Get to Know Kentucky’s Bourbon Scene
Pictured here: Castel & Key Distillery, located in Woodford County
1. Follow the Legendary Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Kentucky is the birthplace of bourbon, and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a must for whiskey lovers. Visit iconic distilleries like Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, and James E. Pepper for behind-the-scenes tours and guided tastings. Looking to go off the beaten path? The Bourbon Trail Craft Tour features smaller, artisanal distilleries that showcase traditional methods and distinctive flavors.
2. Sip & Savor in Lexington’s Distillery District
Once an abandoned industrial space, Lexington’s Distillery District has transformed into a lively hub of spirits, breweries, and restaurants. Tour the historic James E. Pepper Distillery, sip on inventive cocktails, or enjoy a scoop of bourbon-infused ice cream at Crank & Boom.
3. Shake Up the Evening with Craft Cocktails
Beyond our famous distilleries, Kentucky is home to a thriving cocktail scene. Ona in Lexington and Meta in Louisville serve up expertly crafted drinks using locally distilled spirits, blending tradition with modern mixology.
Ride Into Horse Country
Pictured here: Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky
4. Enjoy the Best of Racing at Keeneland
A visit to Keeneland Race Course is a quintessential Kentucky experience. Whether you're here for the excitement of race day, or just to watch morning workouts, Keeneland’s historic setting and Southern hospitality make it a must-visit.
5. A Tour Through Racing History
Even outside Derby season, Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum offer an inside look at America’s most iconic horse race. Tour the track, explore rare artifacts, and meet retired racehorses.
6. Get Up Close at the Kentucky Horse Park
Located in Lexington, Kentucky Horse Park celebrates the state's deep equestrian heritage. Meet retired champions, watch horse shows, and explore the interactive museum showcasing Kentucky’s horse racing legacy.
Explore Kentucky’s Great Outdoors
Pictured here: Red River Gorge, located in Slade, Kentucky
7. Hiking and Climbing
For adventure seekers, Red River Gorge is a paradise. With over 100 natural sandstone arches and world-class rock climbing, it’s perfect for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park for scenic trails and a sky lift ride with unforgettable views.
8. Venture Underground
Explore the world’s longest known cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park. From guided walking tours to adventurous spelunking experiences, this national treasure is a must-see for nature lovers.
9. Get Wild
Spanning 170,000 acres, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Don’t miss the Elk & Bison Prairie or The Homeplace, a living history farm depicting life in the 1850s.
History, Culture & Unique Attractions
Pictured here: Ashland Estate, located in Lexington, Kentucky
10. Step Back in Time
Located in Bardstown, My Old Kentucky Home State Park is famous for inspiring Stephen Foster’s song. Tour the beautifully preserved Federal Hill mansion, explore the gardens, and catch a live performance of The Stephen Foster Story in the summer months.
11. Walk Lexington’s Historic Streets
From the Mary Todd Lincoln House to the African American Heritage Trail, Lexington’s historic sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. The Ashland Estate, home of Henry Clay, is another must-see for history buffs.
12. Visit the Creation Museum & Ark Encounter
One of Kentucky’s most visited attractions, the Creation Museum offers high-tech exhibits exploring biblical stories, while the Ark Encounter showcases a full-size model of Noah’s Ark.
13. Grab a Bite on the Hot Brown Trail
Follow the Hot Brown Trail in Frankfort to sample Kentucky’s famous open-faced sandwich, first created at Louisville’s Brown Hotel. You’ll find unique spins on this classic dish served at restaurants across the state.
Make Lexington Your Gateway to the Bluegrass
Pictured here: Overbrook Farm, located in Lexington, Kentucky
As the heart of the Bluegrass Region, Lexington is the perfect home base for exploring Kentucky’s top attractions. Here's how to make the most of your Kentucky adventure from the Horse Capital of the World:
Best Day Trips from Lexington
- Bourbon Trail Distilleries – 20-45 min drive
- Red River Gorge – 1 hour drive
- Mammoth Cave National Park – 2.5 hours drive
- Kentucky Derby Museum – 1.25 hours drive
Do Lexington Like a Local
- Distillery District: Enjoy craft spirits, breweries, and live entertainment.
- University of Kentucky Arboretum: Stroll UK’s peaceful gardens and scenic walking trails.
- Lexington Farmers Market: Shop local at the farmers market, open year-round with peak season from April to November.
Insider Tips
Getting Around
- Rent a car for flexibility when visiting distilleries and outdoor attractions.
- Ride-sharing services are great for exploring downtown Lexington.
Best Times To Visit
- April & October: There’s never a bad time to visit Lexington, but spring and autumn offer perfect weather for distillery tours and horse racing at Keeneland.
- Summer: More daylight hours means longer outdoor adventures and patio gatherings.
- Fall: Stunning foliage and comfortable temperatures make for great hiking.
- Winter: Enjoy major attractions with fewer crowds.
Dining, Entertainment & Events
- Thursday Night Live: Jam out to free live music downtown during warm months.
- Bourbon Distillery Tours: Book in advance, especially for popular distilleries.
- Lexington Burger Week (July): Fill your plate during Burger Week, a must for food lovers.
Whether you're here for the races, the whiskey, or the adventure, the Bluegrass State is ready to welcome you. Start planning your Kentucky visit today.
