Lexington is the second largest city in Kentucky. It is nowhere near the size of a major metropolis, but that doesn’t mean it lacks a cosmopolitan flare. Despite the fact that it sits in a state mainly known for its rural countryside, Lexington is not (by any means) a backwater.

Horses are at the heart of Lexington’s image. Kentucky horse farms have produced more than their share of champion thoroughbreds over the years. Colts hone their skills at nearby Keeneland Race Course before trying to break into the big time. Kentucky Horse Park is a tourist-oriented site with a museum and the occasional horse show. A short drive out of town will lead to some of the oldest and largest horse farms in the U.S. Many winners of one of the prestigious Triple Crown events took their first steps inside one of the barns.

Lexington is not all about horseshoes and saddles, though. A large part of the city’s atmosphere comes from The University of Kentucky. The city owes a lot of its diversity and energy to the fact that it is home to one of the largest schools in the U.S.

Highbrow culture can be found at the Downtown Arts Center or the Lexington Opera House. There are also plenty of upscale eateries in or near downtown. But, this being a college town, cheap local grub and a laid back atmosphere is always just a block away. Spacious bars with patios and pool tables are scattered throughout the city’s center.

Visitors can get a taste of just how crazy Kentucky is about basketball at Rupp Arena, home of the Kentucky Wildcats. They are consistently one of the best NCAA teams in the country. Kentucky lacks a pro franchise, so locals lend their boisterous support to the Wildcats whenever they have a home game.

No one would mistake Lexington for a big city. However, no one who takes the time to visit would label it as anything but exciting.

Horseback Riding in Lexington, KY

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