Looking to spice up your date plans? Lexington, Kentucky is full of great date activities that any couple would enjoy. Ditch the old dinner and a movie, be adventurous, and try any one of these unique date activities. Use a combination of these date ideas to make it the best date either of you have ever had. Whether it’s your first date or your one hundredth, you should always strive to do something new and fun.
Outdoor Date Ideas in Lexington
Kentucky Horse Park
It wouldn’t be a trip to Kentucky without visiting some horses, and there’s multiple ways in which you can do that. The Kentucky Horse Park is a great little outing where you can experience various types of horses. Check for special events that showcase the talents of these horses and their riders. Take a ride on a horse drawn wagon or watch horses grazing in their paddocks; you could even meet a champion thoroughbred. Take a walk through the International Museum of the Horse’s, and then take a horseback trail ride. There’s a lovely campground on the premises to make visiting that much easier. The Kentucky Horse Park is a great place for all animal lovers. Horses should definitely be part of your Lexington date plans. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park website to plan your visit.
Visit a Horse Farm
There are also many horse farms here in the bluegrass that will gladly allow you to get a sneak peek into what it’s like caring for these majestic creatures. Donamire Farm, Darby Dan Farm, and Manchester Farms are just a few of the horse farms that you can tour. Get an up-close look at what it takes to make a champion Kentucky Derby winner. You might even get jealous of their lifestyles of being pampered. There’s no lack of horse related date ideas in Lexington; this is one of the few where you can get hands on and an intimate look at the lives of horses in Kentucky.
McConnell Springs Park
Looking for a little getaway to reconnect with nature without driving miles out of the city? McConnell Springs Park is a short drive from downtown Lexington into a little oasis. Fragrant in springtime, choose any of the paths and you’ll find something around every curve. This park sits on farmland dating back to the 1800s.
You will see evidence of the past along the path including foundations for the buildings that used to be a part of the farm. A rock quarry on the premises is where large rock was cut out with hand tools to make the rock walls that you will see all over the property. These dry-stone walls were used to keep livestock inside and unwanted animals out. They are “dry” because they did not use mortar; just gravity and friction were used to keep these great walls in place.
The biggest highlight of McConnell Springs Park is the springs from which it gets its name. The Blue springs is a 15-foot-deep hole filled with beautiful blue water. Follow the stream down to the other springs and see the water bubbling up from below the surface. Take the path to the oak tree that’s over 250 years old and end by the pond where you can see fish, turtles, and birds enjoying this park made just for wildlife. While you’re connecting with nature you can connect with each other. This is one of my favorite date ideas in Lexington because nature is such a romantic setting, and you can’t go wrong with a walk through the woods.
Legacy Trail
Legacy Trail spans 12 miles from the Kentucky Horse Park to downtown Lexington. Bike, walk, run, or rollerblade along the trail to see some farms and get the fresh air we all need. This is a paved trail that has bathrooms along the way with water fountains as well as bike repair stations. Wear your sunscreen on those bright days as there is very little shade along the way. Start at any point along the trail, but I highly recommend the northern part which goes through farmland. Of all the outdoor date ideas in Lexington this is one for the more playful type. Race along the trail, stop along the way for a picnic, and enjoy the outdoors.
Jacobson Park
A beautiful park is perfect for a relaxing day out. Walk around and explore the 216 acres of gentle rolling hills. Take advantage of the large dog park divided into two, for smaller friends and larger friends to safely run free. Take photos in the pine forest. Paddle out on the reservoir with kayaks or paddle boats that you can rent. You could also bring your fishing gear and sit by the waters edge until you catch something. On Friday nights the park hosts an outdoor movie night so bring your blanket and get cozy. There are so many opportunities for date activities in Lexington’s Jacobson Park that you will want to save some of them for next time.
For the History Lovers
Waveland State Historic Site
Built in 1848, this Greek Revival home is now a part of the Kentucky State Parks system. The home of Joseph Bryan was a plantation style home producing crops such as tobacco and hemp. Guests from all over were welcomed as they passed through the area on their way out west. One guest in particular you may have heard of was Daniel Boone. Take a tour of the home, the gardens, trails, have a picnic or enjoy tea time as you explore history. Waveland is available for special events and provides great opportunities for those interested in history to get a closer look at this style of living. History lovers can enjoy a lengthy discussion of the past as they decide on a future together.
Ashland-The Henry Clay Estate
Henry Clay was an influential politician of the 1800s. He had many accomplishments in his political career and was known as the “Great Compromiser.” Known for his speaking abilities which led him to become Speaker of the House of Representatives, and to eventually run for President of the United States. He was a man of many interests and that is evident as you tour his home.
Henry Clay knew another prominent figure from the Lexington area and in Washington D.C., Mary Todd Lincoln. Living just down the road these two historic figures crossed paths on occasion. Find their connections as you take a walking tour through Lexington to places of significance for these two. Pick up your map at the Mary Todd Lincoln House or Ashland. A history themed date idea doesn’t get better than this in Lexington.
