Best Things To Do In Lexington KY With Family

When it comes to planning a memorable family getaway, Lexington, Kentucky is an ideal destination. With its mix of outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, and historic charm, this vibrant city in the heart of the Bluegrass Region offers no shortage of things to do in Lexington KY with family. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or making day trips from Nashville to Lexington, KY, there’s something for everyone—from toddlers to teens and even adults.

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park

No trip to Lexington is complete without a stop at the Kentucky Horse Park. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is deeply connected to equestrian culture, and this park is the perfect place to learn about it. Families can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, meet retired champions at the Hall of Champions, and explore interactive exhibits at the International Museum of the Horse. It’s one of the top places to visit in Lexington KY with kids, especially those fascinated by horses.

Enjoy Interactive Fun at Explorium of Lexington

For younger children, the Explorium of Lexington is a must-visit. Located downtown, this interactive children’s museum is packed with educational exhibits that make learning fun. Kids can explore science, health, space, and even an interactive bubble zone. It’s perfect for rainy-day entertainment or when you’re looking for indoor, family-friendly things to do in Lexington, KY.

Explore Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

If your family loves the outdoors, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary offers a peaceful escape with over 10 miles of hiking trails through forests, meadows, and creeks. There’s also a nature center on-site and regular guided programs for kids. Pack a picnic, bring your hiking shoes, and spend the day reconnecting with nature in one of the most scenic spots in the region.

Take a Horse Farm Tour

Lexington’s horse farms are iconic, and many are open for guided tours across the USA. These tours are great for families wanting to see beautiful landscapes and learn about thoroughbred training and breeding. A few popular family-friendly farm tours include Mill Ridge Farm, Claiborne Farm, and Taylor Made Farm, where kids can see foals and barns and even pet a horse or two.

Experience the Arboretum and Children’s Garden

The University of Kentucky Arboretum features a 100-acre landscape that includes walking trails, gardens, and a Children’s Garden explicitly designed for little explorers. Water play areas, vegetable gardens, and educational stations make it one of the top places to visit in Lexington KY with kids who love nature. It’s free and perfect for sunny afternoons.

Malibu Jack’s Indoor Theme Park

Need an indoor option with lots of energy-burning potential? Head to Malibu Jack’s, an indoor family fun center featuring mini-golf, laser tag, arcade games, go-karts, and a full restaurant. It’s ideal for older kids or teens and is open year-round. It’s also one of the best options if you’re planning a day trip from Nashville to Lexington, KY, and want guaranteed fun regardless of weather.

McConnell Springs Park

Tucked away just minutes from downtown, McConnell Springs is a historic natural site where the city of Lexington was initially named. Kids can walk short trails, explore natural springs, and enjoy educational displays in the visitor center. It’s a relaxing and informative stop that’s perfect for multi-generational family outings.

Enjoy Live Entertainment at Lexington Children’s Theatre

For families with kids who love performance and storytelling, the Lexington Children’s Theatre offers live productions explicitly geared toward young audiences. Check the show schedule and plan an outing your kids won’t forget. They also offer workshops and classes throughout the year.

Tour the Mary Todd Lincoln House

Introduce your kids to American history with a visit to the Mary Todd Lincoln House, the girlhood home of Abraham Lincoln’s wife. Docent-led tours guide visitors through the life of the former First Lady in a way that’s engaging and informative for older children. It’s a unique way to mix education with sightseeing.

Picnic at Jacobson Park and Feed the Ducks

Sometimes, the best family experiences are the simplest. Jacobson Park offers open green spaces, a large playground, fishing, and the chance to feed ducks at the pond. It’s a favorite among locals and an excellent stop for families who want to relax and play outside.

Plan Your Day Trips from Nashville to Lexington KY

Living in or visiting Nashville? You’re only about a 3-hour drive from Lexington, making it an excellent option for a family day trip. Whether you want a one-day excursion or an overnight stay, you can explore horse farms, nature trails, museums, and delicious restaurants all in one weekend. Many guided tours across the USA even include Lexington as a featured destination due to its unique blend of culture, nature, and family-friendly attractions.

Tips for a Great Family Visit

• Check seasonal events: From summer music festivals to spring flower shows, Lexington hosts family-oriented events throughout the year.

• Pack layers: The weather can change quickly in Kentucky, especially in spring and fall.

• Plan for tickets: Popular places like the Horse Park or live theater may require booking.

Final Thoughts

From historic homes and horseback adventures to hands-on science museums and nature sanctuaries, there are countless things to do in Lexington KY, with family. This charming Southern city has something to offer all ages and interests. Whether you’re traveling from nearby towns or taking one of many day trips from Nashville to Lexington, KY, you’ll find that Lexington is a welcoming and enriching destination for families.

Ready to explore Lexington or other destinations with your loved ones? At Great American Tours, we specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences for families, seniors, and groups of all sizes. From guided tours across the USA to carefully curated itineraries that highlight local culture and fun, we make travel easy, fun, and enriching.