34 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Lexington, KY

Lexington is a city in the state of Kentucky.

Known for horses, the city is also famous for Antebellum architecture and Civil War politicians.

During your visit to the city, you will find not only warm hospitality but also numerous historic sites and museums.

For families, the city is a wonderful place to vacation, with attractions and activities you and your kids will love.

To help you plan your itinerary for this fascinating city, you will find a list below of the fun things to do in Lexington.

Additionally, couples will find a place to get away from it all with romantic spots to spend an afternoon together.

Things to do in Lexington, KY

1. Lexington Scavenger Hunt by Let’s Roam

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $12.99

Address: Lexington, KY

• Allow 2 hours
• Book in advance

See the city of Lexington in a unique and fun way with the Lexington Scavenger Hunt by Let’s Roam.

Begin your hunt any time you want and take a walking tour of the city while hunting for clues and solving puzzles.

What’s more, the scavenger hunt has challenges, such as receiving photos and finding the spots pictured.

Visit Main Street and get a closer look at some of the 18th-century architecture on display.

In particular, you’ll see historic spots, such as McAdams and Morford Building, the Mary Todd Lincoln House, and the clock at Skuller’s Jewelry.

Additionally, you can book special scavenger hunts for date nights, holidays, and celebrations.

While on one of the special scavenger hunts, you’ll be able to do fun couples’ activities, find festive Christmas spots, and make the one you love feel appreciated.

2. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 3885 Raven Run Way, Lexington, KY 40515

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Trail map available online
• No pets allowed

Explore the 734 acres of Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Kentucky.

While at the sanctuary, you can hike along ten miles of trails that take you through meadows and woodlands.

Pass by streams, not to mention the remains of historic 19th-century sites, while getting to view wildlife.

Choose from 7 trails that will offer distinct areas.

What’s more, you can find points of interest that tell the story of the area.

Stop at Evans Mill and see a historic grist mill built in 1833, or visit Moore Grave, where Archibald Moore was buried in 1871, next to his log cabin.

At Prather Homestead, you can see a smokehouse and cemetery, as well as a historic home.

During your time at the sanctuary, you will also see a multitude of bird species and animals, like turtles and snakes.

Additionally, the sanctuary offers events throughout the year, such as Bluegrass History and Nature Crafts.

3. Mary Todd Lincoln House

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Children: $6.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 578 W Main Street, Lexington, KY 40507

• Open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours
• Docents available

Visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House and discover one of the most unique things to do in Lexington.

While there, you will get to learn about the wife of Abraham Lincoln as you tour her family home.

Discover how impressive the first lady was with your self-guided tour.

In addition to seeing the home, you will also learn the history of Mary Todd Lincoln’s life, what her family was like, and stories about the enslaved people who lived on the property.

Moreover, you will learn about her years in the White House and her influence on politics.

Also, learn the sad story of how she was confined to an asylum and her travels through Europe in the years preceding her death.

In regard to the home, you will see rooms much the way they were when Mary lived there.

Visit the Family Parlor and see several of the Todd family’s artifacts before touring the Dining Room.

You can also see the Pantry, where the people enslaved by the Todd family performed daily tasks.

In the Back Parlor, you’ll be able to see where Henry Clay visited.

See the bedroom of Mary’s parents, view the Children’s Room, and peruse heirlooms, such as porcelain perfume jars and the desk used by the Todd family.

4. University of Kentucky Art Museum

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 405 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40508

• Open Tuesday through Saturday
• Parking on campus

Are you looking for Lexington attractions that are free?

Tour the University of Kentucky Art Museum, where you will be able to peruse art from a variety of historical periods and cultures.

The permanent exhibit at the museum holds an impressive 5,000 objects, allowing you to view drawings, paintings, photographs, and decorative arts, as well as sculptures and prints.

View portraits by French artists, such as Emile Bernard, see Agostino Carracci’s Madonna and Child with St. John or view the American Self-Portrait by William Welsh.

Additionally, you can see both modern sculptures and busts from the 19th century.

Other fascinating works you can see at the museum include photographs from around the world that tell the stories of humanity and drawings by Pablo Picasso as well as Joan Miro.

Moreover, the museum hosts events throughout the year, so check the calendar for guest lecturers.

If you’d like a guided tour of the museum, be sure to schedule two weeks ahead of your visit.

