So we’ve lived in Lexington for almost 3 years and today I wanted to share my top 10 things to do, see, and eat. Lexington has a special place in our hearts and there are so many awesome places I want to share.
Keeneland
Going to a race at Keeneland is one of our absolute favorite things here. Come April or October you’ll find us out at the track, eating all the bread pudding and betting on races! (See what I’ve worn before here, here, and here) If it’s not racing season you can still explore the grounds but the atmosphere is so different – and amazing – when it’s racemeet. It’s a MUST if you’re in town in October or April. Check out what to wear in the spring HERE and fall HERE!
Magee’s
Magee’s has our favorite donuts, hands down! They also have amazing breakfast sandwiches that you can customize to perfection.
UK Football or Basketball game
Ok living in a college town – the University of Kentucky is here – is really fun! The Wildcats are basically a religion here and you can FEEL when there’s a home game. We’ve been to both football and basketball games and they are super fun – great atmosphere, dedicated fans, and great teams!
Explore Downtown
Downtown Lexington is so fun and easy to explore. It’s super walkable and packed with amazing restaurants. Carson’s is probably our favorite date night spot – their fried chicken is the bomb. I also love hitting the Farmer’s Market Saturday mornings and walking around it. Other great spots are Sunrise Bakery, Corto Lima (get the loaded fries!), and Bourbon on Rye.
Carson’s
I made this a whole separate item because Carson’s is hands-down our favorite restaurant of all time. You read that right – anywhere! It’s the perfect date night spot because it’s fun but not too formal. We have tried so many things on their menu and always love it. We take everyone who visits here because we love it that much – and we will seriously miss it when we aren’t here.
The Landscape and Farms
The rolling green of Lexington is so gorgeous in every season. Just driving around is fun – take a drive out to Windy Corner if you really want to see Central Kentucky at it’s finest. We love how the city isn’t overdeveloped and you can be in rolling hills in 10 minutes, max (from anywhere basically).
Malone’s
Another favorite food spot is Malone’s. Great atmosphere (we love dark wood and coziness!) and great food. The Lexingtonian Salad is another all-time favorite. I could have it for lunch and dinner daily and be happy.
The People
There is truly something about Southern culture. We were shocked when we moved here about how genuinely nice everyone was – from every store clerk to every waiter. It truly is a cultural thing here and Lexington is so welcoming. We felt at home so quickly despite knowing no one! It was a really easy place to get to know because of how friendly everyone is.
Distillery District
The Distillery District has our favorite ice cream, favorite pizza, and just an all-around fun area. You’ve been warned that parking is a nightmare so be prepared for that. But if you want an area you can spend an afternoon or evening in, this is it. You can hit a few distilleries, bars, and restaurants to have a great time.
The Size
We grew up in a large metro area (Minneapolis/St Paul), and haven’t ever lived in a smaller city. Let me tell you that living in a city this size is amazing. Everything is close, stores aren’t overrun, and it’s just easier to navigate. Plus you really feel a sense of community in a city like this – you can tell when UK Basketball has a game or when Keeneland is in season. It’s honestly something we will really miss being back in Minneapolis.
We are so so grateful to have had such an amazing time in Kentucky and it has a special place in our hearts forever. We’ve made great memories here, had life-changing moments (aka having a baby – at UK!), and owned our first house.
So if you’re considering a trip to Lexington – do it. We love it here and hope you will too!
