Lexington travel guide

Lexington travel guide

National Airports

The city of Lexington is served by Blue Grass Airport (LEX), which is the primary airport for the region. Blue Grass Airport is located approximately 6 miles from downtown Lexington and offers several daily flights to major cities throughout the United States. The airport has one terminal building and offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a business center.

Trains in Lexington

Unfortunately, Lexington does not have an Amtrak station or passenger train service at this time. The nearest Amtrak station to Lexington is in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, which is approximately 90 miles north of Lexington. However, there are several bus companies that provide transportation to and from Cincinnati, as well as other cities in the region. Additionally, some local tour companies offer scenic train rides through the Bluegrass region, which can be a fun way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

Buses in Lexington

Lexington has a public bus system called Lextran, which provides transportation services throughout the city and its surrounding areas. The Lextran bus system operates on several routes, with buses running every 30-60 minutes on weekdays and every 60-90 minutes on weekends. The fares for the Lextran buses vary based on the type of ticket and the length of the trip, but generally range from $1 to $2 per ride. Lextran also offers a range of discounted passes and fares for seniors, students, and people with disabilities. Additionally, there are several private bus companies that provide transportation services to and from Lexington, including Greyhound and Megabus.

How to get to Lexington

There are several ways to get to Lexington, Kentucky:

By Air: The Blue Grass Airport (LEX) is located in Lexington and offers several daily flights to major cities throughout the United States.

By Car: Lexington is located off of I-75 and I-64, which are major highways that run through the region. Visitors can easily reach Lexington by car from nearby cities such as Louisville, Cincinnati, and Nashville.

By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus are two major bus companies that offer transportation to and from Lexington.

By Train: While Lexington does not have an Amtrak station, visitors can take a train to the Cincinnati Amtrak station and then take a bus or rental car to Lexington.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Visitors can also take a taxi or use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft to get to Lexington from nearby cities or the airport.

What is the best time to travel to Lexington

The best time to travel to Lexington depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some things to consider:

Weather: Lexington has a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant. If you prefer milder weather, consider visiting in the spring or fall.

Horse Racing Season: Lexington is known for its equestrian culture, and the spring and fall months are particularly popular for horse racing. The Kentucky Derby takes place in Louisville in May, while the Keeneland Fall Meet takes place in October. If you’re interested in horse racing, consider visiting during one of these seasons.

Outdoor Activities: Lexington is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Lexington Arboretum and the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. The best time to enjoy these activities is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild.

Festivals and Events: Lexington hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Lexington Craft Beer Week in May and the Lexington Barbecue Festival in September. If you’re interested in attending these events, consider visiting during the corresponding months.

Overall, the best time to travel to Lexington depends on your interests and preferences. However, the spring and fall months tend to be the most popular among visitors due to the mild weather and abundance of outdoor activities and events.

How to get around Lexington

Here are some ways to get around Lexington:

Public Transit: The Lextran bus system operates several routes throughout the city, with buses running every 30-60 minutes on weekdays and every 60-90 minutes on weekends. The fares for the Lextran buses vary based on the type of ticket and the length of the trip, but generally range from $1 to $2 per ride.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Visitors can use ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft to get around Lexington. There are also several taxi companies that provide transportation services throughout the city.

Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of several car rental companies located at the Blue Grass Airport or in downtown Lexington. Having a car can be a convenient way to explore the surrounding area.

Bike Sharing: The city of Lexington offers a bike-sharing program called “Spin” which allows riders to rent a bike for a small fee.

Walking: Lexington’s downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, and many of the city’s attractions, such as the Lexington Opera House and the Mary Todd Lincoln House, are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a great way to explore the city’s historic and cultural attractions.

Accommodations in Lexington

Lexington offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

Hotels: Lexington has several hotels located in the downtown area, such as the Hilton Lexington/Downtown, the Hyatt Regency Lexington, and the Lexington Marriott City Center. These hotels offer a range of amenities, such as fitness centers, restaurants, and conference rooms.

Bed and Breakfasts: Lexington has several charming bed and breakfasts located in historic homes and buildings, such as the Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast and the Chateau Annette Bed & Breakfast. These accommodations offer a more intimate and personalized experience.

Vacation Rentals: Visitors can also rent a vacation home or apartment through platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo. These options can offer more space and amenities, such as kitchens and laundry facilities.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels located in and around Lexington, such as the Bluegrass Youth Hostel and the HI Lexington Hostel. These accommodations offer shared dormitory-style rooms and basic amenities.

Overall, Lexington offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and hostels depending on their needs and preferences.