Lexington, KY
Rich in history, this city proudly preserves its past, notably in the historic Victorian-era homes of Gratz Park and the Mary Todd Lincoln House. As the heart of bourbon country, Lexington offers a gateway to the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail, showcasing distilleries crafting the finest bourbon in the world. The city also hosts the University of Kentucky, infusing a youthful spirit with collegiate sports and vibrant entertainment.
Lexington's embrace of nature is evident with the awe-inspiring Red River Gorge and the serene Kentucky River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its hospitable locals, diverse attractions, and a blend of tradition and modernity, Lexington beckons visitors to revel in its unique Southern charm.
What to do in Lexington, KY
Keeneland Racecourse
Keeneland Racecourse is a historic thoroughbred horse racing facility known for its picturesque grounds and exciting races. Visitors can experience the thrill of live horse racing during the spring and fall meets, immersing themselves in the rich tradition of equestrian sports. The stunning architecture of the facility, coupled with the beautiful surrounding landscapes, makes Keeneland a must-visit destination for both racing enthusiasts and casual tourists. Additionally, the Keeneland Library and the Keeneland Gift Shop offer opportunities to delve into the history of the sport and purchase unique souvenirs.
Bourbon Distillery Tours
Lexington is situated at the heart of Kentucky’s famous Bourbon Trail, offering visitors the chance to explore renowned distilleries such as Woodford Reserve and Buffalo Trace. Guided tours provide an in-depth look at the bourbon-making process, from the aging barrels to the bottling line, while also educating guests about the history and craftsmanship behind Kentucky’s signature spirit. Tastings at the distilleries offer an opportunity to savor the distinct flavors and aromas of various bourbon brands, culminating in a truly immersive and flavorful experience.
Horse Farm Tours
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington offers horse enthusiasts the opportunity to tour iconic horse farms like Claiborne Farm and WinStar Farm. Visitors can witness the majesty of champion racehorses and learn about the breeding and training processes that contribute to producing world-class equine athletes. The scenic beauty of the rolling bluegrass pastures serves as a stunning backdrop for these tours, giving guests a glimpse into the unparalleled elegance and athleticism of Kentucky’s beloved thoroughbreds.
Exploring Downtown Lexington
Downtown Lexington is a vibrant hub of culture, entertainment, and history, boasting an array of charming shops, critically acclaimed restaurants, and historical landmarks. Visitors can wander through the bustling streets, admiring the architecture, and exploring the many boutiques and art galleries. With its lively atmosphere and diverse culinary scene, downtown Lexington offers an unforgettable urban experience, whether it’s enjoying a leisurely stroll through the historic district or savoring a delectable meal at a local eatery.
The Kentucky Horse Park
The Kentucky Horse Park provides a captivating journey through the equestrian world, showcasing the history and heritage of horses in Kentucky. This working horse farm features museums, live equine presentations, and engaging exhibits that offer an immersive look into the equestrian culture of the state. Guests can also enjoy scenic trail rides, horse-drawn trolley tours, and interactions with various horse breeds, making it an ideal destination for families, horse lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Kentucky’s equestrian legacy.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
Start your day at the Kentucky Horse Park, a 1,224-acre equestrian facility. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of horse racing and see the beautiful horses.
Afternoon
Head to the Keeneland Race Course, a historic Thoroughbred horse racing track. Take a tour of the grounds and learn about the legacy of horse racing in the region.
Evening
Explore the Distillery District, home to craft breweries, distilleries, and artisan workshops. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the area, visit local galleries, and perhaps even catch a live music performance.
Day 2
Morning
Visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House, the childhood home of Abraham Lincoln’s wife. Take a guided tour to learn about the life of Mary Todd and the historical significance of the house.
Afternoon
Experience the beauty of nature at the Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky. Stroll through the various gardens, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and learn about the diverse plant life in the area.
Evening
Spend your evening exploring the vibrant downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Take a leisurely walk along Main Street and discover the local culture and charm of the city.
Horse Racing
Lexington is known as the Horse Capital of the World, hosting prestigious horse races and offering opportunities to visit horse farms.
Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky
Experience why Kentucky's Bluegrass Horse Country is world famous! This 3+ hour family-owned thoroughbred heritage horse farm tour offers a fun and informative tour that will provide you with a unique experience and take you through the heart and soul of Kentucky’s beautiful Bluegrass Horse Country. This is an interactive tour were you will get to touch and pet some horses.
You will visit a private farm that is exclusive to us and has had winners of both the Preakness and Belmont Stakes and will have two in the Derby this year!
During the off season from November 12th through March 10th a minimum of 4 guests are required to do a tour.
Book Today on Viator From $42.00
Unique Horse Farm Tours with Insider Access to Private Farms
Looking for unique access to the best of Kentucky's thoroughbred horse culture? Go behind-the-scenes with this one-of-a-kind intimate tour experience. Our professional guides are long time insiders that will share a wealth of knowledge and up-close experiences with you. Learn about horse racing and breeding as you visit three horse farms and enjoy an exclusive look at how the horses are bred, raised, and prepared for their racing debuts. Under supervision of your guide, have chance to meet the horses and feed them a treat. Don't miss out on this colorful and entertaining personal tour with beautiful views and a rich history.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $49.00
Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour
The Thoroughbred Center's Behind the Scenes Tour offers an exclusive look at the training and stabling of thoroughbred race horses. Encompassing over 230 acres of prime Kentucky Bluegrass, this unique horse farm has the ability to accommodate over 1,100 horses. During morning training hours you will get to see horses up close while they workout on the track as well as walk through a barn where horses are stabled. Come see for yourself why trainers say The Thoroughbred Center is one of the best places in the world to train a horse. Minimum numbers are required to run this tour.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $16.35
Arts and Culture
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Lexington by exploring art galleries, theaters, and live music venues.
