Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Mapping Out Lexington for Out-Of-State Students

Allyson Lough and Melanie Stoeckle, Marketing Interns

As out-of-state students, we understand that you can’t wait to explore all things Kentucky. We also understand that knowing where to start in Lexington can be a little intimidating. After two full years at UK, we feel like Wildcats after investing some time and energy into exploring the heart of the BBN. Use our recommendations to experience the Commonwealth- it’s the best way to adopt the unbridled spirit of Kentuckians!

Truly Kentucky Traditions

·      The historic downtown theater specializes in showing select current and off-beat movies.
·      Movie tickets are cheaper than normal, especially during the day.
·      Dress up and catch a showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show on certain weekends.
·      Take a free tour of their production area with free samples of all their products, most importantly the bourbon chocolates.
·      Open for the months of October and April, get dressed up and watch the horse races for only a $5 admission fee. But be sure to bring more cash to place your bets on each of the races! Here’s an easy guide to placing a wager for first timers. 
·      On College Scholarship Day, held once during October and once during April, Keeneland gives away ten $1,000 scholarships to college students. It’s usually packed, but the free swag and the atmosphere makes it a must do!
·      Take a true tour of Kentucky history told through champion horses in traditional museums and on horse drawn trollies.
·      Horseback rides are also available for $25 a person, so saddle up!

Downtown Lexington
·      A picturesque place to spend time in the heart of downtown. It hosts yoga in the early mornings and ice-skating during the winter months.
·      Home of the greatest tradition in college basketball! The atmosphere of Rupp Arena is unlike any other. Camp out for Big Blue Madness tickets in October and grab your Erupption Zone tickets for a men’s game with a home court advantage. Chanting “Go Big Blue!” with 23,500 wildcats is amazing!
·      The arena hosts a variety of performers in the off-season that put on awesome shows.
·      Catch free local music April through October at the Fifth Third Pavilion. Bring a lawn chair and some money for local vendor food!
Runway Couture in the Victorian Square Shops
·      Dress like a Southern Belle with outfit inspiration from this great clothing and accessories store!

Around Town
·      Pop some tags at this local thrift shop! If you’re looking for something to jump-start a DIY project, some killer vinyl for your collection or a really awesome outfit for a themed party, this is the place to go.
·      It’s right beside Goodwill on Leestown Road if you’re in the mood for some additional thrift store shopping.
·      Champ’s has laser tag, skating and mini golf! 
·      Their best special is $2.50 per laser tag game on Tuesdays 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Check out their website for deals and the best nights to go!
·      Whether you’re a hiker, a climber or just want to explore, the Gorge is an awesome way to experience one of Kentucky’s national parks that’s only one hour from Lexington.
·      Make sure you stop in at Miguel’s Pizza at the base of the trails for a slice of pizza and a classic Ale-8-One!
·      The Legends baseball games are a fun afternoon or night out with friends.  The tickets are reasonably priced and make sure to bring cash for concessions!

Taste of Kentucky
Ale –8 Factory: The factory gives free tours and is located in Winchester, KY, not far from here!
Bourbon and Toulouse: Located down Euclid Ave, get a taste of New Orleans with their delicious menu.
Brown Hotel: Their legendary Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich is what makes this place popular.
Joe Bologna’s: Even if you’re going there for pizza, you have to try their popular breadsticks as well.
North Lime Coffee and Donuts: Follow them on Twitter (@northlimelex) for donut of the day updates!
Pazzo’s Pizza Pub: Delicious pizza and super close to campus!  Can it get any better?
Ramsey’s: If you are ever homesick and in need of a delicious meal, we suggest hopping over to Ramsey’s on E High Street for some Southern home cooking.  Don’t forget about their famous Missy’s pie for dessert!
Sav’s Grill: Located right on S Limestone, this unique restaurant is also very welcoming.  Sav, originally from West Africa, is one of the friendliest restaurant owners you’ll meet and a great chef.  He makes all of the meals himself!
Tolly Ho: Be sure to go after midnight and tell them it’s your first time!


We hope that our compiled list helps to give you a great start in Lexington.  Check out our Lexington Local Pinterest board for more ways to experience the best of the Bluegrass!

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