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This text—shared in partnership with our associates at VisitLex—is a part of 52Cities, a column the place we share editor-curated and community-loved suggestions for visiting our favourite locations.
As a local Atlantan, I’m no stranger to visiting Southern cities—spring breaks spent in Florida seashore cities, Woman Scouts journeys to Savannah, an particularly memorable New 12 months’s Eve in Nashville, and loads of weekend getaways within the Carolinas. However up till not too long ago, I’d by no means spent a lot time in Kentucky. Positive, there was the household pilgrimage to Mammoth Cave after I was an adolescent, too cool to understand the wonders of eyeless fish (Google it) and the world’s largest underground cave system, however the Bluegrass State had but to drag me in. After a latest journey to Lexington, all of that modified.
Now, I’m downright hooked on the magic of that metropolis—its many-patterned jockey silks and early morning race monitor sounds; its edible flower gardens and bustling farmers’ markets; its wealthy bourbon historical past and new-found love of imaginative sake. Lexington is the birthplace of monitor stars like Secretariat and residential to 14 bourbon distilleries, together with Contemporary Bourbon, one of many “first African American-owned distiller[ies] since slavery.” Its limestone-rich soil is perfect for breeding horses, distilling spirits, and rising all types of crops, however most significantly, Lexington’s panorama is good for fostering the nice and cozy, welcoming neighborhood you’ll discover there at present.
Whether or not you’re stopping in when the Breeders’ Cup is on the town, in search of out town’s many LGBTQ+ locations, or just in the hunt for the right weekend journey, Lexington has just a little one thing for everybody.
1. The Manchester Resort, 941 Manchester St.
Cozy beds, woody accents, clawfoot tubs, and loads of pure gentle—what extra might you need out of a boutique resort? Oh, it’s additionally strolling distance from the Distillery District, which is house to breweries, eating places, and a cidery, plus it’s obtained two on-site eating places: Granddam and Misplaced Palm (extra on these later).
2. 21c Museum Resort Lexington, 167 West Fundamental St.
Modern artwork lovers, this one’s for you. The 21c Museum Resort boasts unimaginable metropolis views, a handy downtown location, and galleries crammed with work from native artists. (They’ve additionally obtained charming, big blue penguins to greet you within the foyer.)
3. The Elwood Resort, 444 Parkway Dr.
Described as “a tribute to up to date Southern way of life,” The Elwood Resort is simply as stunning on the skin as it’s on the within, because of the sprawling floral mural on its facade. It’s obtained a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic, an in-house bar and restaurant known as Fiddletree Kitchen, and it’s pet-friendly.
Photograph by @pearlspizzapie by way of Instagram
4. Pearl’s, 133 North Limestone
By night time, Pearl’s is a wood-fired pizza and pure wine bar, however by day they serve wood-fired bagels—plain with cream cheese or as a sandwich that includes eggs from Black Soil KY, an agribusiness whose aim is to reconnect Black Kentuckians with their agricultural heritage—and most significantly, espresso.
5. Josie’s, 821 Chevy Chase Pl.
Sit at Josie’s horseshoe-shaped bar and settle in for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and even dinner. We’re talkin’ fluffy waffles, loaded omelets, deli sandwiches, specialty burgers, and wedge salads, all served with a aspect of Southern consolation.
6. Blue Door Smokehouse, 226 Walton Ave.
You’ll discover a number of the metropolis’s greatest barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse, from tender, smoky brisket to juicy child again ribs. They’re open Monday by Saturday from 11 a.m. till they promote out, so go early to keep away from disappointment.
7. Nourished People, 101 W Loudon Ave. Suite 168
Positioned in Greyline Station, this cozy cafe serves a powerful menu of hearty, from-scratch vegetarian dishes (like their pesto grilled cheese on sourdough), together with loads of dairy- and gluten-free choices.
8. The Social Vegan, 101 W Loudon Ave.
If ingenious vegan fare is extra your scene, head subsequent door to The Social Vegan (additionally situated in Greyline Station). Their Southern-leaning choices embody cashew cheese dip and chips, buffalo cauliflower wings, and fried oyster mushrooms.
9. North Lime Espresso & Donuts, 101 W Loudon Ave. Suite 160
Select from their lineup of on a regular basis donuts (Funkfetti, Chocolate Iced, Cinnamon Sugar) or choose one of many ever-changing Specialty Donuts du jour. True to kind, North Lime has equally artistic caffeinated choices, just like the espresso-filled, peanut buttery, Shaken PB Cup, however nobody will decide you should you go for one thing less complicated.
