Keeneland, with its exciting equestrian races and events, has over the years transformed into one of the most famous attractions in Lexington. In a city that is known for farms and horseback riding, Keeneland has managed to stay on top over the years. Part of the National Register of Historic Places, visiting this amazing landmark for watching a race is a must while in Lexington.
Established in 1978, Kentucky Horse Park aims at providing visitors with knowledge regarding horses. Multiple restaurants located on-site offer guests a refreshing break. International Museum of the Horse, American Saddlebred Museum, the memorial and sculpture park gives visitors deeper insight into the history and varieties of horses. Riding on horse-drawn carriages and ponies makes the educational tour around the park an interesting one. The park is also home to the popular Man O War memorial. Screening of equestrian films, horse racing and equestrian shows are regular features at this park.
The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, located near the Kentucky River just outside Lexington, provides visitors with more than ten miles (16.09 kilometers) of hiking trails to explore. First stop by the park's Nature Center to pick up a map of the trails. Pets are not allowed.
Founded by an eminent American politician, Henry Clay, Ashland's beginnings date back to 1809, when it started out as a simple block house. By 1811, it expanded into a sprawling mansion with a surrounding garden, that occupied 600 acres (242.81 hectares) of land. The property was named after the Ash trees that surrounded the place. Following Clay's death in 1852, Ashland has housed various occupants, and has been functioning as a historic house and museum since 1950. Visitors can enjoy tours of the magnificent mansion and take in its splendor. End your visit to Ashland by enjoying a relaxed meal at Ginkgo Tree Cafe, located on site.
The 100 acre (40 hectare) expanse of Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Arboretum is divided into various areas such as the Home Fruit and Nuts Garden, Herb Garden, Woody Plant Collection and much more. The garden is open to the public for free and also frequently organizes special programs for kids, priced at a low amount.
Located within the Kentucky Horse Park, this museum opened at the same time as the park in 1978. International Museum of the Horse is spread across 45,000 square feet (4180.63 square meters), featuring exhibits displaying the connection between horse and man, making it the largest of its kind in the world. The aim of this museum is to spread awareness regarding the history of equestrian culture. The collection includes books, saddles, carriages, artifacts and various artworks on horses. Apart from a permanent collection, traveling exhibits are also featured here. Check website for further information.
Telling the story of the Bluegrass Region, The Bluegrass Heritage Museum is a fascinating stop for history lovers. Covering various eras that begins from the Native Americans to the present day, the displays are as intriguing as the area's colorful history. Get to know the adventures of Simon Kenton and Daniel Boone. See how different industries like coal, lumber, tobacco and bourbon prospered and impacted the nation's economy with this region being the base. Explore the history of the historic building which was known as the Guerrant Clinic at one point. Spread across three floors, there is also a memorabilia of telephones, quilts and military history. Not to miss how Bluegrass Music originated. Check out their gift shop for souvenirs and books.
Keeneland, with its exciting equestrian races and events, has over the years transformed into one of the most famous attractions in Lexington. In a city that is known for farms and horseback riding, Keeneland has managed to stay on top over the years. Part of the National Register of Historic Places, visiting this amazing landmark for watching a race is a must while in Lexington.
The American Saddlebred Museum is dedicated to display the local culture and history to the visitors. It has a wide array of permanent exhibits and an extensive library as well as a children's area. The museum is open throughout the year on all days and visitors can take guided tours. The museum focuses on how the American Saddlebred played a pivotal role in the nation's history. There are a number of interesting exhibitions at the museum which are changed every year. The American Saddlebred Museum also houses a gift shop which has a variety of souvenirs and other things to pick up from.
Established in 1978, Kentucky Horse Park aims at providing visitors with knowledge regarding horses. Multiple restaurants located on-site offer guests a refreshing break. International Museum of the Horse, American Saddlebred Museum, the memorial and sculpture park gives visitors deeper insight into the history and varieties of horses. Riding on horse-drawn carriages and ponies makes the educational tour around the park an interesting one. The park is also home to the popular Man O War memorial. Screening of equestrian films, horse racing and equestrian shows are regular features at this park.
The Lyric was the crowning glory of the neighborhood between the period of 1948 to 1963 and had some of the big names like Ray Charles, B.B. King and Billy Brown perform during its heydays. Built initially as a movie house, it went on to become a performance venue, hosting some of the finest acts of an era gone by. It closed in 1963 and was in disuse for nearly five decades and finally opened in 2010. Now called Lyric Theater & Cultural Arts Center, this renovated, iconic part of the city is spread across 29,000 square feet (2,694.19 square meters) and features a state-of-the-art theater, and an art gallery and museum. Comprising of two buildings which is distinct by an outdoor garden, it is the ideal place to get a glimpse into the rich African-American culture. Stop by for musical programs, films, exhibitions or educational outreaches featuring famous as well as upcoming artists.