Horse history, nature trails, and historic sites offer different ways to experience Fayette. You can learn about the long relationship between people and horses, hike through meadows and forests, or explore gardens and homes with stories of their own. These themes also come together in Lexington: the city is in Fayette County, Kentucky, at the junction of Interstates 64 and 75.

Horse history and trails through the landscape

The International Museum of the Horse devotes more than 64,000 square feet of exhibition space to the history of the horse and its special relationship with people over time. Individual exhibits may be temporarily closed during renovations. The Keeneland Library offers another perspective on the subject: as a public research and reference library, it focuses on information about Thoroughbred horses. At Keeneland, visitors can also watch morning workouts right at the racetrack; check current information about availability and visiting options before your visit.

If you prefer to spend time outdoors, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a 734-acre preserve along the Kentucky River. Ten miles of trails wind through the meadows, forests, and streams typical of the inner Bluegrass region. Traces of the early 19th-century settlers can be found throughout the park. Here, landscape and history meet along the same trails.

McConnell Springs Park brings natural features together with a specific chapter in the city’s history. Its sinking artesian springs are considered unique karst features; the site is also historically significant because Lexington was named there in 1775. Nearly two miles of trails explore the park. By comparison, Raven Run offers ten miles of trails through several types of landscape, while McConnell Springs brings together historic traces and springs along a shorter route.

City history, gardens, and collections

In downtown Lexington, Town Branch Commons follows the route of the historic Town Branch. The system connects the Town Branch Trail and the Legacy Trail to form a continuous 22-mile trail system. This sets it apart both from trails within a single park and from the natural landscapes of Raven Run and McConnell Springs.

The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, is a 100-acre public garden in central Lexington. Its collection of native plants, called “Walk Across Kentucky,” is designed as a living museum. The Kentucky Children's Garden has its own two-acre garden, intended especially for children ages two to six and their families; this garden operates seasonally. Charles Young Park features a large playground and Splash!, a nature-inspired water play area. Information panels and public artworks honor Colonel Charles Young there.

Aviation history also has a place among the attractions: the Aviation Museum of Kentucky features more than 50 attractions, including modern military aircraft, classic historic planes, aircraft engines, and aviation artifacts. The collection ranges from individual objects to extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Historic homes and local insights

Waveland State Historic Site includes an original 1848 Greek Revival mansion and three outbuildings: former quarters for enslaved people, a smokehouse, and an icehouse. Visitors can stroll through the gardens; the site’s operating schedule may vary seasonally. The Mary Todd Lincoln House, meanwhile, was Mary Lincoln’s childhood home. Guided and self-guided tours are offered there. Check tour availability before your visit.

A visit to Keeneland also includes the chance to watch morning workouts right at the racetrack. For a meal, the Track Kitchen serves visitors home-style cooking in the morning; meal times may change. For a different local experience, visit the Lexington Farmers' Market in downtown on Saturday. It offers Kentucky products, including fruit, vegetables, baked goods, kombucha, flowers, jams, and local beer and wine. The markets take place on level, paved surfaces.

For travel planning: according to route information checked on September 5, 2026, Blue Grass Airport offered nonstop flights to 18 destinations. Flight routes can change. Whether you plan your trip around horse history, nature trails, gardens, or historic homes, the places and activities listed here offer a range of ways to explore.

Discover more destinations: Lexington, Clark County, Trigg County, Boyd County, Logan, Grayson County, Marion County, Thomas County.

For the broader travel overview: Kentucky.