10. Natalia’s Pastry Store, 101 W Loudon Ave.
Nestled among the many many storefronts in Greyline Station, this Dominican-owned pastry store has freshly baked goodies starting from savory empanadas to candy cupcakes and every part in between.
11. Rise Up Pizza, 101 W Loudon Ave. Suite 112
Should you’re fortunate sufficient to seek out your self at Rise Up on a Saturday, go forward and seize a #SaturdaySlice, their completely crusty, Sicilian-style slices (I like to recommend a nook piece). Or, order one in every of their specialty personal-sized pies any day of the week.
12. Zim’s Cafe, 215 W Fundamental St. Unit 25
Positioned contained in the Outdated Courthouse, Zim’s is an off-the-cuff, family-friendly spot from the eight-time James Beard Basis Award nominee, Chef Outia Michel. Their menu adjustments based mostly on what’s in season, however it at all times incorporates a bounty of recent produce, meat, and extra from Kentucky farmers. Psst: Lexington’s Customer Heart is situated in the identical constructing, so this can be a excellent place to cease in if you would like to additional immerse your self in all issues LEX.
13. Smithtown Seafood, 501 W sixth St.
One other joint from Outia Michel, Smithtown Seafood is all about—you guessed it—seafood. Get pleasure from oysters on the half shell, chilled lump crab dip, fried catfish sandwiches, and different regionally sourced delights.
14. A Cup of Commonwealth, A number of Areas
On the lookout for a cup of Joe to begin your day? Cease by one in every of their places and gasoline up on espresso constructed from sustainably-grown beans.
15. Holly Hill Inn, 426 N Winter St, Halfway, KY
Should you can solely squeeze one meal from Ouita Michel into your journey, Holly Hill Inn is the spot. Helmed by Culinary Director Tyler McNabb, this pioneering farm-to-table restaurant crafts whimsical prix fixe menus round seasonal, hyperlocal fare in a bucolic setting simply outdoors of Lexington.
16. Lockbox, 167 W Fundamental St.
Eating at Lockbox is a no brainer should you’re staying on the 21c Museum Resort (it’s situated within the resort’s foyer), however its downtown location makes it a handy dinner spot for anybody, visitor or not. Order a bunch of bites like their pimento cheese and biscuit-filled share board for the desk, or select a couple of of their show-stopping mains.
17. Crēaux, 310 W Brief St.
Impressed by all issues New Orleans, Crēaux is Lexington’s reply to Bourbon Avenue—meaning stay music, Hurricanes, and rattling good Southern-style fried fish.
18. Granddam, 941 Manchester St.
Named for a retired matriarchal racehorse residing her greatest life as a retiree, The Manchester Resort’s Granddam is all about taking it straightforward in model. Sip a tableside julep whilst you peruse the Appalachian-inspired menu of reimagined Bluegrass fare, sourced primarily from native purveyors.
19. Misplaced Palm, 941 Manchester St.
If tropical, ‘70s Miami vibes are extra your factor, head upstairs at The Manchester Resort to the Misplaced Palm rooftop bar. They’ve obtained seafood towers, shrimp mofongo, and tacos al pastor until 11 p.m., plus loads of rum-based cocktails, beer, and wine.
20. Proud Mary BBQ, 9079 Outdated Richmond Rd.
Perched on the Kentucky Riverbank, Proud Mary is thought for his or her killer barbecue, chilly drinks, and stay music.
21. Corto Lima, 101 W Brief St.
James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy is behind this downtown, Latin-inspired restaurant. From shrimp ceviche to Peruvian hen, just about every part on the menu pairs properly with one in every of their many signature margaritas.
22. Crank & Increase, A number of Areas
This craft ice cream parlor has two places in Lexington, however it’s their Distillery District spot that particularly piqued my curiosity. Having fun with a frosty candy deal with after a day at a brewery? Sure please.
23. Little Fork, 1170 Manchester St. Suite 140
Positioned at Sensible Fowl Cider within the Distillery District, this meals truck sources elements from Black-owned farms by a partnership with Black Soil KY to serve up loaded hen poppers, fried inexperienced tomato burgers, and different cider-friendly fare.
