Lexington, Kentucky: The Athens of the West

Looking for an interesting place to visit this spring? You might want to think about visiting the blue grass country - Kentucky, most specifically, Lexington, Kentucky's second-largest city - for a spring treat you won't soon forget.

Known, among other nicknames, as 'the city in the park,' 'Thoroughbred City,' and "The Horse Capital of the World.' Lexington is in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass Region, and, while it might be the 63d largest urban area in the United States, has a warm, small town feel to it unlike any other city you've ever experienced.

Interesting History

Founded in June 1775, Lexington was originally in the state of Virginia. Kentucky territory didn't achieve statehood until 1792. The city was founded as a campsite by a group of explorers led by William McConnell, and after hearing of the American victory at the Battles of Lexington and Concord, they named their site Lexington, after Lexington, Massachusetts. Later fortified, Lexington played a minor role in the late stages of the American Revolution in 1782, defending against British and Indian attacks. The Virginia General Assembly established Lexington as a town on May 6, 1782.

By 1820, Lexington was one of the wealthiest cities west of the Allegheny Mountains, and had such a cultured lifestyle it was known as 'the Athens of the West.' John Wesley Hunt, a resident of the city, was one of America's first millionaires west of the Alleghenies.

Still 'the Athens of the West'

Present day Lexington retains much of the charm of its past; a city with warm southern hospitality alongside an urbane sophistication, setting it apart from most southern cities. Home to Transylvania University, the University of Kentucky, Sullivan University, Spencerian College, MedTech College, Strayer University, Commonwealth Baptist College, and Bluegrass Community and Technical College, it ranks tenth among US cities for college education levels, with nearly 40% of its residents holding at least a bachelor's degree.

The city is surrounded by horse farms, and for horse lovers, this is the place to go. It is home to Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Race Course, and Red Mile Race Course, and in 2010 was selected as the site for the FEI World Equestrian Games.

Lexington has a vibrant arts community, with a professional orchestra, two ballet companies, professional theater, and a variety of museums. The University of Kentucky Art Museum is one of the largest in the state, and the only accredited museum in the region.T In June, Lexington is the venue for the Festival of Bluegrass, the oldest bluegrass music festival in Kentucky, a weekend of fun and music for all ages.

Things to Do

Deciding what to do in Lexington is no big problem, just chose an activity and go for it. Along with the museums, activities for horse fanciers, and cultural activities, the city offers an eclectic choice of cuisine, street markets, and shops ranging from quaint antiques to modern fashion. It is also in convenient driving distance from Berea, a small town some 40 miles away that is known as a haven for arts and crafts people, with some 20 shops and studios that welcome visitors. And, while you're at it, don't overlook a visit to Heaven Hill Distilleries in Bardstown or the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, to get a look at how Kentucky Bourbon is made. Both facilities are open for tours.

Heaven Hill Distillery

Attn: Tours Dept.

PO Box 729

Bardstown, KY 40504-0729

The Jim Beam American Outpost

Clermont, KY 40110

Phone: (502) 543-9877

Getting There and Where to Stay

You can, of course, drive to Lexington; the scenery through horse country is fantastic, and Interstates 64 and 75 provide easy motor access. The city has a medium sized airport not far from downtown, which is serviced by most major American carriers from major airports in Atlanta and other major cities in the region. You can also fly into larger airports in Louisville or Cincinnati, Ohio, which are only 90 minutes drive from Lexington.

Lexington has a number of hotels and motels located throughout the city and its suburbs, with rates from under $100 to over $200. My favorite, because of its location convenient to the University and downtown, and its rates, is the Holiday Inn Express Suites.

Holiday Inn Express Suites Downtown

1000 Export St.

Lexington, KY 40504

http://www.discoverourtown.com/hotel/87986.html