Lexington's Art Walk Tour
This is Lexington's ONLY Art Tour where you can enjoy the lively and vibrant local culture by connecting with the local eclectic arts scene. Fun and well-informed guides will lead you on a tour through the downtown district, introducing you to some of our many murals, public artworks and sculptures along the way while pointing out historic buildings and sharing entertaining stories that will keep you engaged. You will check out several galleries and exhibitions with a brief overview of work on display before ending this leisurely walk at Artists’ Attic – a 22 artists’ studio cooperative – where drinks and refreshments will be waiting. Here you will be able to watch artists at work and chat with them about their creative process.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $40.00
2-Hour Guided Walking Art and Appetizers Tour in Lexington
This is a fun tour especially designed for art and foodie lovers. You will start with a visit to the unique Artists' Attic space, studio home to over 20 artists, then continue through downtown Lexington where you'll see and learn about the many arts features and landmarks as well as hear entertaining stories from your lively guide.
The tour will then end in the lounge of 21c Museum Hotel with appetizers and the opportunity to buy a drink from the bar. A fun time to socialize and make new friends while surrounded by the hotel's amazing contemporary art collection and enjoying fabulous finger food.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Food Tours
Indulge in local cuisine through food tours that showcase the diverse culinary scene of Lexington and surrounding areas.
Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails and Bites Tour
Let us take you for a sipping stroll to three cozy downtown lounges! Enjoy filling appetizers and craft cocktails, layered with southern hospitality, as your friendly guide shares stories of Kentucky's drinking past.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $95.00
Historic Sites
Discover the rich history of Lexington by visiting historic sites, museums, and landmarks that offer insights into the city's past.
Mary Todd Lincoln House Self Guided Tour Ticket
Discover one of America’s most fascinating first ladies! The Mary Todd Lincoln House was the family home of the wife of 16th president Abraham Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln was sophisticated, educated, and versed in politics. On the surface, her success in the White House seemed assured. Yet, few women in American history have endured as much controversy and tragedy. Tour her childhood home to explore the full story.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $16.35
Mary Todd Lincoln House Guided Tour Ticket
Discover one of America’s most fascinating first ladies! The Mary Todd Lincoln House was the family home of the wife of 16th president Abraham Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln was sophisticated, educated, and versed in politics. On the surface, her success in the White House seemed assured. Yet, few women in American history have endured as much controversy and tragedy. Tour her childhood home to explore the full story.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $16.35
Bourbon Distilleries
Explore the Bourbon Trail and visit renowned bourbon distilleries in and around Lexington for tastings and tours.
Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington
Join us in the lively Distillery District for a journey in time you won't forget! Town Branch Creek won't be the only thing flowing as we sip on limestone filtered bourbons, sample long-standing Kentucky cuisine, and explore the stories behind this revitalized piece of Lexington's history. You'll sample cider, farm-to-table fare, German inspired bites, sophisticated cocktails, Kentucky staples like burgoo, award-winning ice cream, and the bourbon that built this 25 acre property, all while hearing well-researched history woven into a day filled with fun and new friends!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.00
Festivals and Events
Participate in local festivals and events that celebrate art, music, food, and culture, offering a unique experience for visitors.
Epic Lexington Scavenger Hunt: Giddyup Lexington’s Main Street!
Let’s Roam is the #1 app-led scavenger hunt company. Walk to all the best landmarks and hidden gems, answering trivia questions and solving challenges. Work with your team or compete against them, as you learn new facts and create memorable experiences. Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts are great as an everyday activity, or for bachelorette parties, birthday parties, corporate team building events and more! Each player chooses an interactive role, with challenges varying by person.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $12.31
Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Lexington by Operation City Quest
The Lexington scavenger hunt players will use an app to find objects around the city to collect points, and complete fun challenges for points. Players will be able to see their score live on the app rankings. All our Scavenger hunts have a live remote host to help along the way. Come and explore with us in Lexington.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $10.00
Loco in Lexington, KY Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment!
Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Book Today on Viator From $27.00
Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Lexington by Crazy Dash
Crazy Dash of Lexington is a great way to see the city! Use an app on your phone to submit photos of items you find around the city. Find them in any order you choose and submit a photo for points. You'll also complete challenges for points. See your score on the rankings compared to others who have played across the country when you are finished. All games have a remote host that will chat with you during the game. Crazy Dash is our most easy-going scavenger hunt. Come have some fun in Lexington today!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $10.00
Outdoor Activities
Enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the scenic natural landscapes surrounding Lexington.
Full-Day Lexington Farm Tour with Clay Pigeon Shooting
Are you a sportsman looking for a full day of fun? Our Clay Pigeon tour starts with trapshooting clay pigeons at the Blue Grass Sportsmen's League before stopping for lunch and ends with visiting 3 horse farm attractions. Guaranteed to be a great day of fun for men and ladies alike. A minimum of 4 guests is required, otherwise, the tour will be cancelled.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $199.00
Daniel Boone's Challenge: an Adventure in the Trees
Daniel Boone Challenge is an Aerial Adventure in the trees, a great confidence builder for young and old, families and groups are welcome. The course is in a spectacular setting at Boone Creek Outdoors and is a chance to challenge your senses and experience the outdoors!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $49.00