24. Goodfellas Pizzeria, A number of Areas
With a number of places across the metropolis—together with one within the Distillery District—Goodfellas is a handy, community-loved pizzeria that’s excellent for grabbing a pie or two.
25. Lussi Brown, 114 Church St.
Pronounced “Lucy” Brown, this all-day espresso store serves its expertly crafted cocktails from round midday till they shut at 10 p.m., Wednesday by Sunday. Sit at one in every of their sidewalk tables and revel in a Watermelon Mojito, Chilly Long-established, or Earl Gray Mule.
26. Sensible Fowl Cider Co., 1170 Manchester St. #140
This family-fun operation crafts small-batch ciders utilizing one of the best Kentucky-grown apples, together with harder-to-find varietals grown in neighboring states like Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. With seasonal specials like Frosé (aka frozen Rosé Cider) and classics like their semi-dry Commonwealth Gold, you’ve obtained loads of choices to select from.
27. Ona’s, 108 Church St.
Open seven days every week from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Ona’s is a divey, no-fuss bar that caters to a wide range of tastes. Suppose: $3 Excessive Life, a rotating record of pure wines, and craft cocktails.
28. Darling Wine Bar, 101 W Loudon Ave. Suite 164
This Greyline Station spot is all about pure wine, however they’ve obtained some chilly beer too, if that’s your factor. Previously The Breeze, Darling Wine Bar can be a bottle store in case you’re seeking to inventory your resort fridge.
29. Crossings, 117 N Limestone
A cornerstone of Lexington’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood, Crossings is a queer, downtown dive bar that’s been round for 30 years. Its present house owners are dedicated to creating an inclusive setting for all who enter and describe it as “a house for queers, misfits, and charity.”
30. Talon Vineyard & Vineyards, 7086 Tates Creek Rd.
Established in 1999 as Fayette County’s first vineyard, Talon Vineyard & Vineyards is a perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon tasting wine and absorbing the surroundings. Deliver a picnic blanket and a few snacks to make a full day of it.
31. Mirror Twin Brewing, 725 Nationwide Ave.
Named for co-founder Derek DeFranco’s mirror twin (an equivalent twin with asymmetrical options), this brewery is all about neighborhood, good vibes, and nice beer. They’re continually including new beers to the draught lists of their two side-by-side taprooms—one is pretty normal in design whereas the opposite is extra of a laid-back lounge.
32. Myriad Meadery, 732 Nationwide Ave.
One other brainchild of the Mirror Twin people, Myriad focuses on all issues mead (honey wine). Lead Mazer Doug Value, additionally a Mirror Twin brewer, is behind their many mead varieties you’ll discover on faucet, from Blackberry Espresso Session Mead to a Cranberry Hibiscus Mead Spritzer.
33. The Void Sake Firm, 949 Nationwide Ave. Suite 190
Sake won’t be the very first thing that involves thoughts whenever you consider Kentucky, however belief me, the parents at The Void know what they’re doing. Go to their sake brewery and check out a sake flight, or go for sake in slushie kind if it’s an particularly scorching day.
34. Ethereal Brewing, 102 W Vine St.
Should you’re already within the Distillery District, you may as properly mozy on over to Ethereal Brewing, aka the one brewery on the town with a devoted yeast lab. They’ve additionally obtained a dog-friendly faucet room full with dart boards and the occasional taco stand.
35. Bourbon on Rye, 115 W Fundamental St.
This Prohibition-style bar and restaurant focuses on elevated cocktails in addition to an in depth record of bourbon and rye, naturally. Can’t discover one thing that tickles your fancy on their record? Ask the bartender for the uncommon bourbon record.
36. Harvey’s Bar, 200 W Fundamental St.
A part of the six-business collective often called The Grove, Harvey’s is a colourful, vigorous bar with indoor and outside seating out there. They’ve obtained beer, wine, and cocktails, and the decor is someplace between a speakeasy and “Alice in Wonderland.”
37. The Thirsty Fox, 215 W Fundamental St. #50
Inside Zim’s Cafe you’ll discover one other booze-forward institution: The Thirsty Fox. Their menu options approachable wines, native beers, distinctive cocktails, and, in fact, bourbon.
38. County Membership, 555 Jefferson St.
The sister restaurant of Ona’s, County Membership focuses on refreshing cocktails and crushable, pure wine. Their meals menu is targeted on the artwork of smoked meats, so it’s value sticking round for a chunk.
