Lexington KY is known for its equestrian and thoroughbred racing culture. Craft beer is a big part of the city’s culture, with a wide range of IPAs and stouts.

During the civil rights movement, Lexingtonians staged sit-ins at local lunch counters to protest segregation. Some of these historical sites still exist.

A Vibrant Culinary Scene

Keeneland’s September Yearling Sale is a world-famous event that brings visitors to Kentucky hungry. The city has plenty of culinary adventures for them to satisfy their hunger.

Home cooking in its purest form is offered at Ramsey’s Diner, a Lexington landmark. The diner specializes in local foods prepared simply, and nightly specials are a regular feature.

Dudley’s On Short is a great place to go for upscale dining. This old-school restaurant serves dinner every evening, lunch every Friday, and brunch on weekends.

Local chefs are also bringing new flavors to the city. Ouita Mich, who is a celebrated chef in the city and has created eight different restaurant concepts, is one of the most well-known. Holly Hill Inn, a farm-to table destination in a bucolic environment, is one of the most celebrated restaurants.

More recently, a handful of independent restaurants are making the most of Kentucky’s bounty. A few examples include Coles 735 Main, which opened in a 1938 building. Its upscale yet cozy ambiance and chef-driven recipes make this a must-visit restaurant in Lexington.

Music and Performing Arts Scene Vibrant

At times the Lexington music scene has faced setbacks. Big venues would close and bands move away, but now things are looking positive again.

Lexington is home to many performing arts venues where you can enjoy live music or other events. The Railbird Music Festival is held at Keeneland Racetrack, while the Manchester Music Hall was repurposed from a 200-year-old bourbon storage warehouse. Rupp Arena is home to concerts, motorsports events, and UK men’s Basketball games.

LexArts, a local non-profit organization, supports art experiences in the community. It runs ArtsPlace, a downtown art center which has rooms for rehearsals and performances as well as artist studios and galleries. Through its Fund for the Arts, it also funds many local arts groups. Its Corridors Commission installs landscaped artwork on city streets including Man O’ War and Newtown Pike as well as at the intersection of Oliver Lewis Way and Main Street.

A Family-Friendly City

Lexington KY offers plenty of opportunities for families to bond and create cherished memories. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, educational experience, or historical tour, there are plenty of ways to keep the whole family happy and engaged!

The Legacy Trail is a paved pathway that’s perfect for walking, cycling, and jogging. Along the way, you’ll find public art installations and beautiful scenery to help you connect with nature.

If you’re looking for a bit of history, take the Abraham Lincoln Tour and explore the Mary Todd Lincoln House. During this walking tour, you’ll discover childhood locations and top-secret destinations of the President and First Lady.

When it’s time to cool off, head to Malibu Jack’s for a day of laser tag and mini golf. The indoor go-kart tracks are a great way for kids to race their friends. Jack’s Sandbar and Grill is a great place to refuel afterward. It’s a must-visit place for families in Lexington!

A Diverse Community

According to U.S. News’ analysis of 66 major cities, the Lexington community is becoming increasingly diverse. Over the last decade, Lexington has seen growth in every racial group except White.

The city’s Hispanic population also grew. There is now a 47.2 percent chance that two randomly chosen Lexington residents are of different races, the study found. This compares to 50.8% in Louisville and 49.8% nationally.

Desiree Jackson is an artist whose work hangs in the Diversity’s perspective art gallery at the Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center. She says that the increase will be good for the local community. She wants Lexington, Kentucky to be a community where people from all backgrounds can mix.

CASA volunteers are a reflection of the community they serve, and that’s why it is important to include people from all backgrounds. Volunteers are expected to commit a minimum of five hours a month, but they can sign up for as many opportunities as their schedule allows.