Things To Do
Visit Horse Country
Tour an iconic Kentucky Horse Farm. June is a great time of year to visit horse country because there are plenty of young foals frolicking about. If you are a racing fan, there are also many spots to meet a famous racehorse at stud. We recommend Claiborne Farm, where Alex has family ties.
Take a Hike!
Literally not figuratively!!! There are so many beautiful sites to see. Check out one of the many great hiking trails at the famed Natural Bridge, the Red River Gorge, Lower Howard's Creek Nature Preserve, or Pilot's Knob. A sentimental favorite is the Clay Hancock trail at the Flora Cliff Nature Sanctuary.
Taste Bourbon!
Kentucky is the home of bourbon. We will be getting married in Bourbon County, so why not take a swig? There are many distilleries worth touring, but we recommend Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Town Branch. If you want to simply drink bourbon, see "Watering Holes."
Sip a local Brew
Lexington has many local breweries. You can tour Town Branch and try Kentucky's very own Ale or taste the many local brews of West Sixth, Blue Stallion, Mirror Twin and Ethereal to name a few. There is also Rooster Brew in Paris!
Food Digs
Lexington is becoming a foodie town and our favorite spots are Dudley's on Short, Carson's Food & Drink, Lockbox at 21C, Coles 735 Main, Middlefork, Corto Y Lima and Tony's of Lexington. For a low key experience we suggest Bear and The Butcher, County Club, Willie's, or Kentucky Native Cafe.
Watering Holes
Our suggested watering holes are Belle's Cocktail House, 21C Lockbox bar, Harvey's, Bar Ona and our mutual favorite -McCarthy's Irish Bar. All are centrally located and have their own personality and ambiance.
Kentucky Native Café
One of our absolute favorite spots! Wander behind Michler's Florist and you will unexpectedly find yourself under a canopy of green to enjoy daily specials and relax in a beer garden.
Kentucky Horse Park
An Equine Theme Park where you can go on trail rides, meet retired Hall of Fame thoroughbreds or watch a Parade of Breeds Show, among other things.
Ashland - The Henry Clay Estate
One stop shop for anyone wanting to get a little exercise, a little snack and a little culture. You can stroll around the grounds which boast old trees, a rose garden, and historical buildings. The Ginko Tree cafe has coffee and light fare. For those wanting more, tours inside Henry Clay's home run every hour on the hour.
Shakertown Village of Pleasant Hill
Shakertown was one of the first places that we spent time together long before we were a couple. The village has been preserved to showcase the Kentucky Shakers' way of life back in the 19th century. It is a 40 minute drive out of Lexington. There is gift shop, restaurant and there are daily activities.
Feeling Adventurous?
Take a zipline through a canopy of trees with Boone Creek Outdoors. It's only a 25 minute drive outside of Lexington and a lot of fun.
Feeling Lazy?
Have someone else plan your outing with a tour company! Tour a horse farm or bourbon distilleries with Shaun Washington at Unique Horse Farm Tours. Be sure to mention the Hancock/Knelman wedding. You can also check out Unbridled Tours with Martha Martin.