The New York Times’ Lexington Favorites

Get the scoop on every spot the New York Times considers to be a “must” when in Lexington.

Around here, it’s no secret that Lexington is the perfect balance between city and countryside. Sip bourbon from world-renowned distilleries, then you can taste farm-to-table food at award-winning restaurants. And just 10 minutes outside of our charming downtown, you can see hundreds of magnificent Thoroughbred farms in Horse Country.

The New York Times recently highlighted Lexington for its authentic Southern experiences and pastoral beauty, providing their favorite spots to eat, drink and experience the Bluegrass.

THE FARMS

Lexington is named the Horse Capital of the World for good reason. Surrounded by more than 450 beautiful horse farms, nurseries and equine clinics, it’s easy to see how horses are ingrained into every part of our culture.

“Eager to expand audiences for racing, these stately farms, noted for their architecturally distinct barns and pastures encircled by double-railed fences, are throwing open the barn doors to tours.” — The New York Times

Below are just a few of the spots you can visit to see where the world’s top Thoroughbreds are bred, born, raised, raced and retired.

Godolphin at Jonabell

With 800 acres of pristine stud land, complete with individual grazing paddocks, foaling units and covered barns, this Thoroughbred nursery is one of the best. Today, Jonabell is home to some of the leading stallions in North America, including Kentucky Derby winners Nyquist, Street Sense and Animal Kingdom.

Claiborne Farm

This famous Thoroughbred farm is the birthplace of 10 Kentucky Derby winners and was the former home of Secretariat. Claiborne is considered to be one of the most influential breeding operations in American history and has been around for over 100 years. Visit today and see some of the future and former champions of horse racing, as well as their horse cemetery, where Secretariat and other famed horses are buried.

Mill Ridge Farm

If you want to experience a farm known for raising and selling first class Thoroughbreds, then Mill Ridge Farm is the one for you. Founded in 1962, owner Alice Headley Chandler became the first American woman to breed an Epsom Derby winner in 1968, just six years later. Tours begin in the breeding shed, where visitors can be sure to gain an understanding of why the Bluegrass is so uniquely suited for the Thoroughbred as well as learn the unique history of the Headley family’s involvement in the horse industry.

“Mill Ridge Farm is a popular nursery among Horse Country members, and a photogenic place to pet foals and feed buckets of oats to feisty yearlings.” – The New York Times

Coolmore at Ashford Stud

Behind the historic stone walls at Ashford, you’ll find some of the most successful Thoroughbreds in the history of horse racing. This prolific stud farm is the home of American Pharaoh and Justify, both winners of the coveted Triple Crown. While selfies with American Pharaoh are no guarantee, Ashford welcomes visitors to tour the farm and see what goes on behind the scenes.

“To visit Coolmore is not just to appreciate the beauty of the chestnut Justify or American Pharaoh… It’s also a fascinating and visceral tutorial in horse-racing economics.” – The New York Times

THE BOURBONS

James E. Pepper Distillery

After lying abandoned for fifty years, this distillery is back. Using filtered limestone water from the Town Branch Creek, this place is one-of-a-kind. When you take a tour, expect to taste raw distillate right off the still, known as “White Dog,” and then take your tasting glass home. Be sure to take a look at the limestone well before you leave.

“The 1930s-vintage distillery languished, abandoned, for more than 50 years before Mr. Peay found it. Reopened in July with a tasting center, the distillery is next to the Town Branch of Elkhorn Creek, once a water source for whiskey.” – The New York Times

Castle & Key Distillery

Built in 1887 by Col. E.H. Taylor, Castle & Key Distillery featured an actual castle, a classical springhouse and beautifully manicured sunken gardens. The estate changed owners over the next century and was eventually abandoned. Until now. The founders at Castle & Key have brought the original vision for this distillery back to life, but on an even bigger scale. With distillery grounds this magnificent, it’s worth stopping by just to marvel at the architectural beauty. Bourbon, dry gin and vodka are currently available for tasting.

“The restored, 113-acre grounds hosts Colonel Taylor’s castle home, European-style gardens and a walking path.” – The New York Times

Woodford Reserve Distillery

Drive through the rolling hills and beautiful Thoroughbred farms of Versailles, KY, and you’ll find yourself at Woodford Reserve Distillery. Take a tour and learn their precise steps to pull the five sources of flavor found in every bottle of their bourbon. With over 200 different flavors in every sip of Woodford Reserve, Master Tasters will show you how to properly taste bourbon and identify distinct flavors. Keep an eye for horses as you approach Woodford, you might just drive past a Kentucky Derby winner.