Mary Todd Lincoln House
Before becoming the wife of President Abraham Lincoln, Mary Todd Lincoln grew up in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. It seems she always had an interest in politics herself which was not always considered proper for women of that time. Born into wealth with a political father figure, Mary was offered opportunities for education with her family’s high standings in the community; quite the opposite of her future husband Abraham. Learn about Mary Todd’s upbringing and how her upbringing shaped her future as First Lady. Take a self-guided tour of Mary Todd Lincoln’s House, and visit other locations in downtown Lexington that had significance in her life. Women of history hold more significance than most people give them credit for. Show your date that you’re in the know and appreciate every woman’s contribution.
Lexington Cemetery
This may not seem like a place you would typically visit, but in the spring the Lexington Cemetery is filled with cherry blossom blooms making for a great place to take spring pictures. Not only is it a lovely display of spring color but this cemetery holds many historic graves. Relatives of Mary Todd Lincoln are buried here as well as former enslaved people, soldiers who fought in the Civil War, among others. This is one of the more unique date ideas in Lexington, but with the right partner it could be fun.
The Aviation Museum of Kentucky
At the Aviation Museum in Lexington you will get an up close look at aircraft of all types. You’ll see anything from a quadruplane, to an F-14 Tomcat. You’ll have the opportunity to climb in the cockpit for a look around and take some fun pictures. Check for upcoming special events: sometimes unique planes are on display for a limited time so don’t miss out. Geek out with a date over the display of aircraft in the Aviation Museum of Kentucky.
Arts/Entertainment for Two
Murals
There are several murals all over the city of Lexington, just take a drive in any direction and you’re bound to see two or three. With 30+ murals scattered around town, see if you can find them all. Whether you use the street art guide or wing it, this could be lots of fun. Look for the many horses around downtown, each painted with its own theme. Going on a little scavenger hunt is always a fun date idea in Lexington where there’s so much to see.
Lexington Opera House
Lexington Opera House is a great place to see a show. A small theater with some of the best plays. I saw Fiddler on the Roof there with a phenomenal cast. There’s not a bad seat in the house. Check out the shows that will be playing while you’re in the area. This intimate theater is a great date idea in Lexington. Instead of a movie, get the live action show for a more dynamic experience.
Rupp Arena
Rupp Arena is one of the largest event venues in Kentucky and there’s always big names performing there. This venue just got a huge makeover, so check out the improvements while enjoying your favorite artist perform, or by watching the Kentucky Wildcats play. It’s perfectly located downtown where you’ll find some great hotels and restaurants all within walking distance. Check out the latest events to plan your visit. If you’re looking for exciting date ideas in Lexington, Rupp Arena is the place to find all the excitement and entertainment.
Manchester Music Hall
If you’re looking for a more intimate music venue, then Manchester Music Hall is where you want to be. This venue is regularly hosting musical groups of all types, as well as other types of events. I love this venue for the rustic warehouse turned modern event space vibe. The walls are brick and give it a moody attitude when the lights are low and music is blaring through the rustic space. With a full bar and food trucks set up just outside, it’s the perfect spot for a fun night with a date or friends. Check for upcoming shows or book it for your next event.
Sports Fans Date
Southland Lanes
Southland Lanes is a family friendly bowling space with many lanes to accommodate multiple groups. They serve food and you can have a birthday party if you’d like. If you live close by, join a bowling league. Bowling is a great double date idea in Lexington. Everyone can have a good time while getting to know each other.
Lexington Ice Center and Sports Complex
Enjoy ice skating year-round with this indoor rink. They also have mini golf; and glow-in-the-dark mini golf at that. This is a great outing if you’re looking for something fun for everyone. This would make a great date location. Check out everything happening at the Lexington Ice Center for your next date idea in Lexington. During the winter, head to Triangle Park to ice skate by the wall of water fountain, see all the Christmas lights and the big Christmas tree in town.
Minor League Baseball
Lexington is host to a minor league baseball team, the Lexington Counter Clocks. Check out their schedule and catch a game while you’re in town. What’s a better date idea in Lexington for sports lovers than a baseball game? Not to mention the hotdogs and nachos on a nice spring day.
Keeneland
While in the bluegrass state you would be remiss if you didn’t attend a horse race. Keeneland is Lexington’s premier race track with races in April and October. Put on your sundress and hat as you head for the track to enjoy a day of horses, cocktails, and winning bets. If you can’t make it to a race you can always visit Keeneland for a tour, watch the morning workout, or simply enjoy the grounds – it is absolutely lovely! Keeneland is also a filming location for feature films such as Seabiscuit, Dreamer, and Secretariat. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy so put it on your date ideas in Lexington list so you’ll remember all there is to do at Keeneland.
End of the Night
There are so many great date ideas in Lexington that you should never be stumped again when asked what you want to do. These activities don’t necessarily have to be just for couples. Friends and family can also have a great time with any of the activities listed. Remember a date doesn’t have to be a certain activity like going to a movie. Find common interests and become more interesting in the process by using a unique date idea.
After all these activities you and your date are going to be famished so take them to one of the Best Restaurants in Lexington. A romantic date doesn’t have to be an expensive one or at night for that matter. Grab a treat like gelato, or fill up with a delicious breakfast before your fun filled day of activities. Save this list for later so you can always be date ready.
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