Woodlawn Park KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Woodlawn Park, Kentucky.
1. Keeneland
HISTORIC HORSE RACING TRACK
Keeneland is a world-renowned thoroughbred racing facility and sales complex that offers visitors a chance to experience the rich equestrian heritage of Kentucky. Visitors can enjoy live racing in April and October, or take guided tours of the grounds throughout the year to learn about the history and tradition of horse racing. The beautifully maintained grounds and historic architecture make this a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Kentucky's horse culture.
2. Kentucky Horse Park
EQUESTRIAN THEME PARK
Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm and educational theme park dedicated to celebrating the relationship between horses and humans. The park features museums, barns with various horse breeds, and daily equine presentations that showcase different riding styles and horse breeds. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding trails, horse-drawn tours, and special events throughout the year.
3. Woodland Park
HISTORIC URBAN GREENSPACE
Woodland Park is one of the oldest parks in Lexington, located in the heart of the Aylesford neighborhood with amenities including a pool, walking paths, and playground equipment. The park hosts special events throughout the year, including the popular Woodland Art Fair and Ballet Under the Stars performances. Its convenient location places it within walking distance of locally-owned cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a perfect urban retreat.
4. Woodland Run
THRILLING ROLLER COASTER RIDE
Woodland Run, formerly known as Thunder Run, is an exhilarating roller coaster located in Kentucky Kingdom theme park. This high-thrill attraction takes riders leaping and twisting across the landscape in a thundering display of power and speed through a remote corner of Discovery Meadow. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to experience this striking one-of-a-kind ride that will leave them shocked with excitement.
5. James E. Pepper Distillery
HISTORIC BOURBON PRODUCTION
The James E. Pepper Distillery offers visitors an authentic Kentucky bourbon experience in a historic setting that dates back to 1879. Tours take guests through the production process, from grain to bottle, showcasing the craftsmanship involved in creating this iconic Kentucky spirit. The renovated distillery district surrounding the facility also features restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a comprehensive destination for food, drinks, and local culture.
6. The Arboretum
BOTANICAL GARDEN SANCTUARY
The Arboretum serves as a living laboratory and public garden showcasing Kentucky's native landscape and plant collections. Visitors can explore various themed gardens, including the Kentucky Walk featuring plants from different regions of the state, and the Home Demonstration Garden displaying practical landscaping ideas. This 100-acre sanctuary offers educational opportunities, walking paths, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year.
7. Lexington Cemetery
HISTORIC LANDSCAPED GROUNDS
Established in 1824, the Lexington Cemetery is considered one of America's most beautifully landscaped cemeteries with historical significance. The grounds feature magnificent trees, flowering shrubs, and a serene lake that create a park-like atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of nature. Notable Kentuckians are buried here, making it both a historical site and a peaceful garden for visitors to explore.
8. Rupp Arena
ICONIC BASKETBALL VENUE
Rupp Arena is a legendary sports and entertainment center that seats 23,600 spectators and serves as home to the University of Kentucky Men's Basketball team. Named after famed coach Adolph Rupp, this venue hosts not only thrilling basketball games but also concerts and special events throughout the year. The electric atmosphere during UK basketball games makes this a bucket-list destination for sports fans visiting Kentucky.
9. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
PRISTINE WILDERNESS TRAILS
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary encompasses 350 acres of protected land featuring forests, creeks, meadows, and wildflowers just outside Lexington. Visitors can don walking or hiking shoes to explore miles of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems and past historic and geological landmarks. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to observe native plants and wildlife in this preserved natural setting away from city bustle.
10. Bluegrass Distillers
CRAFT BOURBON EXPERIENCE
Bluegrass Distillers offers guided bourbon tours through scenic grounds, providing visitors with a hands-on understanding of the distilling process. The experience is complemented by tastings of their smooth, unique blue corn bourbon and other craft spirits. This smaller distillery provides a more intimate bourbon experience than some of the larger operations, allowing visitors to connect directly with the craftspeople behind the spirits.
11. Old Frankfort Pike
SCENIC HORSE FARM DRIVE
Old Frankfort Pike is a picturesque roadway that winds through some of Kentucky's most beautiful horse farm country between Lexington and Frankfort. This scenic drive allows travelers to view magnificent thoroughbred horses grazing in rolling green pastures bordered by iconic white fences and stone walls. Historic estates, centuries-old trees, and classic Kentucky landscapes make this route one of the most photographed and memorable drives in the Bluegrass region.
12. City of Woodlawn Park
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY
The City of Woodlawn Park is a charming residential community with historic significance related to the former Woodlawn Race Course. The area features the remnants of the once-grand clubhouse with thick brick walls, spacious rooms, and fireplaces with finely wrought mantelpieces. Visitors can appreciate the well-preserved architecture and learn about the horse racing heritage that once dominated this quiet Louisville suburb.
13. Kentucky Kingdom
THRILLING THEME PARK
Kentucky Kingdom is a premier theme and water park offering a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The park features numerous roller coasters, including the famous Woodland Run, as well as water rides, family attractions, and live entertainment. With both thrilling adventures and more relaxed experiences, Kentucky Kingdom provides a full day of fun for families visiting the Louisville area.
14. Discovery Meadow
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARK SECTION
Discovery Meadow is a vibrant section within Kentucky Kingdom theme park that houses several popular attractions including Woodland Run. This area is designed with family adventures in mind, featuring rides that celebrate the natural beauty and wildlife of Kentucky's woodlands. Visitors can enjoy the themed environment while experiencing various levels of thrills, from gentle rides for younger guests to more adventurous options for thrill-seekers.
15. Merchant Street Market
LOCAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Merchant Street Market offers visitors a chance to browse and purchase goods from local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors in a vibrant market setting. Shoppers can find everything from handcrafted jewelry and artwork to locally-produced foods and unique Kentucky souvenirs. The market atmosphere provides not just shopping opportunities but also a glimpse into the local culture and creative community of Louisville.