Lexington, the second-largest city in Kentucky, is a special, progressive place. Aside from the horse farms and bourbon distilleries, it offers great bars, restaurants, and events for all ages.

Depending on your departure city, you’ll either fly into Blue Grass Airport in Lexington or Muhammad Ali Airport in Louisville, which is just an hour’s drive.

Check out this sample itinerary for your three days in Lexington.

Day One

The Manchester Hotel

There’s a range of accommodations in Lexington at different price points. However, if you’re looking to splurge a bit, The Manchester Hotel in the Distillery District is worth every penny.

The hotel opened in June, but it is already turning heads with its stunning lobby and beautiful rooms. The Southern heat may be unforgiving in the summer but the hotel is well air-conditioned. You’ll also appreciate the sandalwood scent that greets you on arrival.

Kentucky Horse Park and Keeneland

Whether you ride horses or just like to look at them, plan a trip to Kentucky Horse Park. Enjoy trail rides, the Parade of Breeds, and several equine museums. The final resting place of Man O War, the great thoroughbred racehorse, is a must-see.

If you want more horse-related activities, check out Keeneland, a race track and thoroughbred auction house. This national historic landmark is open to the public.

Thursday Night Live – Free Entertainment

If you’re downtown on a Thursday evening, head to the Fifth Third Pavilion at Tandy Park. Enjoy live music, food and drink. It’s a fun, free event to attend solo or with friends.

Thursday Night Live runs through early October, rain or shine.

Day Two

Genesis Coffee Shop

This cute, Black-owned coffee shop serves eggs, pastries, homestyle potatoes, and more. While waiting for breakfast to settle, check out the murals in downtown Lexington.

Castle & Key Distillery

Drive to Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort. Some distilleries can be elitist, but this one encourages public interaction. Learn firsthand how bourbon is distilled, and buy yourself a nice bottle from the gift shop.

Crēaux

For a taste of Louisiana in Kentucky, Crēaux serves tasty chicken and sausage gumbo, fried fish, and Cajun corn dip. There’s live music and karaoke, depending on the night.

Day Three

Be sure to make the most of your last day in Lexington! As in, sip a little something before your flight home.

You can get an Old Fashioned anywhere, but a tasting experience at Fresh Bourbon, which is proudly Black-owned, is the best way to close out your trip.

The space is gorgeous, and the experts will teach you everything they know. At the end, you’ll learn to make your own Old Fashioned, complete with an orange peel garnish. You can buy additional cocktails, too.

loc:country:united states:kentucky