Whether you’re in the mood for pizza by the slice or a microbrew,Lexington KY has plenty of funky,unique hangouts to choose from. You won’t want miss the Distillery District.
Lexington was named a top 10 smart city,so it’s no surprise that its residents are well educated. There are many educational institutions in Lexington,including the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University.
Festival of the Bluegrass
The Festival of the Bluegrass,a music event celebrating traditional bluegrass,is held every year. The Cornett family from Georgetown,Kentucky organized the event at first. The first event was held on Walnut Hall Farm in 1974,which is part of the Kentucky Horse Park. It was later moved to Masterson Station Park,a city park on the north side of Lexington.
In 2023,a new festival called Spirit of the Bluegrass will take the place of the Festival of the Bluegrass. The new festival will share many of its predecessor’s characteristics,but won’t feature the Sunday morning gospel concerts that were part the old Festival of the Bluegrass.
Bluegrass festivals require a lot of time and effort from unpaid volunteers and community involvement. Supporting these events is a great way to encourage them and keep them going.
The Kentucky Horse Park
The Kentucky Horse Park is a must-see for all equestrian enthusiasts. Located in Lexington,the Horse Park showcases all breeds of horses through daily equine presentations,three outstanding museums,horse-drawn tours and carriage rides,and special exhibitions. The park also hosts the most comprehensive schedule of equestrian competitions in North America. The Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event is the only event of its kind in the world that has four stars. It includes steeplechase,cross-country competitions,polo and a polo match.
Lexington is known for its genuine hospitality and authentic experience. While many people enjoy the conveniences of the modern urban area,Lexingtonians value the beauty and history of the surrounding rolling pastures. The city has numerous picturesque parks that offer opportunities for outdoor activities,including biking,running,and hiking. Families can also enjoy a picnic in one of the numerous public gardens,such as the urban Woodland Park or Jacobson Park. In addition,the city has a variety of shopping centers and boutiques.
The Distillery District
Lexington is the best place to experience and taste the rich history of Bourbon. Take a tour of one of the legendary distilleries or grab a seat at a world-class bourbon bar. Also,you can sample local craft breweries as well as a variety cocktail bars.
The city’s tight-knit business community has made a name for itself as an up-and-coming neighborhood where the future is rooted in the past. New restaurants and artisan-driven businesses are popping up all over town. The city’s chefs have a knack for incorporating bourbon into everything from appetizers to entrees. And you’ll find plenty of traditional bluegrass music at restaurants,clubs and the annual Railbird Festival.
Manchester Street was lined with rickhouses,and other buildings,that housed a number bourbon distillers. The area was revitalized in 2008 by local entrepreneurs who created a lively downtown destination full of entertainment. Today,the neighborhood is home to two working bourbon distilleries and other historic sites.
Southern Lights
Named one of Kentucky’s Top 10 Winter/Holiday Festivals and Events by Kentucky Travel and Tourism,Southern Lights is a favorite holiday tradition throughout the Bluegrass. Guests of all ages enjoy the three-mile driving tour of dazzling lights,which feature a variety of equine-themed and pop culture displays.
The Holiday Festival is accessible by foot after parking your vehicle. The non-driving section of Southern Lights includes the Kentucky Horse Park Gift Shop and craft vendors. There is also seasonal music entertainment,an exotic petting Zoo,and pony and camel ride. Other food vendors and the Bit & Bridle Restaurant will be on hand to serve guests.
Tickets are priced at $15 for cars (up to seven passengers). RVs,Limousines and Minibuses cost $35 each. School buses are priced at $125. Children 2 and younger are admitted free. The event is open from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31,except for the evenings of Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
