Things To Do
University of Kentucky Arboretum
Open from 7am-7pm daily, UK's arboretum is a lovely place to take a stroll up to 2 miles. Jess has spent many hours walking here with friends and going solo. The park is full of life anywhere from the plants and trees to animals and nature lovers. There is also a kid's garden within the arboretum that families can enjoy for a small fee! If you have a few hours, the arboretum is a lovely place to spend a little bit of time in the sun.
Red River Gorge
One of Kentucky's most beloved attractions is the Red River Gorge. In all of the hours she's spent here, Jess has barely scratched the surface of all the hikes and rock climbs that the Gorge has to offer! The park resides in Stanton, KY, only about 1 hour east of Lexington. A classic hike that all visitors must do is Natural Bridge. It is < 1 mile and offers amazing views of the park at the top. There is some incline to get up there, but hikers at all fitness levels are able to do it and it is well worth it! Check All Trails for the best hikes and climbs, but don't forget to get pizza at Miguel's on your way out!
Distillery District
The Distillery District was home to James E. Pepper Distillery back in 1879, but has since become home to a variety of newer shops, bars, and restaurants. It is a great place to grab a bite to eat (like a slice of Goodfella's pizza the size of your head finished with ice cream at the local Crank & Boom), enjoy some live music with a drink in hand (you know bourbon is made here, right?), or even throw some axes (you do you, booboo). The address is for the Water Tower, but it should get you to the right area!
Marikka's Restaurant & Bier Stube
Marikka's is home to Lexington's German food & beach volleyball scene. It is where Jess learned how to play volleyball (properly) and made many valuable friendships. You can play pick up volleyball (on one of the 6 sand courts, at no charge!), grab a drink, eat delicious food, watch the game, and shoot some darts. Since she's introduced it to David, it's become a special place to both of them. Kids are allowed in the restaurant, but note that since it is a bar, every adult is carded at the door! Entry is free. *Note: they are closed on Sundays & Mondays*
Kentucky Horse Park
Kentucky is known for a few things, but a big one is horses! You can easily spend a whole day at the Kentucky Horse Park, visiting the International Museum of the Horse, doing some horseback riding, catching a show or presentation, meeting a former racing champion, and perusing the gift shops. A Lexington classic.
Ashland - The Henry Clay Estate
"Located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, Ashland stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Henry Clay, one of the most influential statesmen in American history. Through the dedicated efforts of The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, this historic estate has been meticulously preserved for nearly a century. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, Ashland serves as a living museum, offering tours and community events that provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Henry Clay’s life and times." Check it out for tours & events!
Mary Todd Lincoln House
THE Mary Todd Lincoln House is located in the heart of downtown Lexington! Book a tour Mondays through Saturdays and walk through First Lady Lincoln's childhood home.
University of Kentucky
If you didn't know already, Lexington is a college town! The University of Kentucky is Jess' alma mater (Go Cats!). It's turned into a more beautiful campus than when she was a student, but there may be a college game going on worth attending! We're a basketball (and volleyball!) school, but even football season can be fun.
Buffalo Trace Distillery
If you're a bourbon fan, take a short drive outside of Lexington into Kentucky's capital of Frankfort to visit the beloved Buffalo Trace Distillery for a tour & tasting!
Woodford Reserve Distillery
Also neighboring Lexington is the quaint town of Versailles, KY (ver-sales) which is home to the Woodford Reserve Distillery. Another great option for tours & tastings!
The Kentucky Castle
You read that right - a CASTLE! In Kentucky! What began as a charming effort for a husband to build the castle of his wife's dreams in 1969 turned into a luxury hotel, restaurant, and event space on 110 beautiful acres after their separation (oopsie). Their loss has turned into the community's gain! Book a tour or reserve a table at the restaurant (also known for exclusively farm to table dishes).
North Lime Coffee & Donuts - Limestone
One thing Jess has always loved about Lexington is its wealth of local donut shops. North Lime is a Lexington treasure offering delicious homemade donuts and locally brewed coffee. Other favorites include Spalding's Bakery & Doughdaddy's. Doughdaddy's can actually be found in the BP gas station right off of the Bluegrass Parkway when heading into Lexington!
Coffee Times Coffee House
Another local Lexington favorite is Coffee Times. Jess has spent many dates here meeting up with friends, her sisters, and grabbing a fun flavor of coffee! Other local favorites are Brevede, Luna's Coffee, Leestown Coffee, Lussi Brown's, Nate's, Old School Coffee, & McLeod's (who in particular is a non profit aiming to employ and help those with disabilities!). You really can't go wrong with any of those options!
Honeywood Restaurant
Honeywood is one of several restaurants owned by local Chef Ouita Michel. She focuses on using locally sourced ingredients at her restaurants (we love a local supporting queen). Jess hasn't been to all of them, but of those she has, the food has always been delicious. She definitely recommends grabbing a bite to eat at a Ouita Michel restaurant while you're in town!