5. Lexington Cemetery

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 833 W Main Street, Lexington, KY 40508

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

Lexington Cemetery holds the remains of many notable local residents, not to mention Americans who helped shape the country.

Additionally, the cemetery is beautiful, with crab apple trees, dogwoods, and ornamental magnolias throughout the grounds.

In fact, an American Basswood is on the grounds that may be the largest in the world.

What’s more, 16,000 tulips can be found, creating a magical experience during the Spring.

While at the cemetery, you can visit the graves of famous Kentuckians, such as Jim Varney and Henry Clay.

Also within the cemetery is a confederate soldier monument, the Ladies Confederate Memorial, and a statue of Henry Clay.

The 170-acre property is the resting place for the victims of the cholera epidemic in 1833.

In particular, you’ll want to visit the gravesite of “King Solomon,” the brave and compassionate man who earned the title ”hero of 1833 cholera epidemic.”

6. Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $25.00, Students: $15.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 120 Sycamore Road, Lexington, KY 40502

• Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Sunday, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
• Book group and special tours in advance
• Allow 1 hour for guided tour

If you’re looking for historical places to visit in Lexington, make a trip to Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate.

Henry Clay was an American statesman, attorney, and farmer who helped pass the Compromise of 1850 to uphold the Union, which led to the Civil War.

Presently, you can tour the estate that was Clay’s home and has been preserved.

On your tour of the mansion, you will be able to view what it looked like during Clay’s life and how his granddaughter redesigned the interior in the 1880s.

Moreover, you will learn about the life of Henry Clay, the architecture of the home, and how slavery played a key role in his career and everyday life.

Additionally, you will learn about his descendants as you peruse artifacts and furnishings.

Also available are self-guided outdoor tours, where you will be able to stroll through the beauty of the grounds, visiting outbuildings, and exploring historic walking paths.

If you’d like a more specialized tour of the estate, Traces: Slavery at Ashland is a tour that will give you more in-depth knowledge about the enslaved people of Ashland.

What’s more, you’ll visit where they worked and lived as you hear their personal stories.

If you planning to extend your trip in Kentucky to visit more places and attractions, enjoy the most fun things to do in Louisville, KY with family and friends!

7. Fort Boonesborough State Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $8.00, Children: $6.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 4375 Boonesboro Road, Richmond, KY 40475

• Open daily, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours for fort tour
• Pet-friendly

Would you like to learn about the history of Kentucky near Lexington?

Make the short 35-minute drive to Fort Boonesborough State Park, and you will be immersed in 18th-century Kentucky life.

 While at the park, you can tour the fort site where Daniel Boone was in 1775, viewing a reconstructed working fort.

The fort includes cabins, furnishings, and blockhouses, in addition to craft demonstrations that will show you a living and breathing history.

Afterward, enjoy some of the outdoor amenities available at the park.

Go fishing along the Kentucky River and catch bluegill, catfish, or bass before exploring the hiking trails.

Among the paths you can choose are The Halley Home Site Trail and The Pioneer Forage Trail.

What’s more, the park offers family-friendly activities, such as miniature golf, boating, and camping.

Visit The Kentucky River Museum and learn about the settlers who lived by the river, working on the dams and locks.

Lastly, be sure to stop at the gift shop, where you will find items that were made on the grounds of the Fort.

Purchase a gift or souvenir, such as hand-dipped candles, pottery, and soap.

8. Champs Entertainment Complex

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity

Address: 297 Ruccio Way, Lexington, KY 40503

• Open Thursday through Tuesday
• All-you-can-play package available for $24.99

If you are looking for family-friendly entertaining activities to do in Lexington, head to Champs Entertainment Complex.

While at the 50,000-square-foot complex, you will find a plethora of activities for both you and your kids.

Go roller skating, challenge your kids in the arcade, or compete in a game of laser tag.

Additionally, there is a miniature golf course that includes a glow-in-the-dark feature.

Afterward, stop by the restaurant for lunch or dinner or hang out in the VIP room to unwind.

9. International Museum of the Horse

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $16.00, Senior: $14.00, Military & Children: $8.00

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours
• Located in Kentucky Horse Park

Kentucky is known for horses, so it is fitting that the largest museum in the world dedicated to horses should be in Lexington.

While at the International Museum of the Horse, you will learn the history of the animal, how they’ve impacted humanity and civilization, and the roles horses have played, from racing to working.

