Lexington, known as the “Horse Capital of the World”, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. April is an ideal time to visit Lexington, with its temperate weather and numerous events. From exploring the iconic Kentucky Horse Park to immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, here are the 10 best things to do in Lexington April 2024:
1. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park
The Kentucky Horse Park is a sprawling 1,224-acre park dedicated to the celebration of horses. Home to over 50 different breeds of horses, the park offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and the chance to witness some of the world’s finest equestrian athletes in action. You can also visit the International Museum of the Horse, which houses a vast collection of equine artifacts and artwork.
2. Explore Downtown Lexington
Lexington’s vibrant downtown is the heart of the city, where you can find a mix of historic buildings, trendy shops, and delicious restaurants. Visit the Lexington Center, a bustling convention center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where you can find charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
3. Visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House
The Mary Todd Lincoln House is a historic house museum that was once the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. Built in 1806, the house has been meticulously restored and now offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the life of the former First Lady. You can also explore the beautiful gardens that surround the house.
4. Attend a Performance at the Lexington Opera House
The Lexington Opera House is a historic theater that has been hosting performances since 1886. The theater presents a diverse lineup of shows, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and dance performances. Enjoy a night of entertainment in this beautiful and historic venue.
5. Visit the Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate
The Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate, is a historic home that was once the residence of Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman and orator. Built in 1806, the house has been preserved and now offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the life of this important figure in American history.
6. Discover Transylvania University
Transylvania University is a private liberal arts college founded in 1780. Considered the oldest college west of the Allegheny Mountains, Transylvania University offers a variety of tours that highlight its historic campus and academic programs. Visit the Old Morrison building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
7. Visit the Waveland State Historic Site
The Waveland State Historic Site is a historic house museum that was built in 1847. The house has been painstakingly restored and now offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the life of the wealthy Lexington families who lived here. You can also explore the beautiful gardens that surround the house, which were designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.
8. Visit the Hunt-Morgan House
The Hunt-Morgan House is a historic house museum that was built in 1814. The house has been preserved and now offers guided tours that tell the story of the Battle of Cynthiana, which was a pivotal conflict in the American Civil War.
9. Visit the Kentucky Aviation Museum
The Kentucky Aviation Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of aviation in Kentucky. The museum houses a collection of vintage aircraft, including a replica of the Wright brothers’ airplane. You can also learn about the role that Kentucky played in the development of aviation.
10. Visit the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic village that was founded in 1805 by the Shaker religious community. The village has been preserved and now offers a glimpse into the life of the Shakers, who were known for their simplicity, pacifism, and communal lifestyle.
Lexington’s Culture
Lexington is a city with a rich and vibrant culture. The city is home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries. Lexington is also home to a thriving music scene, and there are a number of music venues that host live shows throughout the year. The city is also home to a number of festivals and events, such as the Lexington Film Festival, the Lexington Art League’s Annual Art Fair, and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.
Best Months to Visit Lexington
The best time to visit Lexington is during the months of April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are a number of outdoor activities to enjoy. The city is also less crowded during these months, so you can experience all that Lexington has to offer without the hustle and bustle of the summer months.
Nearby Transportation
Lexington is easily accessible by car, train, and airplane. The city is located at the intersection of Interstates 64 and 75, making it easy to drive to from anywhere in the Midwest or Southeast. Lexington is also served by Amtrak, and there are daily trains to and from Chicago, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis. The closest airport is the Blue Grass Airport (LEX), which is located about 10 miles from downtown Lexington.
Local Food
Lexington is home to a number of delicious restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes in Lexington include:
– Hot Browns: An open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon, Mornay sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese.
– Bourbon balls: A confection made with bourbon, chocolate, and pecans.
– Beer cheese: A cheese dip made with beer, cheddar cheese, and spices.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels in Lexington, including:
– The 21c Museum Hotel Lexington: A stylish hotel that is located in the heart of downtown Lexington.
– The Hyatt Regency Lexington: A luxurious hotel that is located near the Kentucky Horse Park.
– The Hilton Lexington/Downtown: A convenient hotel that is located just a few blocks from downtown Lexington.
Conclusion
Lexington is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There are a number of things to see and do in Lexington, and April is an ideal time to visit. With its temperate weather and numerous events, Lexington is a great place to experience all that Kentucky has to offer.
