of the same name that's usually home to just 500 people, the Fancy Farm Picnic attracts visitors from all walks of life. What you can expect from the picnic is charm, bingo, and all of the BBQ you can imagine eating. Although the picnic attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year, there's room and sausages for everybody to enjoy.

[caption id="attachment_1028133" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1028133" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/GettyImages-157374829-1-1024x643.jpg" alt="Green fields kentucky" width="1024" height="643" /> epicurean / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Watch the Sun Come Up from the Columbus Belmont State Park</h2>
Whenever you visit a new place, you should always experience at least one sunset and one sunrise. One of the most beautiful spots in Kentucky to experience both is from the Columbus-Belmont State Park. Sitting on the shores of the Mississippi River, what was once the site of a Confederate fort is now a vast, open slab of greenery. Columbus Belmont State Park is also an incredible place to camp, making it a prime location to experience an entire Kentucky day simply watching the sun pass by.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1028137" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/shutterstock_1127143280-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="The sun sets over the Green River " width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>8. Stay in a Wigwam in Cave City</h2>
In Kentucky, you can camp, stay in an RV, a cabin, or a hotel, but did you know you can also stay in a wigwam? If you want to, that is. Built in 1937, the Wigwam Village Inn is a group of concrete teepees that act as an outlandish motel. The Inn is just miles from Dinosaur World and Mammoth Cave National Park which makes for an interesting vacation for you and the kids.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1028139" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/shutterstock_1317404537-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Wigwam Village Inn in Cave City, KY" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>9. Cruise Down the Country Music Highway</h2>
Ideal for those traveling by car but equally possible for those who rent one is 23 Country Music Highway. Cruising down this highway will take you past numerous Kentucky attractions from the Ashland home of the Judds to Loretta Lynn's own Van Lear. If you're a country music lover visiting Kentucky, you should really make the time to cover this drive. After all, it's just a three-hour drive. Tops.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028140" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/shutterstock_447325123.jpg" alt="Scenic nighttime image of an old farm barn and a country road in moonlight" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Explore the Quaint Shaker Village</h2>
Sprawled out over 3,000 acres in Pleasant Hill is the once-home of the Kentucky Shakers. Now a landmark destination, the site offers its visitors the opportunity to learn about the Shaker way of life while having an adventure, to boot. As well as exploring the huge grounds, you can also stay at The Inn there, eat traditional Kentucky dishes, and even work on the farm.

[caption id="attachment_1028118" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/468000006-1024x666.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/468000006-1024x666.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/468000006-300x195.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/468000006-768x500.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/05/468000006.jpg 1200w" alt="Shaker village Kentucky" width="1024" height="666" /> apCincy / Getty Images[/caption]

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Fun Things to do in Lexington, KY

Fun and Exciting Things to do in Kentucky