Lexington is famed for its thoroughbred horses, lush landscapes, beautiful rolling hills, cultural attractions and outdoor fun. The city has something for everyone! History buffs can visit the historic sites and museums. Step back in time at the historic homes. Adventurous travelers can indulge in hiking and outdoor pursuits. The city has fine array of distilleries for the Bourbon connoisseurs. Sports fan can catch a game of basketball, football or hockey and cheer in the stands for the fav teams. There’s so much to do and see in the “Athens of the West”. Stop by sometime!
Image by Censusdata, Analogue Kid, FloNight, Jason Phillips via Wikimedia Commons
History of Lexington
In 1775, Lexington was founded in Virginia. Daniel Boone was the first white men to discover the area. He helped in setting up the Kentucky’s foremost forts in Boonesborough and Harrodsburg. The city was originally named after Lexington Massachusetts as William McConnell and his group was inspired by the colonist’s triumph in the battle of Concord and Lexington in April, 1775. On May 6, 1782, Lexington city was established by an act of the Virginia General Assembly. Lexington was one of the wealthiest and largest cities of the Allegheny Mountains by 1820. Because of the rich and unique culture and lifestyle, it was named as the “Athens of the West”.
Important Locations in Lexington
The heart of the Bluegrass and the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington is an interesting and exciting spot brimming with beautiful attractions and fun things to do and see!
Kentucky Horse Park: Everything in Lexington centers on horses. Tour the Kentucky Horse Park that offers comprehensive information on horses. It has a museum, equine presentations and horse-drawn tours.
Find out more about the horses here.
Lexington Cemetery: Explore the political, social, environmental and military history of the town at the
Lexington Cemetery.
Mary Todd Lincoln House: Tour the historic house of the first lady of the US (1861-1865) and check out the personal items and family portraits of the Lincoln-Todd families. Insightful and historical tour of the
Mary Todd Lincoln House.
Aviation Museum of Kentucky: Learn the history and science of the aviation industry at the
Aviation Museum of Kentucky. Check out the aircraft's and travel exhibits on display.
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary: The
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is home to a great diversity of birds, and has over 10 miles of hiking trails, bird blind and a nature center.
Waveland State Historic Site: Take a look of plantation life in the nineteenth century at the
Waveland State Historic Site. It also has a smokehouse, slave quarters and an icehouse.
Hunt-Morgan House:
Hunt-Morgan House was built by John Wesley Hunt, the first millionaire of the Alleghenies Mountain west. It features a walled courtyard and garden, early nineteenth century portraits, a collection of period furniture, and has a Civil War museum upstairs.
Keeneland Race Course: Catch the horse race and watch horses train at the
Keeneland Race Course. It is a historic and scenic race course distinguished by its lush surroundings and limestone building.
The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky: Explore nature at the
Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky. It has themed gardens that emphasize on roses, butterflies, water environment, herbs and kids interests.
University of Kentucky Art Museum: Peruse the artwork by artists from different times and countries at the
University of Kentucky Art Museum. It houses the American and European works of art from the old ancient times to the present period in time.
Find out more about the important locations in Lexington, KY here.
People and Culture of Lexington
People of Kentucky are warm, friendly and welcoming. It is a city where people of all background mingle together. The city is known for its warmth and hospitality. The city offers plenty of cultural attractions, and is a center for arts and culture, thus acquiring the nickname “Athens of the West”.
Some of the famous personalities who have their roots in Lexington are: George Clooney, Mary Todd Lincoln, Pat Robertson, Michael Shannon, and more.
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Lexington
Time Zone
From November to March: Eastern Standard Time
From March to November: Eastern Daylight Savings Time
Lexington is UTC/GMT- 5 hours during Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Lexington is GMT/UTC - 4h during Daylight Saving Time (EDT)
Phone Codes
Area code: 859
International dialing code: 1
Best Time to Visit Lexington
The best time to visit Lexington is spring and fall, when you can experience the scenic beauty of the bluegrass. Summer is also a pleasant time to visit Lexington. Indulge in outdoor fun, sports activities and enjoy sightseeing in Lexington during these seasons. There are plenty of horse shows and other events/festivals held throughout the year in Lexington. Some of the popular events and festivals are:
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