A Weekend in Lexington, KY

A beautiful drive from Nashville through the Kentucky Bourbon trail leads you to the green, white-fence-lined hills of Lexington, KY. This gorgeous city is only four hours away and makes for a perfect weekend getaway from Nashville.

Darby Dan Horse Farm

The two obvious musts of Lexington culture that one must experience: bourbon and horse racing. Prior to my traveling to Lexington, I must admit my experience with burbon was (is) plentiful, but racing was limited to a few years of drunken stupor via the Steeplechase infield, and likely (read: actually) never even seeing a horse. Now, thanks to a visit to Keeneland, I must admit I've officially been seduced by the world of live Thoroughbred racing. The culture, history, beauty of the sport is enamoring -- from the excitement of betting, to the clothing (+ subsequent people watching), food, and of course the drinks this world offers -- there is so much to entertain. You can catch the live racing for three weeks in April and three weeks in October, or if you want to partake in a tour, they are open anytime throughout the year.

Race day at Keeneland, image courtesy of America's Best Racing

What to check out while you're there:


Stay:

Lexington doesn't have a ton of highly-rated, unique hotels. Take a look at airbnb.com -- there are a ton of listings that allow you to experience life in one of the city's stunning historic homes. Go for a a Superhost listing, or, one with 5* to ensure you're getting the best of the best.

Eat:

National Provisions
Billed as a "brasserie, boulangerie, and beer hall", this French restaurant of all trades is housed in a stunning restored warehouse. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

710 National Ave, Lexington, KY 40502

North Line Coffee & Donuts
I. LOVE. DONUTS. And primarily have to take care of feeding this obsession whilst out of town. North Line's are nothing short of exceptional --  so definitely pick up a dozen or two (and bring some back for me) while you're here.

575 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40508

The Merrick Inn
This charming restaurant was built before the Civil War, and once served as the manor house for one of Lexington's finest horse farms. History and unique dining environment aside, Merrick Inn has quite possibly the best fried chicken I've EVER had. And, a fabulous Old Fashioned to boot.

1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY 40502

The main house at Darby Dan Horse Farm

Do:

Partake in the Bourbon Trail.

Two of my favorite bourbouns hail from this area -- Four Roses and Bulliet. Choose to navigate amongst the distilleries yourself, or, opt to check out a tour. All info is available on kybourbontrail.com.

Tour a Horse Farm.

Perhaps my favorite part of my Lexington weekend getaway was touring Darby Dan Farm. It allowed me to brush up on racing history,  check out over-the-top land, house, and barns, and get up close and personal with Kentucky Derby winners. Several farms allow you to make an appointment to tour - or you can hop on a group guided tour. Check out all the info on www.visitlex.com/idea-guide/horse-farm-tours/.

Tour Keeneland / Check out a Live Race

Another favorite part of our weekend in Lexington was partaking in the spectacle of racing at Keeneland --an absolute blast, and a must see for any visitor to Lexington. A tradition steeped in American History, Keeneland held its first thoroughbred race  in 1936, and continues the tradition today. Through the years its accomplished sales graduates include 78 Breeders’ Cup World Championship winners, 19 Kentucky Derby winners, 21 Preakness winners, 18 Belmont winners, 11 recipients of the Eclipse Award as Horse of the Year and five Epsom Derby winners. Slightly impressive. Brush up on your betting skills (a must) and bow-tie 101 and prepare for an unforgettable weekend. www.keeneland.com

Is my bowtie game on point?