We may be biased when we say any time of the year is a good time to visit Lexington, but there is truly something about the springtime. Those first warm, sunny days after a dark cold winter – flowers blooming, a new beginning! We are rounding up some of our favorite activities in Lexington for enjoying the great weather and the city itself.
First, here’s what to do right here.
You don’t have to go far to explore, indulge and recharge when you stay at 21c Lexington. As you walk through our doors, you’ll find yourself immediately immersed in our current exhibitions, Robert Morgan: Myths and Stories and Hide and Seek: Projecting, Portraying, and Playing with Identity. Enjoy Executive Chef Nick Fisherkeller’s Kentucky-inspired menu in our newly renovated space featuring a casual and relaxed atmosphere through new furniture, rugs, and greenery throughout the Lockbox Restaurant + Lounge space.
Explore the city
Grab your bike and hit the Legacy Trail, which connects downtown Lexington with area neighborhoods, parks and historic sites on a northward course to the Kentucky Horse Park. This incredible and one-of-a-kind place showcases and celebrates the history of horses through a wide range of educational offerings, including museums, galleries, theaters, and working farm exhibits. Admire the rolling hills of the Kentucky bluegrass with a picturesque view of nearly 50 breeds of horses grazing upon its 1,200 acres of lush pastures. Or stay close to downtown and discover Lexington’s vibrant street art scene with commissioned works by street artists from all over the world. Take things to the next level and tackle Visit Lexington’s Mural Challenge.
Drink like the locals
In recent years, the craft brewery scene has become really popular in Lexington. Head less than a mile down the road to Country Boy Brewing, a cozy craft brewery taproom with food truck. Hang on the outdoor patio and play oversized Jenga with friends or cheer on your favorite sports team from the big screen TVs inside by the bar. Pair your brew with a brick oven pizza from Mirror Twin Brewing or try an experimental micro-brew at Ethereal Brewery in Distillery District. Wind down at night with a cocktail just a few blocks away at a cozy bar called Ona.
Now, we couldn’t forget about bourbon! After all, you are in Kentucky. Explore the countryside and visit distilleries like Castle & Key, Buffalo Trace, Woodford Distillery and Wild Turkey for a guided tour. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, chances are Lockbox has it. Just head down to the bar for a flight! Looking to take a bottle home with you? Visit Justin’s House of Bourbon and find wall-to-wall selections, including some old and rare finds, or take home a bottle of our exclusive private barrel 21c Selects, which are bottled in limited quantities, from our gift shop.
Hike the Great Outdoors
The Daniel Boone National Forest is filled with more than 600-miles of trails for hiking and biking, leaving plenty of room for adventure and an opportunity to see something new every time you visit. Within Daniel Boone National Forest is the Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge Geological Area. Natural Bridge State Resort Park (located within the Daniel Boone National Forest) has several family friendly trails, which surround the Natural Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in Kentucky. Don’t forget to bring your camera – whether you’re on the bridge looking out above the tree canopies or on a trail below, you’re guaranteed to stumble upon the perfect photo-op! From beginner trails to difficult anybody can enjoy the incredible views Kentucky has to offer. Fuel up for your big hike with a local, grass-fed burger from Red River Rockhouse, a family-owned café focused on sustainability and sourcing ingredients locally. Post hike, indulge in a well-earned burrito and margarita from La Cabana Mexican Restaurant or a slice of ‘za from the infamous Miguel’s Pizza.
For the Furry Travel Companions
Your pet will love exploring Lexington with you too, (we are waiving pet fees in 2022) so bring them along for the fun! You can still take advantage of the craft beer scene with a pup in tow, Take a short bike ride to West Sixth, in the beer garden and on the outdoor patio. They share space with a Chef Ouita (who is a 6-time James Beard Nominee and Lexington local legend) restaurant, Smithtown Seafood. Pro-tip: don’t skip on the Fried Banana Pepper Rings. Find authentic German lagers and British ales focusing on traditional brewing techniques and ingredients at Blue Stallion- dogs are allowed indoors and outdoors.
Whether your grabbing a slice of ‘za from Goodfellas Pizzeria, a scoop of ice cream from Crank & Boom Ice Cream or a craft brew from Ethereal Brewing Co., Distillery District is a hub of attractions in Lexington. There are many outdoor seating options with plenty of space for your four-legged friend to wag their tail.
Tire out your pup at The Arboretum, home to 100-acres of gardens and a two-mile path featuring wild-collected native plants from the seven physiographic regions of Kentucky. It’s the perfect place for a quiet, cozy picnic or a casual stroll with your four-legged friend. Or are you and your hound in need of a quiet place to recharge and relax? Kentucky Native Cafe is the place for you. While your pal takes a well-deserved nap, you can enjoy local craft beer, wine and Bavarian pretzels in this urban oasis.
Ready to pack your bags and head to Lexington? Book your spring stay at 21c Lexington with our Drive + Diner + Discover Package! Along with your stay, enjoy Valet Parking, a $100 food & beverage credit to Lockbox, and 24-hour access to our museum galleries! Book here.
