Fun Spring Break Ideas In Lexington Kentucky

Did you know that Lexington, Kentucky is the horse capital of the world?

It is known for its many horse farms and race tracks, but that’s not all that Lexington has to offer.

With Spring break here, there’s no better time to visit.

From horse parks, whiskey tastings to nature hikes, we’ve got you covered with these fun spring break ideas.

Experience Nature at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Raven Run is a beautiful nature sanctuary located just outside of Lexington.

It borders the Kentucky River and offers activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. There is also the Joe Pulliam Memorial Garden that provides a stop for monarch butterflies in their migration.

This sanctuary offers more than 600 species of plants and animals besides the history of the establishment itself. The original nature preserve was created on just 256 acres in 1977 eventually expanding to 734 acres.

It’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Kentucky’s natural beauty and rich history.

Step Back in Time at Waveland Historic Site

The Waveland Historic Site is situated on ten acres and comprises a mansion, an ice-house, a barn, and a smokehouse.

Waveland mansion was completed in 1848 By Joseph Bryan, a relative of Daniel Boone.This site provides a unique glimpse into the 19th-century lifestyle.

The mansion’s architectural features include large white beams in the front of the house and high ceilings.  The estate was purchased in 1956 by the Commonwealth of Kentucky for the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture as an experimental farm, before becoming a museum in 1957.

You can go back in time and take a tour of the estate during your spring break to learn more about the history behind it.

Aviation Museum of Kentucky

The Aviation Museum hosts all types of aircraft exhibits from Bell Cobra used in the Vietnam War and F-4 Phantoms. The Museum offers a combination of classic, old and modern aviation.

It’s located on a 20,000 square foot space dedicated to the incredible history of flight. The exhibits presented include military, civilian and commercial aircraft allowing the visitors to submerge into the rich history of aircraft.

One of the best things that this museum offers is the ability to host traveling exhibits that bring photograph collections, models and artifacts providing the visitors with a consistent flow of new perspectives on history making it a great spring break activity.

Additionally, you can also visit a shop located on museum grounds where you can learn about the restoration and repair of old aircraft.

James E. Pepper Distillery

Kentucky isn’t just famous for horses and horse races. It is also known for its bourbon.

The iconic and historic James E. Pepper distillery recently re-opened its doors and has once again begun distilling whiskey.

You can stop by this historic Kentucky distillery for guided tours of the museum, distillery, and even take part in a whiskey tasting.

If you’re a true fan of Kentucky bourbon, Gold Shield offers bourbon tours that allow you to sample a variety of handcrafted bourbons and whiskey while you travel safely in luxury.

Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park aims to celebrate the history of humans’ relationship with horses, and they offer plenty of exciting ways to do so.

A ticket to the park includes admission to the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum, as well as the grounds of the working horse farm.

The park also offers horse and pony rides where you can explore the beautiful Kentucky countryside on horseback.

Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms

This is where retired thoroughbreds goto live the rest of their lives enjoying vast space, plenty of food and attention.

Unfortunately, a lot of the Kentucky-Derby horses end up in the slaughterhouse and that’s how Michael Blowen got the idea to open the farms.

Over 200 different rescued, retired racehorses live in three different locations belonging to Blowen’s organization. Schedule your tour in advance and Learn about the compassionate efforts to provide a safe haven for retired thoroughbreds. Discover how you can contribute to their well-being.

Mary Todd Lincoln House

Explore the childhood home of America’s most intriguing first lady, Mary Todd Lincoln, and gain insights into her remarkable life and times.

The Mary Todd Lincoln House is where first lady Mary Todd Lincoln grew up, from 1818 to 1839. After she moved out and met Abraham Lincoln, she brought him home to visit this house in 1847.

The house was restored in 1977 and opened as a museum to the public.  Today, the large house is used to educate visitors on the incredible life of Mary Todd Lincoln. Hourly tours are available Monday-Saturday.

Old Kentucky Chocolates

Would it really be Spring break without indulging in a couple of treats?

Old Kentucky Chocolates makes a variety of mouth-watering candies, from classic bourbon cherries and bourbon truffles to chocolate-covered grapes!

Treat yourself to a sweet experience by touring the Old Kentucky Chocolates factory, where you’ll learn how their famous bourbon cherries and truffles are made.

Embrace Nature at McConnell Springs

If you’d like to get away from the city without actually leaving it and enjoy nature, McConnell Springs is the perfect spring break idea.

The name originated from William McConnell who settled the area and established a small camp in June 1775. The group named their camp Lexington to honor one of the first battles of the American Revolution.

There are two major natural springs – The Blue Hole and the Boils, two miles of trails and a half-mile paved loop that provides access to most visitors.

Explore Contemporary Art at Institute 193

As a contemporary art gallery that aims to document the cultural landscape of the modern south, Institute 193 is the perfect stop for any art aficionado.

Founded in 2009, Institute 193 embraces that modern and groundbreaking art can emerge outside of larger metropolitan areas.  Artists are selected by the quality and relevance of their work and given exhibition opportunities.

The institute partners with many different artists in order to give them exposure while bringing unique art to the Lexington area.

Visiting Lexington

There are so many fun activities to enjoy in a historic city like Lexington. The possibilities are virtually endless, which can make planning a little overwhelming so let Gold Shield Cars take care of your transportation needs.

Use this list of spring break ideas as a guide. After all, you really can’t go wrong with horses, chocolate, whiskey and nature!

Plan Your Lexington Adventure with Gold Shield

Call us today 800-205-7330 or visit our website to help you with any of your transportation needs including tours, business conferences, airport transportation, and more while in Kentucky.