Lexington’s standout tours center on three main attractions: thoroughbred farms, bourbon, and history. The Horse Farm Tours rank as the city’s best experience, offering intimate looks at world-class breeding operations and training facilities. In the Distillery District, guided walks blend bourbon tastings with local culture, while historic tours of the Henry Clay Estate reveal the city’s political past. For adventure seekers, the Kentucky River Palisades zipline tours provide thrilling views of limestone cliffs. Let’s explore these essential Lexington experiences in detail.
Key Points
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Lexington offers a range of immersive tours, from comprehensive Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tours to Culinary and Beverage Tours showcasing the city’s vibrant food and drink culture.
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Art and History Tours, such as the Ashland Henry Clay Estate Tour and Guided Walking Art and Appetizers Tour, provide a deep dive into Lexington’s rich cultural heritage.
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Adventure and Outdoor Activities, including Zipline Canopy Tours, allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Kentucky River Palisades.
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Many Lexington tours feature small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and high customer satisfaction ratings, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.
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Tour accessibility, including wheelchair-friendly options and accommodations for service animals, reflects Lexington’s commitment to inclusivity and making its attractions accessible to all visitors.
Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky
The Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Kentucky’s renowned Bluegrass region.
This 3-hour tour takes guests to Keeneland Race Course and one or more local thoroughbred farms, providing an in-depth look at the history and traditions of horse racing and breeding in the United States.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small-group format ensures a personalized experience as you learn about the region’s equine culture.
Highlights include petting retired racehorses and gaining insights into the meticulous care and training required to produce world-class thoroughbreds.
With 1,678 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Lexington.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and Kentucky law requires car seats for infants and booster seats for children under 8.
The tour departs and returns to the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington/UK Coldstream, providing a convenient starting point for your equine adventure.
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Lexington: Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket With Guided Tour
Offering a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of one of America’s most influential statesmen, the Lexington: Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket with Guided Tour immerses visitors in the life and times of Henry Clay.
Priced at $25 per person, the 50-minute to 1-hour guided tour provides an in-depth look at Clay’s 18-room Italianate-style mansion, allowing guests to discover artifacts and learn about his storied career.
The tour offers several options, including the Signature Tour, Women’s Voices Tour, Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour, and Art & Grounds Tour, each providing a different perspective on Clay’s impact.
Visitors can also opt for a Combo Tour, combining the Signature Tour with either the Women’s Voices or Traces tour.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 42 reviews, the tour is praised for its informative guides and excellent value.
The estate’s amenities, including gardens and walking trails, further enhance the experience for visitors.
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Unique Horse Farm Tours With Insider Access to Private Farms
Though visitors to Lexington can find a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, few experiences rival the opportunity to venture behind the scenes of the city’s renowned horse industry.
The Unique Horse Farm Tours provide an exclusive look into prestigious equine facilities, many of which are typically closed to the public. With a 97% traveler recommendation rate based on over 1,000 reviews, these tours offer a truly immersive encounter with thoroughbreds, including the chance to feed them peppermint treats.
Led by knowledgeable and passionate guides, guests visit three top-tier horse facilities and gain insightful perspectives on the care, racing, and breeding of these magnificent animals.
Offering both morning and afternoon options, the tours accommodate a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether an avid equestrian or a curious first-time visitor, the Unique Horse Farm Tours provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of Lexington’s renowned horse culture.
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Lexington: Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Visit
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Lexington’s renowned equine heritage, the Lexington: Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Visit offers an immersive experience.
Lasting 3.5 hours, the tour takes visitors to thoroughbred horse farms to learn about training and breeding. Knowledgeable local guides, some of whom are retired jockeys, share insights into Kentucky’s rich equine industry history.
Participants may also have the chance to tour Keeneland Race Course, a prominent racetrack featured in films like Secretariat and Seabiscuit. The tour is suitable for adults and seniors, with transportation provided in a comfortable 13-person van.