Learn about the history of horses in areas such as China, the UK, and the Middle East.

Moreover, you can peruse artifacts from the museum’s collection of over 16,000 items.

Included in the collection are photographs, folk art, and trophies, as well as horse-drawn vehicles and a famous outdoor sculpture.

Additionally, you can tour exhibits, such as Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf, The Chronicle of African Americans in the Horse Industry, and the Al-Marah Arabian Horse Galleries.

10. American Saddlebred Museum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $16.00, Seniors: $14.00, Military & Children: $8.00

Address: 4083 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours
• Located in Kentucky Horse Park

Only steps away from the International Museum of Horse, you will find the American Saddlebred Museum.

While at the American Saddlebred Museum, you will gain a new perspective on the horse.

Not only will you learn about its history, but also see how the horse evolved throughout time, eventually becoming the versatile and athletic animal we know today.

You and your kids will both enjoy your time at the museum with its diverse exhibits.

In addition to interactive displays, you will find a virtual reality exhibit, movie, and children’s area.

Tour the largest collection of saddlebred artifacts in the world that includes tack, trophies, and artwork.

Before leaving, be sure to visit the resting place of Supreme Sultan, an American Saddlebred stallion who passed away in 1983.

11. Kentucky Horse Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $16.00, Seniors: $14.00, Military & Children: $8.00

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Allow 35 minutes for horse ride
• Book rides in advance

While visiting the museums on the property, you will want to visit Kentucky Horse Park itself.

The park offers horseback rides for adults and pony rides for children that are ages 2 through 10.

During your ride, you will have a knowledgeable guide taking you along a trail that is perfect for first-time riders.

What’s more, the park has live equine presentations, with events including the Parade of Breeds, the Hall of Champions Show, Big Barn Stall-Side Chat, and a Derby Winner Nightcap.

Would you like to go camping in Lexington?

Kentucky Horse Park offers a beautiful and lush campground with amenities like electric and water hookups and paved back-ins for RVs.

Additionally, each campsite has a fire ring and a picnic table.

12. Horse Farm Tours

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $42.00, Seniors: $41.00, Children $32.00

Address: 3429 Montavesta Road, Lexington, KY 40502

• Book in advance
• Allow 3 hours

Would you like to see the horses of Kentucky up close while in Lexington?

Horse Farm Tours provide a memorable experience, taking you to some of the world’s best Thoroughbred horse farms.

What’s more, you’ll see the world-famous Keeneland Race Course, as well as 2 farms and a tour of a modern Kentucky horse barn.

Take a stroll through the ivy-covered building of Keeneland before heading to farms, where you can get to know the horses personally.

If you have the opportunity to take the tour in the Spring, you will have the added pleasure of seeing mares with their adorable foals.

Moreover, you will get to see several famous sites where movies were filmed. 

13. Shillito Park

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 300 W Reynolds Road, Lexington, KY 40503

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Pet-friendly

If you are searching for fun things to do in Lexington, head to Shillito Park for some fresh air and sunshine.

The park offers numerous activities for both adults and children.

Spend the afternoon with your kids at the outdoor playground that offers climbing ropes, toys, slides, and bridges.

Afterward, take a dip in the pool or play a game of tennis or volleyball with your friends or family.

Additionally, the park offers basketball courts and walking trails.

Before heading off to explore the trails, enjoy a picnic under a shady tree or try a game of disc golf.

14. Festival of the Bluegrass

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: $100.00

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511

• Book in advance
• Takes place the 1st full weekend of June

If you happen to be in Lexington during the first weekend of June, you won’t want to miss the oldest Kentucky bluegrass festival, Festival of the Bluegrass.

Since 1974, Festival of the Bluegrass has been hosting visitors and musicians that are searching for some of the best music in Kentucky.

Presently, the festival is a favorite for locals and visitors alike who travel to Lexington just for the event.

With past performances by world-renowned musicians like Ricky Scaggs and Alison Krause, you’re sure to find thrilling sounds during your visit.

While at the festival, you will be thrilled with 3 stages of music and a campground.

15. Waveland State Historic House

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Seniors & Military: $12.00, Children: $6.00

Address: 225 Waveland Museum Lane, Lexington, KY 40514

• Open Wednesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
• Reservation required for Tuesday Tea

Enjoy one of the unique things to do in Lexington with a trip to Waveland Historic House.