39. Keeneland, 4201 Versailles Rd.
Whether or not you come for a Crafted Occasion or a great ol’ usual horse race, Keeneland is certain to thrill. Breakfast on the Monitor is very family-friendly, so carry the kiddos alongside and watch because the jockeys heat up with the horses. Additionally they supply excursions of the well-manicured grounds all 12 months lengthy in case breakfast is not your factor.
40. Lexington Farmers’ Market, 399 S Broadway
Meet a few of these native purveyors IRL on the Lexington Farmers’ Market. The market’s date and placement will differ relying on the time of 12 months, so be sure you examine their web site earlier than you propose to go.
41. Little Sparrow Productions, A number of Areas
From drag bingo with prizes to emo drag brunch, Little Sparrow Productions places on spectacular drag exhibits all through central and southern Kentucky. Verify their Instagram for the newest present schedule, and be sure you carry greenback payments to tip the queens.
42. Mill Ridge Farm, 2800 Bowman Mill Rd.
Horse ladies, this one’s for you. The oldsters at Mill Ridge Farm have been elevating and promoting racehorses since 1962. Their family-owned farm has bred a powerful variety of Derby winners, together with Secretariat, Giacomo, Barbaro, and Avenue Sense. Guests can tour the farm, however understand that it is best should you arrive in your personal car as there’s some driving required. For greatest extra particulars on easy methods to go to, try visithorsecountry.com.
43. Bites of the Bluegrass, A number of Areas
This strolling tour is ideal for these seeking to get a really feel for the native meals scene. Along with lots of bites (and cocktails, should you select that possibility), your educated information will fill you in on Lexington’s historical past, too.
44. The Legacy Path, 318 West Loudon Ave.
If it’s not too scorching and also you’re in search of an out of doors exercise, head on over to this shared use greenway path for a motorcycle, run, or stroll by town. The path begins at Isaac Murphy Memorial Backyard and continues for 12 miles to the Kentucky Horse Park.
45. SoulFeast Week, A number of Areas
Based in 2021 by siblings Martina and Marcellus Barksdale, SoulFeast Week is an annual 10-day celebration of Black farmers, cooks, and restaurateurs in central Kentucky. It’s value planning your whole journey round this week—the festivities embody a hip hop brunch, a diaspora dinner, Soulteenth Fest, and extra. The dates shift barely yearly, however the week at all times facilities round Juneteenth (the 2023 SoulFeast Week was June 16 by June 25).
46. The Kentucky Fortress, 230 Pisgah Pke.
That’s proper—Kentucky has its very personal fort, and it’s situated proper outdoors of Lexington in a city known as Versailles (pronounced “ver-SAYLES”). Guide a tour of the fort, farm, or each, then take pleasure in a meal on the on-site restaurant.
47. Contemporary Bourbon Distillery 377 E Fundamental St.
Expertise a full sensory bourbon tasting on the Contemporary Bourbon Distillery. You’ll want to purchase tickets prematurely by way of their web site, so plan accordingly.
48. Classic Remedy, 101 W Loudon Ave. Suite 178
Pop into Classic Remedy when you’ve had your fill of snacks at Greyline Station and put together to be delighted by the sheer quantity of well-curated classic garments and diverse ‘90s ephemera. Bonus: They provide free transport, so you may store their cabinets even whenever you’re again house.
49. The Home, 945 Nationwide Ave.
The Home is a traditional booth-style vintage and classic store with assorted distributors all through. Browse for artwork, pottery, house items, books, clothes, equipment, furnishings, and extra—and be sure you say hello to the store cat.
50. Wearhouse, 941 Nationwide Ave. #120
This classic boutique focuses on high-end clothes, equipment, furnishings, and artwork. Homeowners Shanda and Liz are sustainability advocates and classic fans, so that you’ll be in good arms whenever you step into their store.
51. Forage, 803 N Limestone Suite 170
Think about this your one-stop store for vegetation, flowers, and sustainable residing. Forage is house to Lexington’s first refillery, a spot the place you may refill bottles of all-purpose cleaner, toothpaste, shampoo, and extra.
52. Creatures of Whim, 126 N Broadway
At Creatures of Whim, you’ll discover a curated assortment of handmade items comparable to clothes, equipment, and candles. You’ll additionally discover tarot playing cards, crystals, sage, and ritual instruments.
The place are your favourite locations to go to in Lexington? Inform us within the feedback under!
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