Priced from €40.35 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore Lexington’s horse culture. With a 4.9/5 rating based on 274 reviews, the tour delivers an unforgettable, high-quality experience for those eager to explore the “Horse Capital of the World.”
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Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour Through Kentucky River Palisades
Soaring above the captivating Kentucky River Palisades, the Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour offers adventurous visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
With an impressive 100% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence from Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour stands out as a must-do experience in Lexington.
Participants can expect a thrilling adventure across six ziplines, three suspension bridges, and a rappel, all while taking in the stunning views of limestone gorges, spring-fed creeks, and old-growth trees.
Certified guides provide safety and educational insights, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Suitable for team building and group outings, this tour is accessible to most, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
At $101.54 per person, the Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour offers an exceptional value, with complimentary photos and refreshments provided.
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From Lexington: Kentucky Horse Farms Tour
Offering a captivating glimpse into Kentucky’s rich equine heritage, the Kentucky Horse Farms Tour provides visitors an immersive experience amidst the rolling hills and prestigious stables of Lexington.
Priced at €47.07 per person, this 3-hour English-language tour allows guests to interact closely with horses, including feeding them, and learn about the region’s renowned horse racing and breeding industry from knowledgeable guides.
Visitors may explore KatieRich Farms, The Thoroughbred Center, and other top attractions, with the potential to observe horses swimming or visit a horse hospital.
Boasting a 5/5 overall rating based on 67 reviews, the tour earns praise for its engaging guides, scenic vistas, and unforgettable encounters with these majestic animals.
Suitable for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, this tour offers an immersive look into Kentucky’s cherished horse culture.
Read our full review: From Lexington: Kentucky Horse Farms Tour Review
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Walking Food Tour Downtown Lexington
Visitors can enjoy Lexington’s vibrant culinary scene on the Walking Food Tour Downtown Lexington. This 3-hour, 1-mile tour covers five food stops, showcasing a sample menu that includes Benedictine with bacon, macaroni beignet, and hangar steak with garlic mash.
Operated by Bites of the Bluegrass, the tour is highly recommended, with 99% of 493 travelers giving it their seal of approval. The tour starts and ends at the VisitLEX Lexington Visitors Center, with a maximum of 12 travelers for a personal experience.
Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling, providing informative and entertaining insights into Lexington’s rich history and culture. While alcoholic beverages aren’t included, the tour focuses on local and regional cuisine, blending traditional Kentucky specialties with modern innovations.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, this culinary adventure is a must-try for anyone visiting Lexington.
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Lexington: Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour
For adventurous travelers seeking to explore Lexington from a unique vantage point, the Lexington: Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour provides an exhilarating experience. Priced at $99 per person, this 2.5-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the Boone Creek Gorge, featuring 6 ziplines, 3 suspended bridges, and a rappel.
With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from the live tour guide who’ll share fascinating insights about Kentucky’s history as you zip across a 1400-foot line.
The tour’s active participation model allows participants to control their own braking, building confidence as the course progresses from low and slow to larger zips. While cameras and skirts are prohibited, you’ll want to wear closed-toe shoes to fully learn about this thrilling outdoor adventure.
Rated 4.9/5 by previous guests, the Lexington: Fully Guided Zipline Canopy Tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
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Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour
The Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour takes visitors on a 2.5-hour culinary and cocktail adventure through the heart of Lexington. Rated 5.0 stars with 100% traveler recommendations, this tour offers a unique opportunity to taste local food and expertly mixed cocktails while learning about the city’s history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour kicks off at Lucias World Emporium, where participants can expect to sample a variety of delectable bites and libations.
With a maximum of 14 guests, the experience provides an intimate and social atmosphere, allowing visitors to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. The tour is wheelchair-friendly and welcomes service animals, making it accessible to a wide range of guests.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s engaging guides, particularly highlighting Dr. Kat, and the fantastic combination of food, drinks, and historical insights.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Bites of the Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Tour promises an unforgettable taste of Lexington’s vibrant culinary scene.
