Worried there won’t be much to do in the Bluegrass when the bluegrass isn’t really bluegrassing? You shouldn’t be. Lexington is every bit as lovely and lively in the winter as it is the rest of the year, with plenty of seasonal events and attractions to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Here’s a few of our favorites.
1. See a Different Side of Horse Country
Pictured here: Denali Stud Farm
Lexington is the Horse Capital of the World all year round. You can always take a leisurely drive by the beautiful snow-dusted pastures on your own, but Visit Horse Country can take you behind the scenes at many of Lexington’s iconic horse farms to meet racing’s superstars. Both Keeneland and the Kentucky Horse Park become winter wonderlands for horse lovers. Stay indoors and get a look at how champion Thoroughbreds are fueled at Hallway Feeds. And winter is also a great time to check out Lexington’s vitally important equine care facilities like Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, the Secretariat Center, and New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, which work to support the industry's stars behind the scenes. Just check online or call ahead for tour availability.
2. Experience the Brewgrass Trail & Bourbonland on the Rocks
Pictured here: Harvey’s Bar at The Grove
Winter is the perfect time to feel that warm “Kentucky Hug,” whether you’re sipping rare pours, exploring 18 nearby distilleries decked out for the season, or sampling craft beer and cider along the Brewgrass Trail.
Unwind beside a crackling fire at Elkhorn Tavern, a Distillery District favorite known for its rustic atmosphere and bourbon-forward menu. Slip into the book-lined backrooms of Charlie Brown’s, or pair comfort food with a rich pour of bourbon at the Rackhouse Tavern. For unforgettable skyline views, head to Infinity: Rooftop Restaurant + Bar, where a retractable glass roof keeps things toasty no matter the weather. Prefer to take the fun outside? Grab a beer by the fire pit at the Break Room, or explore downtown favorites like Harvey’s Bar & Beer Garden for seasonal drinks and easygoing hangs as temperatures drop.
3. Let Your Wellness and Creativity Bloom
Pictured here: Poppy’s Flower Bar
It’s the perfect season to recharge your mind, body, and creative spirit, and Lexington has plenty of ways to help you hit reset. Sink into deep relaxation at the Lexington Salt Cave, unwind with a massage and HydraFacial at the Spa at Griffin Gate, or brighten your day with cold-pressed juices and organic smoothies from The Press Juice & Health Bar. Craving some luxury? The Kentucky Castle offers spa services, classes, and culinary experiences, all on one magical property. And when you're ready to spark your creativity, build your own bouquet at Poppy’s Flower Bar, browse unique gifts at Poppy & Pomelo, or settle into the speakeasy at Trifecta: Glass – Art – Lounge with a view straight into a working glass-blowing studio.
4. Eat, Drink, and Be Cozy
Pictured here: Millstone at Dudley Square
Home to multiple James Beard Award-nominated chefs and recognized as a Top 20 Culinary City in the South by The Local Palate, Lexington’s dedication to farm-to-table dining and a vibrant culinary scene have solidified its position as a must-visit destination for food lovers. The weather may be cooling down, but our seasonal ingredients don’t take the winter off as local chefs continue to spotlight Kentucky’s winter harvest with dishes that are as comforting as they are creative. Warm up with seasonal beverages from charming cafes like Lussi Brown, Brevede Coffee, Char on Ashland, Chocolate Holler, and Third Street Stuff. Dine inside a decked-out Airstream at Lost Palm in The Manchester. Swing by the Lexington Farmers' Market at Greyline Station for fresh Kentucky fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and more. Then settle in for brunch at Café Patachou, seasonal Italian plates at Mileta, inventive Southern dishes at Minton’s at 760, or American favorites at Millstone. Find more places to indulge this winter on our Restaurants page.
5. Warm Up to Lexington’s Rich History
Pictured here: Lexington History Museum
Winter is the perfect time to reflect upon Lexington’s fascinating history and alluring architecture. Explore Camp Nelson National Monument's new exhibit, In the Footsteps of Freedom, to learn about the role the site played in the Civil War. LexHistory, formerly the Lexington History Museum, offers a fantastic overview of the city’s most notable people, places, and happenings. And don’t miss the Keeneland Library, home to one of the world’s largest Thoroughbred history collections.
6. Step Inside Our Arts, Music, and Culture
Pictured here: Tee Dee Young at Tee Dee's Lounge
The cold weather can’t freeze Lexington’s culture of creativity. From live music to gallery shows to world-class performances, winter is the perfect time to experience the city’s flourishing arts scene indoors. Catch a concert at The Burl, which hosts local and national talent inside a beautifully restored train depot, or at Al's Bar, where you can enjoy intimate music and delicious Caribbean-fusion bites. Experience live jazz and blues from Tee Dee Young himself at Tee Dee's Lounge on Monday nights. For theater, dance, comedy, and Broadway tours, the Lexington Opera House is unmatched. For a good laugh, visit Comedy Off Broadway, Lexington's home for stand-up comedy. Art lovers will find plenty to warm up to as well, from exhibitions at Institute 193 to community-driven programming at the Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, the historic Loudoun House, and the UK Art Museum, which offers free admission. Explore more of Lexington’s creative scene on our Arts and Culture page.
