The city of Lexington, home to the College of Kentucky as well as an important financial and also social facility, depends on the heart of Bluegrass Country. The area is famous for its steed breeding, and also Lexington claims the title of “horse funding of the globe.” The steed paddocks enclosed by white fencings prevail views.
Besides the many equestrian-related things to do, Lexington is filled with many historic, natural, and also cultural destinations to explore. The Mary Todd Lincoln House supplies viewpoint on this prominent First Lady, and the Aviation Museum of Kentucky highlights the state’s high-flying history. For a fun mid-day or evening activity, catch the most recent indie or smash hit flick at the historical Kentucky Theater.
Prior to heading out to explore the city, see our checklist of the leading tourist attractions and things to do in Lexington.
1. See an Operating Equine Ranch at the Kentucky Horse Park
The world-famous Kentucky Equine Park lies 10 miles north of Lexington (I 75, leave 120). This is a functioning horse ranch that is open to the general public. It uses all type of details on horses. Here, in Bluegrass country, every little thing centers on horses and also the steed park is a good first step in learning more about the tradition of horses in Kentucky.
There is a Site visitor Facility that shows films on the park and also materials info on certain activities as well as events. The International Museum of the Steed, with the Calumet Trophy Collection, offers an extensive sight of the background and value of the horse, while terrific racehorses are honored in the Hall of Champions.
An interesting walk through the park deserves taking and also it consists of presentations of the crafts of blacksmiths, wagoners, harness makers, as well as a ceremony of thoroughbreds. Visitors can also take pleasure in equine trekking and also rides in horse-drawn carriages. The Kentucky Steed Facility is additionally a training facility for thoroughbreds.
For those traveling with RVs, you may wish to take into consideration remaining here. The park has 260 camping places offered with 20/30/50 amp solution.
2. See a Race at Keeneland
Founded in 1936, Keeneland is a professional racecourse that is open to the public and surrounded by elegantly enhanced premises. There are numerous factors outside of race day to check out Keeneland, consisting of simply visiting the center as well as absorbing the aura of pureblood auto racing culture. One of the highlights of a visit right here is viewing the thoroughbreds doing their early morning training runs.
As a major leader in the industry, Keeneland also holds a few of the largest pureblood auctions in the country at different times throughout the year. Other enjoyable points to check out include extensive historic archives of the pureblood sector, a retail shop with equestrian gifts, and the Keeneland Kids Club for those 12 as well as under.
3. Mary Todd Lincoln Home
Mary Todd Lincoln House was originally constructed in 1803 to 1806 as an inn, as well as in 1832, Mary Todd’s papa acquired this residence in Lexington for his family members. Mary Todd, that would certainly later on end up being Abraham Lincoln’s other half, saw her girlhood house often.
The Georgian-style block residence is equipped in duration and also shows family pictures, in addition to individual things of the Lincoln-Todd households. Site visitors can explore the 14-room house on an hour-long assisted tour, which likewise tells the exceptional story of the significant First Lady who grew up in the residence.
4. Aviation Museum of Kentucky
Situated at the Bluegrass Airport, the Air Travel Museum of Kentucky in Lexington is made to inform about the aeronautics market as well as inspire those curious about seeking an occupation in aeronautics. Numerous airplane get on screen, both inside the 25,000-square-foot center and also outside. Traveling displays are also on screen throughout the year, make certain to check out the website to see what is showing up.
The museum houses the Kentucky Aviation Hall of Popularity, identifying the achievements of Kentuckians. Special aeronautics camps take place at the museum throughout the summer for ages from 10 to 18 and older.
5. Fort Boonesborough State Park
One of the very best family-friendly locations to go to near Lexington is Fort Boonesborough State Park. This historic fort days from 1775. Splendidly recreated from the original plans, the ft today is a photo in time from the 18th century. Kids will enjoy the costumed docents as they tackle day-to-day live using historical products from the time period.
In addition to the ft, the state park additionally has a gigantic swimming pool with a sprinkle pad location for kids, a dreamland to cool off on those hot, moist Kentucky summer days. The park likewise has a miniature golf course, walking trails, a museum, as well as a 166-site camping site.
The green room around the ft and the trees nearby provide an excellent habitat for birds. Keep an eye out for wild turkeys roaming around, as well as pay attention thoroughly for the tell-tale knocking of pileated woodpeckers.
The park is about a 40-minute drive southeast of Lexington.
6. College of Kentucky
John Bowman started the Agricultural and Mechanical University in 1865, which was relabelled the College of Kentucky in 1916. Directed scenic tours of the Lexington university are supplied to the public and also depart from the site visitor facility. One of the tourist attractions is the College of Kentucky Art Gallery featuring altering exhibits from its irreversible collection.
Works include paints, sculptures, prints, drawings, photos, and decorative arts, as well as special car loan displays. Various other things to do on school consist of the Buell Armory; a campus bookstore; and also the Rupp Field, residence to Kentucky Wildcats basketball.
7. Raven Run Nature Shelter
Raven Run is a 734-acre nature haven and also exterior location with greater than 10 miles of treking tracks, a nature center, and a bird blind for nature monitoring as well as education and learning. The shelter is home to a big selection of birds and also hosts an assortment of events throughout the year, including weekly yoga sessions, unique programs for little explorers, and also organized running events. Within the sanctuary, the Joe Pulliam Memorial Garden is a Queen waystation, bring in and supporting butterflies as they make their means throughout North America.
8. Lexington Cemetery
The Lexington Burial ground was developed as a public burial ground in 1849. It highlights the social, political, armed forces, and also environmental history of the neighborhood. The cemetery is also an attractive environment-friendly space, including more than 170 acres of land.
A walking trip, with identified metal plates, permits site visitors to learn more about the many sorts of trees in the cemetery. Bird spectators typically go to, as the quiet environment offers towards rare discoveries. On the last Monday in Might, the burial ground organizes a Memorial Day observance with a symbolic service, and any individual seeking to pay their aspects is urged to attend.
9. Waveland State Historic Website
Also known as the Joseph Bryan Estate, the Waveland State Historic Website supplies a look of vineyard life in the 19th century. The main tourist destination is the Greek Rebirth estate that was integrated in 1847. Also on the grounds are an icehouse, smokehouse, as well as servants’ quarters, which have actually all been recovered.
You can take a led excursion and also stroll around the yards. Unique occasions at the Waveland include Tea Tuesdays, Derby Day Breakfasts, and classic baseball games with costumed personalities throughout the summertime.
10. Red Mile Harness Track
The Red Mile in Lexington is a one-mile oval track for trotters and also pacers. It’s the second-oldest harness racetrack on the planet, with live races from July through September. Daily workouts can be checked out from dawn up until late morning at this historic track. Many on-site dining alternatives, like the 1101 Grill, give budget friendly and also rewarding fare. When races aren’t happening at the Red Mile, the facility simulcasts races from around the globe on greater than 175 HD televisions.
