Tops of Whiskey Barrel from Afar

Things to do in Lexington

From horse racing to local festivals, there’s always something to see and do in Lexington. Read about some of our local happenings that might coincide with your visit.

Bourbon Trail

With 95% of the world’s bourbon distilled right here in Kentucky, there’s a whole lot to discover nearby. Enjoy a taste of the region’s best bourbons on a road trip-style experience to visit the Bluegrass State’s signature distilleries.

Snifter glass of brandy standing on an oak barrel in a cellar

Lexington Arts

The third Friday of every other month, downtown Lexington comes alive with LexArts’ HOP. At this signature event, local galleries, museums, artists’ studios, and other creative spaces open their doors to the public.

University of Kentucky Basketball Games

Enjoy the local sports spirit with The Kentucky Wildcats. This men’s basketball team representing the University of Kentucky is the most successful NCAA Division I basketball program in history in terms of both all-time wins (2,320) and all-time winning percentage (.765).

Basketball in hoop

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Explore over 10 miles of hiking trails providing access to streams, meadows, and woodlands at Raven Run, a 734-acre nature sanctuary dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the Kentucky River Palisades and early Kentucky history.

steam rising in the woods near a stone stairway

Red River Gorge

Known for its world class climbing and hiking, Red River Gorge offers breathtaking natural beauty. Adventurous visitors also enjoy the Gorge’s zip-lines, underground kayak tours, mountain biking, bird watching, guided activities and more.

Green forest with a river

Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms

Visit with a herd of over 200 rescued and retired horses at this unique thoroughbred retirement farm. Known as a “living-history museum of horse racing”, the farm attracts nearly 20,000 visitors annually who come to swoon over some of the biggest racing champions of all time.

Horses grazing in a field.

One of the premier performing arts centers in the region, the Lexington Opera House offers something for everyone: ballet, opera, children’s productions, family shows, comedy, music, and professional national BROADWAY tours.

Founded by Horsemen more than 80 years ago, Keeneland is the world’s largest Thoroughbred auction house and hosts two celebrated racing events each year.

Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States between 1805 and 1910, the vibrant site offers experiences designed to ignite curiosity, expand imaginations and inspire generations.

With 130,000 sq ft and its prime location, Central Bank Center is a hospitable destination to presenters and guests alike.

A family-run horse farm started in 1924 by the Wrights and later carried on by Henryk de Kwiatkowski’s estate, Calumet is an integral part of Lexington’s equestrian history.

In partnership with The Red Mile and Tattersalls, Lexington Selected hosts the area’s most esteemed Yearling and Mixed horse sales.

Home to the UK Wildcats, Kroger Field underwent a $126 million renovation in 2015 and continues to provide fans with the ultimate game-day atmosphere.

An iconic destination for harness racing and gaming, the Red Mile and Keeneland continue to work together to preserve the equestrian heritage of the Bluegrass region.

Recently celebrating its 150th anniversary, The University of Kentucky is as much known for its dynamic sports programs as it is for its diverse academics.