Lexington Experience Guide

Brought to you by Visitlex

Welcome to Lexington!

We're thrilled that you're visiting us at Keeneland. Discover how you can add even more fun to your experience by exploring all that the Horse Capital of the World has in store for you. While Lexington may be famous for our world-class equine and bourbon experiences, there’s so much more to do here. Take a look for yourself! 

Be sure to check out our Digital Visitor’s Guide below for insider tips and must-see attractions, and don't miss stopping by the Lexington Visitors Center during your stay for personalized recommendations and assistance, including resources like the VisitLEX Visitors Guide, itinerary planning, and unique retail offerings.  

Restaurants


No matter what you're craving, Lexington has a restaurant that will hit the spot, from global cuisine to Southern staples. So be sure to come hungry—and don't forget to save room for dessert. 

Doodles

Doodles

Doodles

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This spot has become a trendy spot for both breakfast and lunch, that specializes in local and organic ingredients whenever possible.

Dudley's

Dudley's

Dudley's

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A Lexington staple since 1981, with an inventive menu, extensive wine selection, and cozy bar.

lockbox

Lockbox

Lockbox

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Located within 21c Museum Hotel, experience fresh, farm-to-table options that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

Tuk Tuk Snack Shop

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Tuk Tuk Snack Shop's cuisine marries Sri Lankan techniques and ingredients with classic Southern dishes.

Eppings

Epping's

Epping's

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Located in a renovated historic building, Executive Chef Cole Arimes turns menu items into works of art.

Omakase

Omakase

Omakase

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Offering traditional and innovative sushi dishes, skillfully cooked to perfection, every item is prepared to dazzle your senses.

granddam at the manchester

Granddam at the Manchester

Granddam at the Manchester

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The Manchester's expansive Appalachian dining hall offers a reimagined Bluegrass fare from local farms.

carsons

Carson's

Carson's

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Generous portions, prohibition-style cocktails, and unmatched hospitality in a rustic & elegant environment.

Keeneland Track Kitchen

Keeneland Track Kitchen

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Rub elbows with jockeys, owners and trainers while enjoying a hearty and inexpensive meal.

Lexington Neighborhoods & Districts


Experience the neighborhoods of Lexington, brimming with cultural richness, culinary delights, distinctive shops and endless adventures. Explore uniquely Lex spots, historic buildings given new life, and communities that seamlessly blend traditional charm with modern trends. Whether you're in search of local cuisine, unique boutiques, or cultural landmarks, Lexington neighborhoods offer plenty of options for every visitor.

distillery district

Distillery District

The Distillery District has grown into the center of entertainment – with live music venues, unique shopping, bourbon experiences, craft breweries, and the stylish new Manchester Hotel.

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warehouse block

Warehouse Block

The Warehouse Block is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring eclectic dining, boutique favorites, and Lexington’s own Salt Cave.

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summit dining

The Summit at Fritz Farm

The Summit at Fritz Farm blends local heritage with modern offerings. It features almost 70 shops, over 25 dining options and the boutique hotel, Origin Lexington.

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downtown

Downtown

The heart of Lexington – blending historical richness with modern attractions, diverse dining, local breweries, arts, shopping, and lively events.

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Bourbonland


Just below Lexington’s surface there’s a limestone shelf, and the natural spring water that passes through it gives this place life. With 18 innovative distilleries and plenty of bourbon bars and tasting rooms, there’s no shortage of places to experience our native spirit firsthand. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or seasoned enthusiast, you’ll find there is so much to savor in the rich history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. 

castle and key

Castle & Key

Castle & Key

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A Bourbon distillery featuring a limestone castle, elaborate gazebos, sunken gardens, and spring house.

maker's mark

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark

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A picturesque distillery in the countryside of Kentucky, known for its iconic red wax-dipped bottles.

James E Pepper

James E. Pepper

James E. Pepper

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Located in the exciting Distillery District, you can take a tour of the historic distillery, which includes a tasting.

Fresh Bourbon

Fresh Bourbon

Fresh Bourbon

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Recognized as the first African American-owned and produced bourbon since slavery, they offer an unforgettable experience.

