Lexington, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is the second-largest city in Kentucky and home to the Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Racecourse, and Red Mile Racecourse. It has a total population of over 315,000 people, but don’t get it twisted -- Lexington has that small-town feel to it that you’ll absolutely fall in love with.

The locals are extremely friendly, it’s a great place to discover some of the world’s up-and-coming horses and is a Bourbon-lover’s dream. In fact, nearly 95% of the world’s Bourbon is aged in Kentucky and Lexington is home to nine of the best Bourbon distilleries.

If this is starting to sound like the kind of place you’d visit -- whether it be by yourself, with your partner, a group of friends, or even the family -- we have some helpful tips to make your vacation one remember. We’ll help you discover everything from which hotels to stay at, where to eat, and what to do while in Lexington, Kentucky. 

Step 1: Staying at the Best Hotels in Lexington KY

For anyone planning on flying into Lexington, Kentucky, you’ll be landing in Blue Grass Airport (LEX). The airport is located 6 miles west of downtown Lexington but will situate yourself directly across from the Keeneland Racecourse -- giving you some beautiful horses to watch as you fly in.

If you’re looking for hotels in Lexington KY, you’ll have plenty to choose from. The best one for you will largely depend on where you want to stay -- whether it be downtown or near the airport.

Near the airport, you’ll find various Comfort Inns, a Holiday Inn Express, a Hyatt, a Hampton Inn, and a Courtyard. As far as downtown goes, the best hotels in Lexington KY are the Hilton, the Springhill Suites, and the 21c Museum Hotel.

Step 2: Eating at the Best Restaurants in KY

Lexington, KY is home to some of the most unique and delicious foods you’ll find in the United States. They’ve become known for their Burgoo (local stew) and Hot Brown (turkey and bacon sandwich), so those are two dishes you can’t miss out on. You should also keep a lookout for Derby Pie, Bourbon Balls, and the various styles of barbecue found throughout Lexington.

Some of the best restaurants in KY are found in Lexington. Some downtown staples include Carson’s Food and Drink, Bourbon on Rye, Dudley’s on Short, Oscar Diggs, and Tony’s of Lexington. The West Main Crafting Co. and Blue Door Smokehouse are some honorable mentions.

When staying in Lexington, don’t neglect the delicious food found in some of the best restaurants in KY! 

Step 3: Finding Fun Things to Do in Lexington KY

We’ve already mentioned the horse attractions found here, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in Lexington KY during your stay. Of course, Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Racecourse, and the Red Mile Racecourse should be at the top of your list. They also have gaming for adults if you’re interested in trying to win some money.

With Bourbon being a staple throughout Lexington, there is a wide range of Bourbon tours you can go on. Some of the best Bourbon distilleries in Lexington are The Woodford Reserve, Wild Turkey Distillery, Buffalo Trace, Town Branch Distillery, and Four Roses Distilling Company.

Finally, you can take your family on a historic trip around Lexington. This can include Abraham Lincoln’s wife’s childhood home, the Aviation Museum of Kentucky, the University of Kentucky (which is home to the UK Art Museum), and the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.

With so many fun things to do in Lexington KY, you should be considering booking a trip very soon! What else sounds better than Bourbon, horses, and a bunch of history?