The historic site offers not only educational attractions but also outdoor activities and special events.

Tour the Antebellum house and its 3 outbuildings, that include a smokehouse, slave quarters, and an icehouse.

The guided tour will also help you gain a new perspective on the daily lives of the enslaved people who lived at the estate, as well as the family.

Afterward, stroll through the grounds and discover trails that lead across bridges and by a pond.

Moreover, you’ll find 2 flower and herb gardens and a playground for your kids to run off some energy.

Visit the site on Tuesday, and you can take part in teatime and a vintage baseball game.

Additionally, you can have a family picnic on the lawn that provides picnic tables and grills.

16. Catch a Game or See a Concert at Rupp Arena

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on event

Address: 430 W Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507

• Book in advance
• No outside food or beverage

Rupp Arena is a staple of Lexington, with concerts and events held there throughout the year, as well as being the home of the University of Kentucky’s Wildcats basketball team.

If you are in town during the season, head to the arena and grab a snack from the concessions before cheering on the home team.

For those who don’t watch basketball or miss the season, the arena still has plenty to offer.

Are you looking for some of the best music in Lexington?

The arena fills up for the concerts hosted by the arena, with world-renowned performers taking the stage.

You’ll be sure to find some of your favorite artists performing, with acts like Five Finger Death Punch, Brantley Gilbert, and Casting Crowns.

17. Take the Lexington Mural Challenge

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Lexington, KY 

• Download map online
• Prize awarded after visiting 6 murals

Are you wondering what cool and free activities you can find in Lexington?

Take the Lexington Mural Challenge, and you will have a fantastic time exploring the city for free.

Download the free map of over 40 murals and get started on seeing some amazing street art.

While touring the art, you’ll find works that range from anonymous artists to well-known creators.

In addition to getting to see the fabulous murals of Lexington, you will also have a chance to win a prize.

Do a check-in on the map’s GPS each time you find a mural, and after visiting 6 you will be able to drop by the Lexington Visitor Center for a free poster.

18. Aviation Museum of Kentucky

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors & Military: $8.00, Children: $6.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 4029 Airport Road, Lexington, KY 40510

• Open Tuesday through Sunday
• Allow 1 hour

The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is committed to increasing public enthusiasm and understanding of the aviation industry.

Because of this, the museum is an immersive place to visit, where you will be able to tour fascinating exhibits.

Learn about the Women in Aviation and the Wright brothers before viewing some of the aircraft on display.

See aircraft that include a Pulsar, Bell Helicopter, and F-4S, as well as an A4 Skyhawk and F-14 Tomcat.

You can also get an up-close look at an airplane engine, the Wright Flyer, and a Sailplane.

19. Malibu Jack’s Lexington

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on activity

Address: 2520 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503

• Open daily
• Weekday discounts available

Are you looking for fun things to do in Lexington?

If so, head to Malibu Jack’s Lexington, where you will find a multitude of activities and games.

Challenge your friends to a go-kart race before heading over to play in the laser tag arena.

What’s more, you can play some miniature golf that is tropical-themed or take your kids to Bounce Beach.

Moreover, find thrills and excitement on the Twist N Shout Coaster, the 4D-motion Dark Ride, and the Spin Zone.

Afterward, try your hand at the Wave Rider or play a virtual reality game.

Other highlights of the entertainment complex are the shooting gallery, where you can shoot your way through an Old West town, as well as the arcade, bowling, and Basketball Shootout.

Once you’re ready to end your fun-filled day, head to Jack’s Sandbar & Grill for wings, a burger, or other casual fares.

Moreover, you can grab a drink with friends, sampling a cocktail, or sipping a cold beer.

20. Jacobson Park

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 4001 Athens Boonesboro Road, Lexington, KY 40509

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Pet-friendly

Jacobson Park is a great place to go for some outdoor activity while in Lexington.

In addition to a playground for the kids, you’ll find a dog park for your four-legged friend.

The 216-acre park also offers fishing at the reservoir, as well as pedal boats and kayaks that will get you out on the water.

Play a game of basketball or volleyball with friends or cool off with your kids in the Sprayground.

Afterward, have a picnic at one of the shelters or relax under one of the many shade trees.

21. Comedy Off Broadway

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Varies depending on show

Address: 161 Lexington Green Cir Unit C4, Lexington, KY 40503

• Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Booking in advance recommended
• Must be 18 or older

Wondering where to go for a fun night out in Lexington?

