Arts and Culture: Lexington, KY Visitor Information

Athens of the West

Lexington’s vibrant, distinct culture is centuries in the making. At the turn of the 19th century, our prosperous new town earned a reputation as the “Athens of the West,” a mecca for intellectuals, progressive thinkers and lawmakers. As academic pursuits began to mix with the agrarian community, a unique culture emerged—one of passion, craftsmanship, creativity, pride and a deep sense of place. From there, Lexington has become the stomping ground for incredible writers, musicians, artists and makers of the well-crafted.

Art Galleries

Live Music Venues

Fairs & Festivals

Featured Attractions

They’re all the rage. See for yourself. Explore Creative Culture.

Featured Attraction

21c Museum Hotel

167 West Main Street, Lexington, KY, 40507

(859) 899-6800

More than a hotel, 21c Lexington welcomes both visitors and locals to experience art, participate in...

Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center

300 East Third Street, Lexington, KY, 40508

(859) 280-2201

Originally opened in 1948, the Lyric Theatre was a thriving cultural centerpiece for Lexington's...

Featured Attraction

The Burl

375 Thompson Road, Lexington, KY, 40508

Hosting local and national talent of all genres, The Burl is Lexington’s newest entertainment...

Thoroughbred Park

100 Midland Avenue, Lexington, KY, 40507

(800) 845-3959

This 2.5 acre park dedicated to the Thoroughbred industry contains seven life-size and lifelike...

See All Things Art

“The horse capital of the world will dazzle you with historic architecture, a vibrant art scene, and, yes, plenty of bourbon.”

- Architectural Digest

Lexington Mural Challenge

We like to paint the town here in Lexington. With more than 45 murals scattered around the city,...

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University City

Home to the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University, Lexington is a college town through and through…but it’s much more than that. Lexington was named one of six "University Cities"—a new species of city with highly educated populations, innovative economies with high rates of entrepreneurship, and outsized arts and culture sectors. The result is no less than magical.