Barrel House

Barrel House

Barrel House

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Enjoy a tour and tasting and the unique gift shop, plus local fare and craft cocktails from The Elkhorn Tavern.

bespoken

Bespoken

Bespoken

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Bespoken Spirits Distillery offers handcrafted cocktails & unique tasting experiences in the historic Greyline Station.

Thirsty fox

Thirsty Fox

Thirsty Fox

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Located in Lexington's renovated historic courthouse, this restaurant and bar serves delicious American fare and handcrafted cocktails.

RD1

RD1

RD1

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Telling the story of Lexington's history of bourbon, RD1 has brought back Kentucky's first registered distillery.

Bars & Breweries


While we're proud of our bourbon heritage, Lexington is also home to a thriving craft beer culture with a variety of unique breweries. These neighborhood favorites offer a diverse range of flavors and experiences for beer and cocktail enthusiasts to enjoy.  

mirror twin

Mirror Twin

Their philosophy aims to celebrate the "duality of beer" by always having twin drafts on tap that are identical in grain recipes but with one small variation.

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the burl

Burl Brew

Located in the Distillery District, and attached to The Burl Live music venue, Burl Brew offers no-fuss beers and a cozy and hip atmosphere.

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lost palm

Lost Palm

An upscale, rooftop bar recently listed in People magazine as one of the 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America.

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the grove

The Grove

A combination of brews, cocktails, wines, charcuterie, and food-truck eats... this spot is one of Lexington's newest and most eclectic hot spots.

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Unexpected Experiences


If you're eager to dive deep into the vibrant tapestry of Lexington's local culture, there are plenty of unexpected activities to be explored. Take a walk through the wildflowers at the Arboretum or enjoy local live music - there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

 

TeeDees

Tee Dee's Lounge

Tee Dee's Lounge

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Tee Dee's Lounge is a hidden gem and renowned as a jazz hotspot. Open on Monday’s only, this nightclub has been a mainstay in our community for decades. 

arboretum

UK Arboretum

UK Arboretum

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The Arboretum is the state’s botanical garden. The 100 acres includes plants and trees from Kentucky’s seven physiographic regions.

Thursday night live

Thursday Night Live

Thursday Night Live

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Every Thursday night from April  - October, locals and visitors enjoy live music downtown at Thursday Night Live.

Farmers market

Lexington Farmer's Markets

Lexington Farmer's Markets

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Every Saturday, the Farmers' Market sets up downtown at Henry A. Tandy Park with over 65 members selling Kentucky Proud products.

summit at fritz farm

The Summit Shopping

The Summit Shopping

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The Summit at Fritz Farm is a finely curated, mixed-use destination boasting nearly 70 shops, and 25 dining options.

21c

21C Museum

21C Museum

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More than a hotel, 21c Lexington features contemporary art exhibition spaces that are open free of charge to the public.

Bites of the Bluegrass

Bites of the Bluegrass

Bites of the Bluegrass

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Your foodie guide will take you on an insightful tour where you will taste delicious farm-to-fork cuisine and learn about Lexington along the way.


Tips & Tricks

Make sure your experience at Keeneland is nothing short of spectacular with our insider tips and tricks for a seamless journey. Here are a few pointers so that you can make the most of your experience. 

Plan Your Stay in advance

Accommodations fill up quickly when Keeneland is racing! Click here to take a look at where VIsitLEX recommends you stay, nearby to Keeneland.

Book your tours in advance

Dining, Bourbon Distillery and Horse Country tours are popular during Keeneland racing!

add an extra day

With plenty of other unique experiences to have in Lexington, certainly plan to stay long and extend your trip beyond your day at the races to see all Lexington has to offer. Even better, flights on Tuesdays usually have better rates!

remember to check the weather

The forecast in Lexington is known to shift, so it's always a good idea to pack a variety of outfit options.



Customized Itineraries

Looking for more? Check out VisitLEX.com to connect you with all the best Lexington has to offer.

Follow the “Blue Horse” on social media @visitlex to connect with the best of Lexington! Whether it's exploring historical landmarks or discovering hidden gems, we've got you covered. Don’t forget to share your adventures with us by using #ShareTheLEX.