Things to do in Lexington
Bourbon, bluegrass, and basketball
Located in central Kentucky, Lexington welcomes visitors looking to bet on the thoroughbreds and sip some bourbon. The area’s rolling hills are outlined with the bright white fences of the horse farms, where many of the top equines are born and bred, along with the scenic Keeneland racetrack. Bourbon distilleries are found in and around the city, and historical attractions like Ashland and the Mary Todd Lincoln House offer a look at the state’s influential past.
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Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate
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When to visit
The best—and most pleasant—times to visit Lexington are in the spring (April to June) and fall (August to October), although springtime can bring more rain showers and colder temps as compared to fall. These two seasons are also when travelers flock to Lexington to visit Keeneland for the biannual races, which usually take place in April and October. The University of Kentucky is also located here and draws large crowds during home football and basketball games.
Getting around
In downtown Lexington, many of the attractions, restaurants, and stores are within walking distance of the major hotels. And while there are public buses, they’re not very popular, as most locals prefer to get around by car. Lexington’s road system features a wagon wheel layout, which makes navigation easier but traffic congestion sometimes worse. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.
Traveler tips
Head to the Kentucky Castle, located near Lexington’s Bluegrass Airport and Keeneland, in the town of Versailles (which is pronounced ver-SAYLES, not ver-SAI). It features 15 guest accommodations, a farm-to-table restaurant, and a spa, and it resembles a European castle that’s been plopped down in the middle of Kentucky. Be sure to book dinner reservations in advance, especially during busy times like the holiday season and events such as Keeneland.