Natalie's favorite ice creamery. She makes Daniel take her here for a treat after a long hike. Try the Bourbon Ball Sundae!
West Sixth is a local brewery and connects to Smithtown Seafood. I know this sounds like an odd combo in the middle of KY, but you have GOT to try the Buffalo Catfish Bites--one of Natalie's faves.
It's probably going to be a bit chilly in January, but if you're looking for a nice, brisk walk, check out the historic Gratz Park area downtown and marvel at how old all the houses are.
What better place to warm up than a chocolate and coffee bar? Grab a signature hot chocolate or a cup of joe at this local favorite.
Since you know Natalie and Daniel, there's a high probability that you're also into bookstores. Joseph Beth's is gigantic and FULL OF BOOKS. It's also close to Target if you forgot anything.
A local brewery and distillery rolled into one! You can take a tour and taste both their Kentucky Ales and the Town Branch bourbon.
One of Daniel's favorite distillery tours (a close tie with Buffalo Trace). It's about a 30 minute drive from Lexington's city center, but well worth it! Keep an eye out for Keeneland and the Castle on your way there.
This one is all the way up in Frankfort (about a 40 minute drive), but it is Natalie's favorite (and she doesn't even like bourbon). A very historic tour, Buffalo Trace Distillery is just twenty minutes passed Woodford Reserve on HW 60/Versailles Rd...if you're up for two in one day ;)
Midway is a cute little town with an artsy shop-filled main street. It's about a twenty minute drive from Lexington through gorgeous horse country. Take Old Frankfort Pike out of Lexington to get the prettiest views and end with a drink at one of the town's taverns.
The Red River Gorge is world famous for its spectacular rock climbing, but the hiking is pretty great as well. With lots of rock arches and overhangs, it's sort of like Moab with trees. January is the off season, so you'll get views to yourself! Plan for at least 1.5 hours to get there. Gray's Arch or the Natural Bridge State park are good short hike options.