Head to Comedy Off Broadway and enjoy an adults-only night of laughs and entertainment.

Grab a drink and sit back as you listen to world-class acts perform.

Laugh your cares away as you are entertained by comedians such as Donnie Baker & The Pork Pistols, Pauly Shore, and Adam Ray.

Additionally, the club has an open mic night, where you can try out your own comedy skills or watch others get up on stage.

Other events at the club include holiday specials with multiple acts.

22. Hopemont

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $15.00, Students: $8.00, Children: $6.00

Address: 201 N Mill Street, Lexington, KY 40507

• Guided tour
• Allow 45 minutes

Are you searching for educational activities while in Lexington?

Take a tour of Hopemont, also known as the Hunt-Morgan House, and you will learn some of Lexington’s history.

During your visit to Hopemont, you will not only see the 19th-century residence of John Wesley Hunt but also be able to tour the Alexander T Hunt Civil War Museum, which is housed on the second floor.

Get a detailed look at the architecture of the home while walking through the premises that has been meticulously restored.

Immerse yourself in what it was like to have been the first millionaire west of the Alleghenies as you walk past a Palladian window, under arches, and stand at round-arched windows on the third floor.

Moreover, you will learn about how slavery shaped Lexington, the life history of John Wesley Hunt, and see numerous Civil War artifacts.

Before leaving, be sure to stop by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir. 

23. Take a Tour with Big Blue Pedaler

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $29.00

Address: Lexington, KY

• Book in advance
• Allow 2 hours and 15 minutes

If you are looking for best places to visit in Lexington with friends, you will love a tour with Big Blue Pedaler.

The 14-passenger party bike will take you through the streets of Lexington and will show you some of the city’s best hot spots.

Not only stop at breweries to sample craft beers but also visit historical sites and coffee shops.

Additionally, you can find special activities on top of the regular public tour.

Among the offerings are Mural Monday, Thirsty Thursday, and Cheers to the Weekend.

You and your friends will have a blast making your way through downtown on the Big Blue Pedaler, which offers LED party lights, comfortable seats, and a great sound system.

What’s more, you will be able to meet locals, try some authentic Southern cuisine, and learn about the city.

24. Talon Winery & Vineyards

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $5.00

Address: 7086 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, KY 40515

• Open daily
• No reservation required for tastings

Would you like to find a romantic date idea in Lexington?

Your date will love a trip to Talon Winery, where you can enjoy a tasting, immerse yourself in the beautiful atmosphere of the vineyards, and attend special events.

For the perfect date, bring a picnic and relax as you sip wine and listen to live music.

Additionally, you can stroll the pastoral property before shopping for the perfect wine to share later.

25. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $14.00, Seniors, Military & First Responders: $10.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330

• Open daily
• 50 minutes from Lexington

If you are looking for interesting places to see near Lexington, visit Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.

Explore 3,000 acres that will allow you to step into the world of Kentucky Shakers.

The village is the 3rd largest community of Shakers in the country that existed between 1805 and 1910.

Presently, you will find a living history at the village, where farmers, naturalists, and historians have come together to carry on the legacy of the Shaker community.

Visit the Historic Centre, where you will learn about the Shakers of Pleasant Hill.

Get a close-up look at their architecture and craftsmanship, as well as gain knowledge about their spirituality.

You will be able to see 34 of the original 260 structures on the property, in addition to viewing artifacts and taking part in special events.

Afterward, head to The Farm, which was the heart of the Shaker community.

While at The Farm, you will be able to see the same practices employed to tend the garden, orchard, livestock, and apiary, as the Shaker community did so long ago.

Lastly, make your way to The Preserve.

During your time at The Preserve, you will learn about how the Shakers used natural resources, such as limestone.

Additionally, you can walk through woodlands and wide-open spots.

Also available are special adventures.

Explore the 36-mile trail system that includes a bird observation blind and Shaker mill sites.

Search for wildflowers, go on a geology hike, or learn about native birds and foraging techniques before stopping at The Trustee’s Table restaurant.

While at the restaurant, you will be able to sample authentic Kentucky dishes made from ingredients that came from the community’s garden.

Are you searching for a great place to stay in Lexington?

The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill offers a charming Inn that provides guest rooms and suites, as well as private cottages.