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2-Hour Guided Walking Art and Appetizers Tour in Lexington
Where can visitors experience a unique blend of art, appetizers, and Lexington’s rich history? The 2-Hour Guided Walking Art and Appetizers Tour in Lexington, operated by Art Walk, offers an immersive experience. Priced from $75 per person, this tour accommodates up to 15 travelers aged 15 and above.
The tour begins at the Artists Attic Inc and ends at the 21c Museum Hotel Lexington, covering a distance of just two blocks. Along the way, guests enjoy a generous selection of appetizers and snacks, as well as bottled water. A friendly, knowledgeable guide provides insights into the local art scene and Lexington’s heritage.
Ample time is allotted for photography, and participants receive fun, useful handouts. While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 11 reviews, the tour receives positive feedback on the art experience, though some guests were surprised by the food quantity. The host addresses these concerns, emphasizing the fresh preparation of appetizers.
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Lexingtons Art Walk Tour
Lexington’s Art Walk Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant art scene. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 96% of travelers recommending it, this tour provides an insider’s look at local artists and their creative processes. For $40 per person, participants embark on a guided journey that showcases galleries, murals, and unique art installations, such as the art-covered electrical boxes.
The tour includes complimentary bottled water, drinks, and refreshments, as well as opportunities for photography. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, the experience begins at the 21c Museum Hotel and concludes at the Artists Attic Inc.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the moderate-level walking tour is near public transportation. With a maximum group size of 12, the Art Walk Tour allows for personalized attention and ample time to appreciate Lexington’s artistic treasures.
Travelers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and engagement, making this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the city’s thriving artistic community.
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Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington
What better way to explore Lexington’s vibrant Distillery District than through a 3-hour food and history tour? Rated 5.0 out of 5 on Viator and Tripadvisor, this tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive experience.
Led by a local foodie guide, you’ll sample local favorites like bourbon, burgoo stew, and award-winning ice cream, all while learning about the area’s rich history and culture.
The tour includes 4 small food plates and a dessert, plus 3 beverages ranging from cider to cocktails. Starting at 2:30 PM, the tour departs from RELIC Lexington and is wheelchair accessible.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, as well as the quality and variety of the food, this tour is a true badge of excellence.
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply seeking a unique way to experience Lexington, the Distillery District Food & History Tour isn’t to be missed.
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Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour
Offering an exclusive glimpse into the world of thoroughbred racing, the Behind the Scenes Thoroughbred Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the 230-acre Thoroughbred Center in Lexington, Kentucky.
Running from April 1 to October 31, Monday to Saturday, and November 1 to March 31, Monday to Friday, the tour allows a maximum of 12 travelers to observe the training, care, and grooming of these magnificent equines.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour includes transportation from the meeting point to the barns, where guests can witness training sessions in action.
Priced at $16.35 per person, the tour has earned a 4.7-star rating from 13 reviews, promising an immersive experience for anyone interested in the art of thoroughbred racing.
With drinks and gratuities included, this small-group tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the behind-the-scenes workings of the Thoroughbred Center.
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Full-Day Lexington Farm Tour With Clay Pigeon Shooting
For those eager to explore the equine-centric culture of Lexington beyond the Thoroughbred Center, the Full-Day Lexington Farm Tour with Clay Pigeon Shooting promises an unparalleled immersion. Priced at $199 per person, this small-group tour limited to 12 participants grants exclusive access to three local horse farms in a single day.
Guests can expect to witness the daily life of Kentucky’s renowned equine industry while enjoying the thrill of clay target shooting at a private, members-only venue.
The experience includes complimentary transportation, a professional guide, and a lunch stop at a local restaurant. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and permits service animals.
Travelers should note the moderate fitness level required. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on a recent review, this tour offers an engaging and personalized exploration of Lexington’s agricultural heritage.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
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Recap
Lexington offers a diverse array of tours that showcase the city’s rich history and cultural attractions. From immersive horse farm experiences to outdoor adventures and culinary explorations, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in thoroughbreds, distilleries, or the arts, Lexington’s tour options provide unique and memorable ways to discover the city’s vibrant spirit.