20 Fun Facts About Lexington Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky, is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is home to world-renowned horse farms, historic sites, and a thriving food scene. But beyond its famous attractions, the city also boasts a wealth of interesting and lesser-known facts that add to its unique character.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 fun and fascinating facts about Lexington, Kentucky, that highlight the city’s history, culture, and enduring charm.

1. Lexington Is the Horse Capital of the World

Lexington is renowned as the “Horse Capital of the World,” thanks to its rolling bluegrass pastures that are home to some of the finest horse farms on the planet. The region’s ideal soil, climate, and tradition of horse breeding have made it a global center for equestrian sports, particularly thoroughbred racing.

2. The Bluegrass Region

Lexington is situated in the heart of the Bluegrass region, known for its fertile soil, rolling hills, and beautiful landscapes. The region’s unique soil, rich in limestone, contributes to the health of the bluegrass that grows abundantly, providing ideal grazing conditions for horses.

3. A Historic College Town

Lexington is home to the University of Kentucky, founded in 1865, which is one of the largest public universities in the United States. The city also hosts Transylvania University, founded in 1780, making it one of the oldest universities in the country.

4. The First Performance of “My Old Kentucky Home”

“My Old Kentucky Home,” the state song of Kentucky, was first performed publicly in Lexington in 1853. The song, written by Stephen Foster, has since become an iconic symbol of Kentucky’s cultural heritage.

5. Lexington’s Role in the Bourbon Industry

While Bourbon County, Kentucky, is often associated with bourbon whiskey, Lexington plays a significant role in the bourbon industry as well. The city is part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and is home to several distilleries, including Town Branch Distillery and Bluegrass Distillers.

6. Home to the Oldest Continuously Operating Restaurant

Lexington is home to the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Kentucky, the Merrick Inn. The restaurant, which started as a plantation house in the 19th century, has been serving up Southern cuisine for over a century and is a beloved local institution.

7. Henry Clay: The Great Compromiser

Henry Clay, one of America’s most influential statesmen, called Lexington home. Known as the “Great Compromiser” for his role in brokering key agreements during his political career, Clay’s estate, Ashland, is now a historic site and museum open to the public.

8. Lexington’s Historic Homes

Lexington is home to a wealth of historic homes and buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The city’s historic districts, such as Gratz Park and Ashland Park, are filled with beautiful examples of antebellum architecture.

9. The Birthplace of Bourbon and Thoroughbreds

The fertile land around Lexington is not only ideal for breeding thoroughbred horses but also for growing the grains used in bourbon production. This combination has made the Bluegrass region famous for its bourbon whiskey and horse racing, two of Kentucky’s most iconic industries.

10. Lexington’s Connection to the Civil War

During the Civil War, Kentucky was a border state, and Lexington was a city with divided loyalties. The city was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times during the war. The Lexington Cemetery is the final resting place of soldiers from both sides of the conflict.

11. The Lexington Cemetery

Lexington Cemetery, established in 1849, is one of the most beautiful and historic cemeteries in the United States. It is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Henry Clay, as well as Confederate and Union soldiers.

12. The Legacy of Keeneland Racecourse

Keeneland Racecourse, established in 1936, is one of the most prestigious horse racing tracks in the world. Known for its commitment to tradition and the highest standards of racing, Keeneland hosts two annual race meets and one of the most important horse sales in the industry.

13. The Kentucky Horse Park

Lexington is home to the Kentucky Horse Park, a working horse farm and educational theme park dedicated to the history and culture of the horse. The park hosts numerous equestrian events and is a major tourist attraction in the region.

14. The World Equestrian Games

In 2010, Lexington hosted the World Equestrian Games, the first time the event was held outside of Europe. The games brought together the best riders and horses from around the world, further cementing Lexington’s reputation as a global equestrian center.

15. Lexington’s Vibrant Arts Scene

Lexington boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Lexington Opera House, built in 1886, is one of the oldest theaters in the country and hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to local productions.

16. The Largest City in Kentucky Without an Interstate

Lexington is the largest city in Kentucky that is not directly served by an interstate highway. While it’s connected by major highways like U.S. Route 60 and U.S. Route 68, there is no interstate that runs directly through the city.

17. The Big Blue Nation

Lexington is home to the University of Kentucky Wildcats, whose basketball team is one of the most successful in NCAA history. The fervor for UK basketball in Lexington and across the state is unmatched, with fans, known as the “Big Blue Nation,” showing unwavering support for their team.

18. Lexington’s Hidden Distilleries

Lexington’s role in the bourbon industry isn’t just about the big names. The city is also home to smaller, hidden distilleries that produce craft spirits, offering a more intimate look at the bourbon-making process. These distilleries often provide unique and innovative products that stand out in the crowded bourbon market.

19. The Legacy of African American Jockeys

Lexington played a significant role in the history of African American jockeys, who dominated the sport of horse racing in the 19th century. The city was home to many of these jockeys, who were among the best in the world before being excluded from the sport in the early 20th century.

20. The Charming Victorian Square

Victorian Square is a historic shopping and entertainment district in downtown Lexington. The area, housed in a series of beautifully restored 19th-century buildings, is home to shops, restaurants, and galleries, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.