3 Best Historical Tours In Lexington

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Lexington’s historical tours offer straightforward, memorable experiences that get right to the heart of Kentucky culture. The intimate Distillery District tours stand out for their no-nonsense approach to bourbon education and local food sampling. Working Thoroughbred farm visits provide authentic encounters with Kentucky’s equestrian traditions, while downtown walking tours efficiently cover the essential landmarks and stories that shaped the city.

I’m particularly impressed by the Mary Todd Lincoln House tour for its well-researched storytelling and the Ashland Estate visit for its preserved 19th-century architecture. The Historic Downtown Food Tour earns high marks for combining local history with Kentucky flavors.

Let’s explore Lexington’s most worthwhile historical tours.

Good To Know

  • The Distillery District Food & History Tour offers a immersive experience in Lexington’s vibrant distillery district, with 5 food items and 3 alcoholic beverages.
  • The Distillery District Food, Drink, and History Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the district’s rich history, including bourbon tastings and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • The Lexington: Downtown Walking Food & History Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of the city’s vibrant food scene and rich history, with 4-5 curated plates.
  • The Bourbon & Breweries Tour allows visitors to explore Lexington’s thriving craft beverage scene, with visits to 2-3 local breweries and a historic distillery.
  • The Horse Country Tour provides an opportunity to discover the heart of Lexington’s renowned Bluegrass Region, including a visit to a working Thoroughbred horse farm.

Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington

Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington

Discover Lexington’s vibrant Distillery District on this immersive food and history tour. Over the course of 2.5 hours, you’ll savor 5 delectable food items, including 4 small plates and a dessert, while sipping on 3 alcoholic beverages like cider, bourbon, and a cocktail. This top-rated tour, recommended by 100% of past participants, provides a unique opportunity to explore the district’s rich history and thriving food scene.

The tour starts and ends at RELIC Lexington, a convenient meeting point. You’ll be part of a small group of no more than 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and transportation is also wheelchair-friendly, allowing everyone to participate. With confirmation received upon booking, you can look forward to an engaging and well-organized outing. Don’t miss this chance to learn about Lexington’s Distillery District, where history, food, and drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.

Read our full review: Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington Review
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Distillery District Food, Drink, and History Tour

Distillery District Food, Drink, and History Tour

Enjoy the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Lexington’s Distillery District on this captivating 4-hour food, drink, and history tour. Savor 3 plates of mouthwatering Kentucky farm-to-table cuisine as you explore this revitalized piece of the city’s past. Experience 2 bourbon tastings and learn about the district’s storied legacy, including the James E. Pepper Distillery, once the largest and most advanced in the US.

Pepper’s pre-Revolutionary War whiskey recipes created some of Kentucky’s finest spirits. He even convinced lawmakers to allow on-site bottling to ensure quality. Today, the Distillery District has been transformed into a lively campus filled with music, dining, and, of course, bourbon. Wander the streets, soak in the history, and indulge in the flavors that make this region so special. With English-language tours and wheelchair accessibility, this immersive experience isn’t to be missed for anyone seeking a taste of Lexington’s captivating past.

Read our full review: Distillery District Food, Drink, and History Tour Review
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Lexington: Downtown Walking Food & History Tour

Lexington: Downtown Walking Food & History Tour

Set out on a captivating 3-hour exploration of downtown Lexington’s vibrant food scene and rich history. You’ll stroll through rows of architecturally significant buildings and vibrant murals, while savoring 4-5 curated plates that showcase Kentucky’s renowned food culture. From bacon macaroni beignets to house-made beer cheese and Pittsburgh-style hangar steak, you’ll indulge in a tantalizing array of local flavors.

Along the way, you’ll learn about Lexington’s colorful characters and storied past, as your knowledgeable guide brings the city’s history to life. Witness iconic landmarks like Sculler’s Clock and The Square, and discover the unique charm of Phoenix Park. This guided walking tour covers less than a mile, making it an ideal way to learn about Lexington’s historic downtown.

With comfortable clothing and shoes recommended, and full refunds available up to 48 hours before the tour, you can confidently book your spot and embark on a delicious and enlightening journey through the heart of this Kentucky city.

Read our full review: Lexington: Downtown Walking Food & History Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to bring your pet on the tour. Most historical tours don’t allow animals for safety and preservation reasons. However, you can check with the tour operator to see if they have any exceptions or suggestions.

Do the Tours Run During Inclement Weather?

Most tours operate rain or shine, so you can enjoy the history regardless of the weather. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator beforehand to see if any changes have been made due to inclement conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?

Most tours don’t have age restrictions, but check with the tour company beforehand. Some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Be sure to ask about any age limits when booking your tour to ensure it’s suitable for your whole group.

Can I Customize the Tour to My Interests?

Absolutely! Many tour providers offer customized tours to suit your specific interests. Just let them know what you’d like to focus on, and they’ll tailor the experience to your needs. It’s a great way to make the most of your time.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?

The cancellation policy for the tours is generally pretty flexible. Most companies allow you to cancel or reschedule your tour up to 24 hours in advance without any penalties. Just be sure to check the specific policy for the tour you’re interested in.

The Sum Up

Explore Lexington’s rich history and vibrant food scene on one of these excellent tours. You’ll discover the city’s distillery district, sample delicious local cuisine, and learn fascinating stories about Lexington’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, these tours offer a unique and engaging way to experience the best of what this charming Kentucky city has to offer.