Known as both the Thoroughbred City and the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington, KY is best known for its horseracing.  However there are many additional attractions – museums, parks, historical sites, and cultural events – to tempt visitors, several of them free of charge. 

Located in the heart of the Bluegrass region, Lexington is home to several summer festivals, including the Festival of Bluegrass, Kentucky’s oldest bluegrass music festival, and “It’s a Grand Night for Singing,” a Broadway solute performed by the University of Kentucky’s Opera Theatre. Both of these events are held annually in June and are followed by a 4th of July celebration in downtown Lexington that lasts for several days.

Though hot and humid, summer is the ideal time to experience Lexington’s cultural offerings. Although several of the free attractions listed below are open year round.

1. Keeneland Thoroughbred Racing – Glimpse the Thoroughbred racing world by watching an early morning workout, or stroll along the track on a self-guided tour.

2. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary - Explore 734 acres of natural beauty and hike trails through meadows, woodlands and streams.

3. Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau - Pick up a Lexington Walking and Driving Tour Map to see historic Lexington and the Bluegrass’ legendary landscape. You can also schedule a free horse farm tour.

4. The Lexington History Museum – Lexington’s only free historic site. Located in the former Fayette County Courthouse, this museum offers many exhibits and family-friendly activities.

5. Capitol Complex - Take a tour of Kentucky's 1810 Beaux Arts Style Capitol in Frankfort and see murals of historic figures, dolls dressed in replicas of First Ladies’ inaugural gowns, and, if you’re timing is right, Kentucky legislators in action.

1. Old Kentucky Chocolates – See how candy is made and get a sampling of this historic shop’s bestsellers. Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1-4 p.m.

2. Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky – Take a tram tour through this car-manufacturing plant – Monday-Friday at 10 a.m., Noon, and 2 p.m. with a 6 p.m. tour added on Thursdays.

3. Jacobson Park – Cast a line into this park’s 47 acre lake or try your hand at paddle boating while the kids enjoy one of Lexington’s creative playground structures.

4. Camp Nelson National Cemetery and Civil War Site – Hike more than 5 miles of interpretive trail through this former Civil War base. Then visit the graves of nearly 1,600 soldiers buried in its cemetery.

Next >