Lexington KY is within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the nation’s population. It is served by Blue Grass Airport (LEX) with non-stop flights to 17 destinations and connecting service to hundreds more around the globe.
The city is a college town with 18 colleges and universities calling it home. Almost 40 percent of its residents earn a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Blue Grass
The Blue Grass region of central Kentucky captivates people around the world. The area is home to the state’s two signature industries, horse and bourbon. The name also has a worldwide following for its bluegrass music, which can be heard at the Renfro Valley Entertainment Center or impromptu jam sessions at local BBQ joints.
The small Blue Grass Airport is located 6 miles west of downtown Lexington and nestled among horse farms. The airport serves Delta, American, and United Airlines. It is small, but friendly and efficiently handles the over 1.3 million passengers that pass through each year.
The airport only has one lounge, but it’s well worth the price of admission if you are a Delta Club, American Airlines Club, or United Club Member. Otherwise, a day pass is $15. A complimentary buffet and drinks are served daily.
Highbrow Culture
In Lexington, you’ll find a culture of intellect that is centuries in the making. From the turn of the 19th century, when our prosperous new town earned a reputation as an intellectual hotspot and progressive thinker’s center to the modern day, Lexington has become the home of incredible writers, musicians, artists, chefs and people who put the time into the things they love.
With more than 18 colleges, it’s no surprise that Lexington is known as one of the smartest cities in America. Locals here know how to make the most of their education, from soaking up the culture at local museums and galleries to volunteering for community service projects like the Keep Lexington Beautiful and Live Green Lexington campaigns. The city is also full of breweries, including several that offer brewery tours during the week. Try a craft beer at Stella’s or indulge in a classic Kentucky dish, the fried green tomato sandwich. It’s the most delicious way to unwind after a long day.
Outdoors
There’s nothing quite like a good outdoor adventure, especially in Central Kentucky. Lexington is brimming with local parks, nature reserves, hiking trails, and other dedicated areas for getting outdoors and immersing yourself in the great outdoors. Many of these local parks also happen to be situated near delicious local restaurants and cafes, giving you a perfect opportunity to enjoy a springtime picnic!
During your visit to Lexington, take time to explore the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, who inspired Margaret Mitchell’s character Belle Watling in Gone With The Wind. Learn about the fascinating history of the family and their legacy through an informative tour.
Hike around the beautiful Raven Run Sanctuary Trail. This trail is rated easy and is the perfect way to get outside in Lexington. Explore the natural landscape with a scenic view of the Kentucky River along the way. You’ll feel energized after your hike! Then reward yourself with a tasty treat.
Food & Drink
For a decade, it seemed like downtown Lexington had lost some luster. But a recent visit revealed the McKim, Mead and White-designed Gratz Park, the old Kentucky National Bank Building and Victorian Square were being reclaimed by progressive bars, restaurants and shops.
The local farm-to-table scene is a delight for foodies. Carson’s, for instance, offers upscale dining with fresh, flavorful ingredients. They served halibut atop parsnip puree, roasted grapes and red wine jus at one recent evening.
Down the street, a family-owned eatery serves up savory Italian dishes and comfort foods. Try the chicken parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs or the lasagna. The burger menu is impressive too, featuring the Kentucky Cubano (smoked pork and country ham on a black Angus patty with habanero dill pickles and beer cheese mustard aioli) or the Cajun Burger (grilled patty, melted pepper jack and chorizo on a brioche bun). For drinks, hit Campus Pub for the fried chicken night on Wednesdays or the daily deals at The Burl.