The Best of Town and Country

Nestled amongst the rolling hills and pastures of bluegrass country, Lexington's an attractive weekend getaway. Large horse farms and racing venues flank the area, and distilleries continue to preserve the local bourbon-making tradition.

Founded in 1775, downtown Lexington is lined with historic buildings, including several homes dating back to the 19th century, and unique shops and restaurants give the city modern appeal. For those who love the picturesque landscape of the country but want convenient accommodations and perhaps a little luxury, Lexington's the perfect fit.

Housed in an elegant brick home built in 1883, the Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast is located downtown and offers tastefully decorated rooms with views of the Lyndon House gardens, Broadway Street and the Fayette Park neighborhood. From this prime location, guests may walk to many of the city's attractions, shops and restaurants.

With that said, it's worth the drive outside the city to see the beauty of the surrounding countryside and pay tribute to the four-legged beauties that drive tourism in Kentucky: thoroughbreds. Drive to Kentucky Horse Park, where you'll spot a number of champions, tour several barns and pet some of the horses. Approximately 50 breeds, including the English Shire, Appaloosa, Percheron, Trakehner and Friesian are housed in the park, and there are also two indoor museums and a movie theater onsite.
 
After you leave, have lunch downtown, where you'll find a pleasing selection of eateries convenient to the neighborhood's shops and sites. For a casually elegant atmosphere, flavorful soups and sandwiches, try Bistro 147.

Lexington's a huge destination for antiques, whether you're a casual shopper or serious collector. The bounty ranges from imported European furniture to Shaker crafts to fine jewelry, and there're enough stores in town to keep you browsing all day. Some of the most popular items include handmade quilts, china cabinets and original art work. Several notable antique stores line Main Street including Ann Greely Interiors and Antiques, Lexington Antique Gallery and Clark Art and Antiques, around the corner on Short Street. Victorian Square, a complex of old buildings on West Main, houses some notable galleries, craft stores and jewelry and gift shops.

If you don't spend the entire afternoon shopping, one of the best downtown attractions is the Mary Todd Lincoln House, a stately brick home, where its namesake first lady lived with her family from 1818-1839 before meeting Abraham Lincoln in Springfield. The interior has been restored to its 19th century style and is outfitted with some of the Todd family's furniture and belongings.

For dinner, if you're willing to splurge a bit, Jonathan at Gratz Park Inn is spectacular. Its inviting bar area appeals to folks who want to sip Jonathan's famous bourbon cocktail, the Belle Brezing, and enjoy fabulous food without reservations or dressy attire. The menu, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and Southern flavors, presents delicacies like fried green tomato salad, shrimp and grits, bacon-wrapped filet mignon and bourbon crème brulee.

After dinner, you may opt to sip tasty gourmet coffee drinks at the inviting Common Grounds Coffeehouse, or for a little more action, try to catch a live band at The Dame, an awesome downtown music club, just a short walk from Gratz Park Inn.