I have lived and worked in Lexington, Kentucky for over 30 years now. It is the 60^th largest city in the country. I moved here from Southern California’s beaches and fast paced lifestyle. The slower pace took a little getting used to, but once I did, I realized the benefits of living in this amazing part of the country.

The first thing I noticed was that this was Big Blue Nation. The fans here for the University of Kentucky Wildcats are over the top excited. Coach John Calipari loves his UK Men’s basketball program and the fans love him as well. The Lexington Herald-Leader quotes him like he is a prophet from the Bible. This is the Bible belt and even the members of the First African Baptist Church welcome him enthusiastically!

The next thing I noticed is that this called The Horse Capital of the World for a reason! The landscape is scattered with beautiful horse farms with incredible rolling hills of Bluegrass. It is rumored that the limestone in the soil makes the grass green and the horses fast! There are plenty of horse type events such as Keeneland race track and Kentucky Horse Park which is right off interstate I-75 to and has hosted the World Equestrian Games. Not to mention, a short drive up I-64 in Louisville to the Kentucky Derby every May at Churchill Downs.

Speaking of Limestone in the soil; it is also found in many natural springs which is perfect for the recipe of Kentucky’s world famous Bourbons. Blanton’s, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey and Woodford distilleries are just a few of the spots on the Bourbon Trail which is a must for Bourbon lovers. Also, Lexington, Kentucky is home to many craft beer brewers such as West 6^th Street and Country Boy. Nearby in Frankfort, there is a newly re-opened heritage brewery called Sig Luscher Brewery. It is the newest craft beer being sold in the area. I am a fan of all of those!

In addition to the beautiful horse farms that sprinkle the country-side, there are many other breathtaking landmarks. Places like the Kentucky River, Gratz Park Historic District, Hunt Morgan House, Historic Kentucky Theatre, The Headley Whitney Museum and Henry Clay Estate. 

Event centers such as Rupp Arena, Memorial Hall, Mary Todd Lincoln House, McConnell Springs, Red Mile, Waveland Historic Site, University of Kentucky Art Museum and The Lexington Opera House are all spectacular venues to visit. One of the largest international events is the National Horse Show and the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event. The power of these hunter jumpers and the riders of these events is something to behold. 

One drive around New Circle Road in this second-Largest city in Kentucky will take you about 30 minutes and give you access to Transylvania University, the University of Kentucky, Saint Joseph Hospital, Lexington Public Library and Lexington Cemetery. Just make sure you watch your speed. The Kentucky State Police like this being known as one of the safest states in the country. You can even catch a baseball game at the Lexington Legends ballpark.

If you are visiting from out of state, the Blue Grass Airport is very convenient and will greet you with Bluegrass Music and posters from politicians such as Mayor Jim Gray, Andy Barr and Ben Chandler. Also, pictures of the Arboretum and the Aviation Museum of Kentucky will entice you. Lexington is also the home to Kentucky Educational Television, and stations such as WDKY, WKYT, WLEX and WTVQ. Also, do not miss the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra.

For a town this size they also have some of the leading world-class healthcare professionals such as Justice Dental in Lexington, Ky. Dr. Justice is one of 85 dentists in the world with her credentials in cosmetic dentistry. Hospitals like Baptist Health and Saint Joseph Hospital are regional leaders as well.

All in all, this is an amazing place to live, work and play. You do have to learn words like Y’all to fit in with this southern crowd!