Lexington, Kentucky Travel Guide
Stay:
Origin Hotel Lexington
Location : The Origin is conveniently located in between downtown Lexington (10-15 minute drive) and in the same direction as some of the best distilleries! It’s within the Summit at Fritz Farm which made a variety of shops and restaurants (including whole foods) easily walkable during our stay.
Dog Friendly : The Origin and the entire surrounding area is incredibly dog friendly! Upon arrival Cooper received a little gift bag that included a toy, treat from the local doggie bakery, bow tie, and a Pup Playbook listing local dog friendly hot spots. The “Pup Pack” includes your pet fee for the entire stay and is only $50.
Restaurant : 33 Staves is located within the Origin Hotel and was the perfect spot for a night cap.
Eat:
Eppings on East Side
Epping’s offers a sophisticated space with a passion for all things Bluegrass. Epping’s supports the local farming community housed in the newly renovated building that was once home to the historic Epping Bottleworks. The charcuterie board was unparalleled and hands down the best I have had in a long time – maybe ever! The taste experience was exquisite, and my only regret was not leaving enough room for dessert!
Charcuterie Board
brie, gouda, prosciutto
Dry Aged Bone-in
Pork Chop
Ribeye Special 
Goodfellas Pizzeria (Distillery District) – We stopped in late Friday night after checking into the hotel. It was the perfect casual spot to grab a beer and pizza for a low key evening. They serve up affordable and GIANT New York style pizza by the slice. We (along with the majority of the customers) wore sweatpants/leggings and were id’d prior to entering. Goodfellas is located right next to James E Pepper distillery, which would make it a great spot to grab a quick slice of pizza after touring as well!
*I would also recommend visiting Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge next door.
World of Beer (Fritz Farm) – Located walked distance from the Origin. We enjoy grabbing a couple beers and apps here after returning from the distilleries.
Merrick Inn – Have heard great things, but they were unfortunately closed when we had time to visit.
Great Bagel and Bakery – We ate here both Saturday and Sunday morning as it was near the Origin. This was the perfect spot to grab a quick, nourishing breakfast before exploring and visiting distilleries. Two Lexington locations.
Bourbon Trail:
In order to be considered bourbon, it has to be made in the United States. Nearly all bourbon (95%) is made in Kentucky. The climate, limestone, and infrastructure are three main players in what makes Kentucky the ideal location for distilling.
James E. Pepper
We toured James E. Pepper first thing Saturday morning, and it was the perfect introduction to the history of whiskey and bourbon in Lexington. The brand originated during the American Revolution and the Pepper family built and operated many distilleries including the current site of Woodford Reserve. The team at James E Pepper are incredibly knowledgeable and educated us on the ins and outs of distilling which helped us to fully appreciate distilleries we visited throughout the remainder of the weekend. I highly recommend kicking off your time in Lexington here as James E Pepper made Lexington distilleries what they are today.
Woodford Reserve – Woodford is located at the site that the Pepper family built. This was my second favorite tour following James E Pepper. The history, pride, and passion were all evident throughout our tour. The tasting was very detailed and educational with a great deal of focus on the pallet. This was the only distillery where we sat down for the tasting portion as well. Tastings are $15/person and tours (includes tasting) are $20 a person. The tour is well worth the $5 difference.
Wild Turkey – I recommend reserving a tour online up to 48 hours in advance. We were unable to take a tour, and there was only a history wall we were able to view.
Buffalo Trace – Buffalo Trace has always been my husband’s favorite, and I especially enjoyed viewing the Albert B Blanton Bottling Hall where Blanton’s single barrel bourbon is bottled by hand. The Ghost Tour is highly popular if you are able to book it.
Castle and Key and Four Roses – They were both closed during our time there due to coronavirus, but they are also located nearby.
Must See:
Keeneland – Keeneland has a guided tour ($20/person) or a free self guided tour where you can use a brochure to come and go as you please. I believe the self guided tour is the way to go. We did not go during racing season, but during racing season there are a wide variety behind the scenes tours available. Horse Races typically take place at Keeneland during April and November.
