3 Best Places To See in Lexington, KY

2026 Update: The Kentucky Horse Park operates under the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and employs 78 full-time and 62 seasonal staff. It is an equine-focused destination in central Kentucky that hosts horse shows and related events throughout the year. The park includes the International Museum of the Horse, which presents a 50-million-year history of horses, and the American Saddlebred Museum, which highlights the development of the breed. Since 1978, the park has welcomed over 1 million visitors annually. Reservations can be made up to 1 year in advance. The campground is open year-round and features 260 campsites, attracting over 40,000 campers each year, along with amenities such as 1 junior Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, playgrounds, and access to nearby trails. A seasonal shuttle service operates daily from 9 am to 5 pm between the campground and visitor center. The property is part of a historic 3,000-acre land area located across Scott and Fayette Counties."

2026 Update: The Arboretum in Lexington is a public outdoor space that offers a natural setting within the city. Admission is free, and the grounds include landscaped gardens, a central garden area with seating, ponds, and water features. The Kentucky Children’s Garden operates seasonally, providing additional areas for visitors to explore. The site features both paved and wooded walking trails, suitable for casual walks, jogging, and nature observation, with some paths offering a more forest-like setting. The area is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes, and includes accessible paths for strollers and wheelchairs. Visitors can use the space for picnics, family outings, or short walks, and many plants and trees are labeled with educational information. The location experiences high visitor traffic and serves as a well-used park for recreation and outdoor activities."

2026 Update: The Aviation Museum of Kentucky was established in 1989 and opened to the public in April 1995. It includes a restoration workshop, office, library, archive, and gift shop, along with displays of restored and operational aircraft and aviation items. In 2006, it was officially recognized by the Kentucky General Assembly as the state’s aviation museum. The museum has received awards as Best Museum from 2022 to 2025 and has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and more than 140 countries. The museum offers a range of exhibits and learning programs, including hands-on activities, field trips, and summer camps that have served over 10,000 students. It focuses on sharing aviation history and providing educational experiences related to the field."