Kick off your Kentucky adventure in Lexington, a vibrant hub of indie bourbon distilleries, street art and bluegrass bars that set the tone for an unforgettable journey. The coolest corner of Kentucky? It’d have to be Lexington. Sure, the southern state of Kentucky is known for its natural beauty – think Appalachian mountains to the east, plus rolling hills of horse country and limestone caves – and then you reach Lexington, a thrumming, vibrant city known for its indy bourbon distilleries, bluegrass bars, street art and seriously cool hotels. Journeying to America’s south? Don’t miss this soulful city where tradition and creativity combine.
![[Come to Lexington for its rolling hills of picturesque horse country; stay for the vibrant and exciting inner-city experiences]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/12/12/11/lexington-horse-farm-1.jpg)
Embark on the bourbon trail. If you’re searching for your perfect bourbon blend, you’ll find it here. Lexington is dotted with distilleries where you can learn about production and – more importantly – taste the liquor. Fresh Bourbon is run by Tia Edwards, the first African-American woman since slavery to distill bourbon in Kentucky. Her downtown tasting room has an elegant bar feel, with crystal chandeliers and a vibe that’s designed to appeal to both men and women. Down the road, Justin’s House of Bourbon has the largest collection of vintage and rare bourbon in the state. Whether you’re a bourbon first timer or a big fan, both are a must for understanding the importance – and appreciating the taste – of America’s ‘native spirit’.
![[Take a trip to Keeneland where you can watch world-class thoroughbreds gallop around the course]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/12/12/11/Keeneland-Spring-Race-Meet-%281%29.jpg)
Place your bets at Keeneland. Kentucky is famed for its horses, and while the Kentucky Derby deserves its spotlight, watching world-class thoroughbreds race at Keeneland is arguably just as epic. Get in the thick of the action and soak up the fence-line atmosphere with a general admission ticket, or if that’s not for you, why not venture into the peaceful countryside on a horse farm tour, where you can meet horsing legends – past and present.
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