10 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Lexington, Kentucky

By Bob Sophiea

Founder and CEO of New Home Collective, established the company in 2014 with a mission to revolutionize the real estate industry.

What do I love the most about Lexington, Kentucky? As a kid driving through Lexington on family trips from Michigan to Florida, I never thought I’d call this place home. My first real visit in 2010 won me over, and by 2011, I was living here permanently. Thirteen years later, I have no regrets. Lexington has a unique charm—from its friendly people and vibrant culture to its beautiful scenery and rich history. It quickly felt like home.

Today, I’m excited to share the top 10 things I love about living in Lexington, whether you’re a local, a visitor, or considering a move here.

1. The smell of peanut butter. Let’s start with something quirky: the smell of peanut butter in the morning. Just east of downtown, there’s a Smucker’s plant where they make the famous Jif peanut butter. When the wind blows just right, it fills the entire city with a comforting, nutty aroma. Whether you’re a peanut butter fan or not, it’s hard not to smile when the air smells sweet.

2. The people. Our area is often described as where southern hospitality meets progressive spirit. The residents are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Many are passionate about horses, which is no surprise, given Lexington’s title as the horse capital of the world. There’s a strong sense of community, with locals actively involved in events and organizations.

3. The Bluegrass Airport experience. Flying in and out of Lexington’s Bluegrass Airport is convenient, with easy parking, short lines, and simple navigation. But it’s the view that makes it even more special. When taking off or landing, you can see the breathtaking panoramas of downtown and the surrounding horse farms. It’s not just an airport but also a scenic experience.

4. Downtown accessibility. No matter where you live in Lexington, downtown is always within reach—typically about 13 miles away at most. This makes exploring the city’s diverse food scene, catching live music, or attending University of Kentucky basketball games easy. Plus, public transportation and bike-friendly streets make getting around a breeze.

5. The food scene. Speaking of food, Lexington offers a diverse food scene with everything from delicious street food to fine dining. Some of my favorite spots include:

Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano: A cozy, quaint Italian restaurant

Cole’s 735 Main: Offering creative dishes in an intimate setting

Corto Lima: For modern Mexican cuisine

Blue Door Smokehouse: Serving up incredible barbecue

6. Keeneland Racetrack. This is a major attraction for horse racing enthusiasts. Keeneland has been operating since 1936. Even if you’re not a horse racing enthusiast, the stunning grounds, classic grandstands, exciting races, auctions, tours, and delicious breakfast at Track Kitchen make it a must-visit.

7. The Arboretum. The State Botanical Garden of Kentucky is a 100-acre green space showcasing native plants. It’s a beautiful walking destination with different gardens representing various Kentucky regions and an educational experience.

8. The Distillery District. Located on Manchester Street, this area blends bourbon heritage with modern entertainment. From craft breweries and live music at the Burl to the awesome pinball arcade, it’s a vibrant space that captures Lexington’s spirit.

9. Bourbon Country. Lexington is a bourbon lover’s paradise, surrounded by world-famous distilleries like Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, and Four Roses. The tours are not just about tasting but also a deep dive into the craftsmanship and tradition of America’s native spirit.

10. Red River Gorge. Just a short drive away, the Red River Gorge offers incredible outdoor adventures. With hiking trails for all skill levels, dramatic landscapes, and natural stone arches, it’s a nature lover’s dream.

Pro tip: Stop by Miguel’s Pizza afterward. It’s a great climbers’ hangout.

Bonus: Lake Cumberland. Though not in Lexington, this massive lake is just two hours away. With over 65,000 acres and 1,200 miles of shoreline, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, and even renting a houseboat for a unique vacation.

I instantly fell in love with Kentucky on my first visit, and I know you will, too. If you’re a Lexington local, I’d love to hear what you love about our city. As always, if you have any questions about Lexington or real estate, contact me at (859) 693-2379, bob@nhcnow.com, or visit my website: https://www.nhcnow.com.