Established in 1978, Kentucky Horse Park aims at providing visitors with knowledge regarding horses. Multiple restaurants located on-site offer guests a refreshing break. International Museum of the Horse, American Saddlebred Museum, the memorial and sculpture park gives visitors deeper insight into the history and varieties of horses. Riding on horse-drawn carriages and ponies makes the educational tour around the park an interesting one. The park is also home to the popular Man O War memorial. Screening of equestrian films, horse racing and equestrian shows are regular features at this park.
Founded by an eminent American politician, Henry Clay, Ashland's beginnings date back to 1809, when it started out as a simple block house. By 1811, it expanded into a sprawling mansion with a surrounding garden, that occupied 600 acres (242.81 hectares) of land. The property was named after the Ash trees that surrounded the place. Following Clay's death in 1852, Ashland has housed various occupants, and has been functioning as a historic house and museum since 1950. Visitors can enjoy tours of the magnificent mansion and take in its splendor. End your visit to Ashland by enjoying a relaxed meal at Ginkgo Tree Cafe, located on site.
The Aviation Museum of Kentucky was established in 1995 and displays a collection of historic air crafts, documents, pictures and some training equipment. From war planes to vintage airplanes, the museum houses a fascinating collection of the military and civilian aircraft. The museum also provides guided tours to the visitors.
The 100 acre (40 hectare) expanse of Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Arboretum is divided into various areas such as the Home Fruit and Nuts Garden, Herb Garden, Woody Plant Collection and much more. The garden is open to the public for free and also frequently organizes special programs for kids, priced at a low amount.
Walter Bradley Park is a lush green oasis in Midway. Sprawling across 28 acres (11.33 hectares), the beautiful urban park is a stunning recreational destination for the entire family. Featuring a network of trails that span along four miles (6.43 kilometers), the park is ideal for activities like walking, jogging, hiking, and walking your pet. The vast green spaces are perfect to enjoy a picnic with your family and loved ones while soaking in the tranquil, blissful atmosphere of the quaint town.
Taking pride in its equestrian and spirit-making history, Equus Run Vineyards boasts the motto "Wine Country in Horse Country". True to its name, this unique winery features thoroughbred horse farms that are iconic to the town along with lush vineyards, making for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Soak in the quaint charm of the town as you treat yourself to flavorful wine tastings and explore 38 acres (15.37 hectares) of lush green fields. The winery also offers picnic spreads and gourmet baskets on demand, so that you can enjoy a leisurely day with your family at the beautiful patio blessed with serene views.
Christ Church Cathedral was established in 1796 though the present structure was built in 1848 by Thomas Lewinski, a renowned Lexington architect. This magnificent Gothic Revival edifice is a dominating feature in Downtown Lexington's skyline and history. It was the first Episcopal congregation in town and is the oldest of its kind in the state. Its interiors are just as stately as its facade. Get impressed by stunning stained glass windows, buttresses, arches and the nave. It is the base of The Episcopal Diocese of Lexington. It is also renowned for its music and is a gallery space for religious art as well.
The Old Governor's Mansion, famously known as the Palace, is a courtly edifice nestled on the campus of Georgia College and State University. Boasting a structural pediment and a lovely, pastel pink visage, the mansion is a perfect embodiment of charming Greek Revival style. The historic mansion was the residence of the Governor of Kentucky from 1798 to 1914, covering the tenures of 35 different governors. Throughout its history, the mansion has hosted many notable guests, including Andrew Jackson, Henry Clay and Theodore Roosevelt. The building served as the residence of the Lieutenant Governor until 2002. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973, this has been one of the driving factors in shaping the social history of the city.
Built in 1796, Liberty Hall was one of the earliest brick houses in the area. The stately home was built by John Brown, an American lawyer and senator who is well known for his role in Kentucky's ascension to statehood in 1792. Brown went on to become one of Kentucky's first United States Senator's for the state. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1971, Liberty Hall now serves as a museum with tours and special events offered throughout the year. The house is widely acknowledged as one of the finest specimens of Georgian architecture from the state of Kentucky and has housed a number of prominent public figures such as renowned children's book author Margaret Wise Brown. Besides Liberty Hall, the the site is also home to the Orlando Brown House, showcasing belongings of the Brown family.
The American Saddlebred Museum is dedicated to display the local culture and history to the visitors. It has a wide array of permanent exhibits and an extensive library as well as a children's area. The museum is open throughout the year on all days and visitors can take guided tours. The museum focuses on how the American Saddlebred played a pivotal role in the nation's history. There are a number of interesting exhibitions at the museum which are changed every year. The American Saddlebred Museum also houses a gift shop which has a variety of souvenirs and other things to pick up from.
Established in 1978, Kentucky Horse Park aims at providing visitors with knowledge regarding horses. Multiple restaurants located on-site offer guests a refreshing break. International Museum of the Horse, American Saddlebred Museum, the memorial and sculpture park gives visitors deeper insight into the history and varieties of horses. Riding on horse-drawn carriages and ponies makes the educational tour around the park an interesting one. The park is also home to the popular Man O War memorial. Screening of equestrian films, horse racing and equestrian shows are regular features at this park.
The history of the Buffalo Trace Distillery goes back to the late 18th Century, when Hancock Lee used these grounds as a distillery. It used to be known as the Old Fire Copper (O.F.C.) Distillery and alter, the George T. Stagg Distillery. In 1999 it was named as the now famous Buffalo Trace Distillery with the launch of its libation, Buffalo Trace. Regarded as a Kentucky icon, in 2013 it was declared a National Historic Landmark. This distillery has been known for its bourbon whiskey throughout history, rendering it a must-visit for every lover of this drink. They host a number of events; do check the website for details.