26. The Living Arts & Science Center

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 362 N Martin Luther King Blvd, Lexington, KY 40508

• Open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

Are you looking for free things to do in Lexington with kids?

If so, then The Living Arts & Science Center is a perfect choice.

Both you and your kids will be thrilled with galleries that are dedicated to school artwork, contemporary pieces, and the original family that lived on the property.

Learn about George Kinkead, the man who owned the original home.

During your tour of the Kinkead Gallery, you will gain knowledge about how the Lexington lawyer fought for civil rights and bequeathed his home to previously enslaved people.

Additionally, you can meet animal ambassadors or explore the Marksbury Discovery Room.

While at the discovery room, you and your children can explore science with hands-on exhibits.

Learn about subjects such as native Kentucky plants and animals, water conservation, and how life is connected around the world.

Afterward, head to the Farish Planetarium and observe the night sky or stop by Moosnick Makers Space for family activities.

Lastly, browse the gift shop and purchase a book or souvenir.

27. Lexington Farmers’ Market

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 399 S Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508

• Check market’s website for specific days and locations
• Hours change depending on season

Throughout the week, Lexington Farmers’ Market is available at a variety of locations, allowing you to easily visit the local favorite.

The South is a fantastic place to find fresh produce, and Lexington is no exception.

Grab a cup of coffee and stroll through the market, discovering unique items like elderberry syrup, beer cheese, and kettle corn.

Also on hand is a beautiful array of classic produce, such as tomatoes, lettuce, herbs, and fruit.

Pick up some spices for your home cooking or buy a colorful bouquet of flowers for your significant other before perusing artisan crafts.

28. Bites of the Bluegrass

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: $75.00

Address: Lexington, KY

• Book in advance
• Allow 3 hours
• Drink pairing at additional cost

Wondering where the best food in Lexington might be?

Take a food tour with Bites of Bluegrass, and you are sure to find out.

While you walk along the streets of downtown Lexington, you will not only be able to try delicious cuisine but also learn some of the most fascinating histories of the city.

Your guide will take you to 5 of the city’s local restaurants, where you can sample mouthwatering dishes.

Try a bacon macaroni beignet, a buzz button, or fresh-baked bread, as well as Pittsburg-style hangar steak.

What’s more, your food will come with a drink pairing suggestion, and if you want vegetarian options or have other dietary restrictions, the tour company is more than happy to oblige.

In between visits to restaurants, you’ll hear entertaining stories about some of Lexington’s most unusual residents.

Additionally, you’ll want to bring your camera as you will pass by significant landmarks.

See Skuller’s Clock, Phoenix Park, and The Square during your tasty tour.

29. Kentucky Theatre

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $9.50

Address: 214 E Main Street, Lexington, KY 40507

• Open daily
• Parking available on street or Phoenix Garage

The Kentucky Theatre is a historic movie house that has been in operation for one century.

The landmark building is a gem of the city and was restored in 1992 after a fire in 1987.

Presently, the theatre offers films that are box office hits but focuses on exceptional movies that are foreign, artistic, and independent.

If you are in Lexington during the summer, the theatre is a great place to see classic films.

During its Summer Classic series, you’ll find double features or classic accompanying cartoons.

Additionally, you’ll discover performances by organists that range from classical to modern pieces and include a sing-along to entertain the crowd before the film.

Are you going to be proposing, celebrating a birthday, or planning another type of surprise in Lexington?

Rent the Kentucky Theatre’s marquee, and you can post your own personalized message for them to see.

30. The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 500 Alumni Drive, Lexington, KY 40503

• Open daily, 7:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Dogs allowed on Walk Across Kentucky pathway
• Located at the University of Kentucky

Enjoy an afternoon of sunshine in The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.

While there, you will find numerous gardens, providing you with a tranquil and magical experience.

Visit the 4-acre Home Demonstration Garden and get ideas for your own garden or landscaping.

Peruse exhibits that illustrate specific landscaping ideas and themes, as well as provide information on what plants should be used together.

You’ll find plants that are low-maintenance and diverse, not to mention create a beautiful display.

Head to the Fragrance Garden and let your senses be overtaken by climbing roses.

Explore winding paths that will take you through sweet-smelling fruit trees and aromatic lavender.

Afterward, take a stroll through the Rose Garden.

Take a look at 100 types of roses that drape pergolas, cobblestone walkways, and a stone wall.

