Famed for being the ‘Horse Capital of the World’, Lexington fuses the cultural clout of a big city with the friendliness of a small Southern town. Nestled in Kentucky’s picturesque Bluegrass region, Lexington is also known as the ‘city in the park’, given the dozens of world-class horse farms which surround it. It’s not just horse-mad visitors who’ll love this city — anyone with a taste for bourbon, bluegrass music and laid-back southern style will find Lexington fascinating. Accommodation options, too, vary greatly, with everything from charming B&Bs in tranquil Versailles to swish city hotels in downtown Lexington fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, as a family or with friends, the best places to stay in Lexington and the surrounding landscape promise a characterful base from which to embark upon your adventures.

The region’s biggest annual attraction is the Kentucky Derby, taking place in nearby Louisville each May. The race is accompanied by a fabulous festival, too, and this is when you’ll see the Bluegrass region at its busiest. Come throughout the year to tour impressive horse farms, to discover the International Museum of the Horse, or to enjoy riding lessons and guided hacks through the bucolic countryside — a sure-fit hit with the kids. If riding’s not your thing, there are also myriad hiking trails and bicycle routes for outdoorsy types. The limestone cliffs of the Kentucky River Palisades are a particular highlight for walking.

Museum-goers, on the other hand, can tour the Aviation Museum of Kentucky, the Children’s Explorium or the Mary Todd Lincoln House — the childhood home of President Abraham Lincoln’s wife — amongst others. The seven-acre Lexington County Museum, with its 36 heritage buildings charting the area’s history, is a real favourite.

Finally, you’ll find distillery tours aplenty for whiskey lovers, as well as a plethora of bars and music venues where you can sip a glass of bourbon whilst listening to toe-tapping bluegrass tunes. And there’s excellent Southern fare, too! This is a deservedly popular destination — book your trip well in advance to guarantee a room at one of the best places to stay in Lexington.

The Best Places to Stay in Lexington

For a charming B&B

• Charred Oaks Inn is a charming, adults-only B&B in Versailles, close to Keeneland Racecourse. The property's four spacious rooms feature carved four-poster beds and antique furnishings with floral textiles. Old-school Southern style, complete with hearty breakfasts and a tranquil feel. Romantic.
• A Storybook Inn promises a luxurious boutique stay in one of seven guestrooms, set within a gorgeous heritage house. Families are welcome, and little ones will enjoy splashing around in the pool or playing in the gardens. The interiors are beautiful, and the farm-to-table breakfasts a real treat. Also in Versailles.
• Montgomery Inn B&B features 11 eclectic rooms with flexible options for families, in a historic Versailles residence. Stay here for traditional decor, warm Southern hospitality and generous breakfasts of homemade waffles, muffins and delicate poached eggs with all the trimmings. A classic choice.

For Contemporary Cool

• Origin Hotel is a hip Lexington spot for sociable travellers looking to kick back at the bar with craft cocktails and curated bourbons, or to tuck into sharing plates with new and old friends. Think stylish, minimalist rooms with space for groups of friends or kids — who can sleep in tents or teepees! Very cool.
• The Sire Hotel has spacious monochrome rooms clad in soothing white and gray tones, complete with luxurious linens and marble bathrooms. Foodie highlights include a glamorous bar and award-winning restaurant, 'Distilled'. A chic choice for couples, friends or families in the Gratz Park Historic District.

For art lovers

• 21C Museum Hotel is housed in what was once Lexington's Fayette National Bank building. Rooms are sleek and indulgent, whilst modern art and sculptures dot the public areas. As much an art gallery as a hotel, this is one for well-heeled art lovers. The restaurant champions local ingredients. Very trendy.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Lexington's Blue Grass Airport, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi.
• Kentucky is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 26°C and 30°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. The annual Kentucky Derby, in May, is the busiest time of year — book well in advance if you're visiting for the race and festival.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Louisville.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Kentucky.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.