If you’re the type of person who prefers to stay close to the action, then a hotel in downtown Lexington is the perfect choice for you! Enjoy a full list of where to stay in Lexington or read on for some of the most convenient hotels in our downtown.
Certainly one of Lexington’s more unique hotel offerings, the 21c Museum Hotel gives you the opportunity to sleep at a contemporary art museum. You heard that right, 21c is home to one of Lexington’s most popular contemporary art museums—which is totally free to the public. In addition to the museum, 21c houses a chef-driven restaurant named Lockbox. Lockbox features a menu with a unique point of view, and it’s committed to both quality, and supporting regional farmers. Its location simply cannot be beat, as it is located in the heart of downtown Lexington—making it the perfect choice for those who prefer to stay close to the action. This 88 room hotel includes amenities such as: free Wi-Fi, 24-hour valet service, a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, and pet-friendly rooms. This 21c location is also home to the Harmon Room, a one-of-a-kind experience inspired by the popular Netflix series ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ which blends art with accommodation.
Nestled in the heart of Bluegrass Country this boutique hotel is beaming with Southern grace and charm. The recently renovated Campbell House is conveniently located near downtown, and a mere 4 miles from both the Bluegrass Airport and legendary Keeneland Racecourse. It’s location is also ideal for exploring the best of Lexington’s shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The nearby Kentucky Horse Park, University of Kentucky, or many local bourbon distilleries are just a few of the experiences Lexington has to offer. Amenities include: complimentary parking & Wi-Fi, business and fitness centers, 25,000+ sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, indoor and outdoor dining venues, and it’s pet friendly.
Having once served the community as Lexington Clinic, this stylish boutique hotel has been part of the historic Gratz Park neighborhood for over 100 years. Their rooms are conveniently located within walking distance from Rupp Arena and Lexington Convention Center, as well as some of the finest shopping and dining experiences in all of Lexington. Amenities include: free parking, business and fitness centers, an on-site restaurant, and a peaceful outdoor terrace and fire pit area.
The new Lexington Marriott City Center stands tall in the heart of downtown Lexington, KY. It’s perfect for professionals, as it reflects the lifestyle of those looking to seamlessly blend work and play. Conveniently, this hotel is only minutes from the University of Kentucky, Lexington Convention Center, Rupp Arena, Keeneland Racetrack and UK Good Samaritan Hospital. It’s also within easy walking distance of Lexington's trendiest restaurants and boutiques. You’ll feel inspired by this hotel's chic atmosphere and amenities like: virtual fitness classes, concierge services, rooftop, and outdoor seasonal pool. Don’t miss out on a chance to visit Infinity: A Skybar & Café, this hotel's signature restaurant known for its delectable local fare and breathtaking views of downtown.
Attached to the new Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena, this downtown landmark is at the center of all the action. It’s the perfect place for UK fans looking to catch a game, or for those looking to get a feel for the lively downtown scene. The Hyatt Regency is dedicated to making your stay as comfortable as possible with amenities like: free Wi-Fi, room service, concierge, laundry, a fitness center and pool, digital check-in, and it’s very own on-site restaurant and bar. Its downtown location means it’s close to some of Lexington’s best shopping and dining destinations, while being only a few miles away from the famous Keeneland Racetrack.
The Hilton Lexington/Downtown is conveniently only a four minutes walk to Rupp Arena, and less than half a mile to Central Bank Center. Additionally, The University of Kentucky is a mile away. You’ll be able to enjoy views of Triangle Park and downtown Lexington from their rooms. Amenities include: room service, an indoor pool, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, café, and bar with more than 150 bourbons and craft beers. The Hyatt is the perfect selection for professionals on-the-go, with its meeting rooms and shuttle service to the airport.
These hotels are within walking or driving distance of some of downtown’s most exciting amenities, including restaurants, bars, and shops.
Lexington’s food scene is diverse, featuring flavors from around the world. Places like Carson’s and Columbia Steakhouse are perfect for a delicious meal in a nice, yet relaxed setting. Corto Lima and Agave & Rye are colorful downtown spots bursting with South & Latin American flavors. Dudley’s on Short is an elevated downtown dining spot that’s perfect for nights which call for a “nice dinner.” Or if you just need a good slice of pizza after a night out, there’s the always reliable Goodfellas’ downtown location.
Downtown is also home to a thriving nightlife scene with something for everyone. McCarthy’s Irish Pub and Molly Brooke’s are the perfect places to catch a game while enjoying some tasty bar grub. If you’re a bourbon lover, you’ve come to the right place, as most places downtown have stellar bourbon cocktail options. Some local favorites include: Bourbon on Rye, Seltzer Club, and Bar Ona. In 2018, Bar Ona was even named one of the 21 best bars in America by Esquire magazine. Lexington is also an extremely LGBTQIA+ friendly city, and has several popular queer bars. Crossings is a dive bar that’s a great place to grab a beer or cocktail, whereas SoundBar is the place to go if you prefer to dance. You can get the best of both worlds at Bar Complex, which has a dance floor upstairs, and is home to Lexington’s biggest drag show every Friday and Saturday.
Shopping is another huge part of downtown’s culture, as there are all kinds of shops throughout Lexington. There’s no shortage of boutiques, vintage/antique shops, and big name brands like Urban Outfitters. Outdoor shopping center The Summit at Fritz Farm, is just a short drive away and has some shops you won’t be able to find anywhere else in Lexington. Greyline Station, also just a short drive away, is another local favorite. Once a bus station, this space has since been renovated into a unique shopping experience, and is now home to a variety of shops, boutiques, and eateries.
Downtown Lexington is also home to exciting venues such as the new Central Bank Center & Rupp Arena. There you can enjoy live sports games, as well as a number of restaurants and bars. LexLive is another new addition to Lexington’s downtown scene. There, you’ll find a sports bar, arcade, movie theater, and even a bowling alley. No matter what you’re looking for, the downtown scene has something for you.