In addition to the roses, you’ll also find an art installation that commemorates Flight 5191, with 49 steel birds taking flight.

During your time at the gardens, you’ll also want to visit the Dorothea Smith Oatts Visitor Center Plantings.

While there, you will see an explosion of color, with daffodils, violas, and pansies accented by vegetables like kale and lettuce.

Moreover, vibrant zinnias, daylilies, and marigolds can be found throughout the garden.

Lastly, take a look at the Perennial Teaching Garden.

The garden contains 50 species of native perennial plants, including unique finds like Agastache and allium.

If you would like to see the ecosystems of Kentucky laid out, you can also take the 2-mile Walk Across Kentucky path.

During your time on the path, you will see plants from the 7 regions of the state, ranging from the Appalachian Plateau to the Shawnee Hills.

Before leaving, take the opportunity to have a picnic at one of the provided areas, enjoying an alfresco meal among the beautiful surroundings.

31. The Loudoun House

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 209 Castlewood Drive, Lexington, KY 40505

• Open Wednesday through Saturday, noon – 5:00 pm
• Allow 1 hour

Are you curious about the architecture of Lexington?

Take a guided or self-guided tour of The Loudoun House, where you will see one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the state of Kentucky.

Home to the Lexington Art League, the building was created for the cousin of Francis Scott Key.

Get an up-close look at the home’s towers, vaults, and diamond-paned windows, as well as parapet walls and turrets.

During your tour of the structure, you will be immersed in a romantic atmosphere with enchanting surroundings.

The building is also home to an art gallery, allowing you to view works while also seeing the detailed architecture.

Additionally, you’ll find events at The Loudoun House, such as local art shows and a gift shop.

32. Go Ziplining with Boone Creek Outdoors

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: $99.00

Address: 8291 Old Richmond Road, Lexington, KY 40515

• Book in advance
• Allow 2 – 3 hours
• Waiver required

Spend an adventurous day ziplining over the canopy of Boone Creek Gorge with Boone Creek Outdoors.

Feel the thrill of speeding over treetops, with 6 ziplines, a spiral, rappel, and 3 sky bridges along the way.

From 200 feet in the air, you will be able to see the trees and gorge in a whole new way as you fly overhead at 40 miles per hour.

What’s more, the knowledgeable guides will share a wealth of information about the ecosystem of Boone Creek and the palisades region.

Additionally, all the equipment you need for your adventure will be provided, and your guides will ensure you are safe and comfortable before your zipline tour.

If you’d like to try some other adventures offered by Boone Creek Outdoors, there are many to choose from.

For those who are unsure if ziplining is for them, the Intro canopy tour is recommended.

Also, you can try a challenge course, go on a guided hiking tour, or book a combo tour that will get you more bang for your buck.

33. Picnic with Goats

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $49.00

Address: Athens Boonesboro Road, Lexington, KY

• Book in advance
• Allow 90 minutes

For an unusual family outing or date idea, try a Picnic with Goats.

Enjoy a day in Lexington farm country while having a picnic in a green pastoral area.

What’s more, this won’t just be any picnic.

Provided will be a picnic table, comfortable Adirondack chairs, a hammock, and of course, goats.

For 90 minutes, you will be able to dine on food provided by some of Lexington’s finest restaurants, as well as pet baby goats, play on the games court, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Before your arrival, your picnic will be arranged beneath the canopy of shade trees, and friendly goats will be waiting to greet you.

If you are celebrating a special occasion, you can ask for customized decorations, food, or drinks.

Choose a breakfast, brunch, lunch, or sunset dinner, where you will be able to sample mouthwatering dishes that include quiche, sandwiches, fresh fruit, and pasta, as well as barbecue and complimentary snacks.

34. McConnell Springs

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 416 Rebmann Lane, Lexington, KY 40504

• Open daily
• No alcohol allowed

Spend the day enjoying the natural beauty of Kentucky at McConnell Springs.

During your exploration of the 26-acre area, you will find a plethora of beautiful spots.

3 natural springs call the area home.

Visit the Blue Hole and enjoy natural prismatic lights in the water or stop by The Boils, where the water appears to be boiling from underground water rushing to the surface.

At The Final Sink, you’ll find cave-like formations, as well as dense trees.

You can also stop by the historic farm site or visit the Bur Oak, a 250-year-old tree that is impressive to behold.