7 Must-See Museums in Lexington
The museums in Lexington put other cities to shame.
From Fine Art to American History to Aviation and beyond, Lexington’s diverse cultural institutions have given us all kinds of informative and interesting destinations.
But with so many options, where do you even start?
We’ve put together the seven most interesting museums in Lexington for you to explore — from horse museums to boutique hotel museums to the magic of flight museums, you’re about to learn a lot.
University of Kentucky Art Museum
The permanent collection includes European, American and Non-Western artists across an enormous timespan. With over 5,000 works in their collection, this museum is a tremendous cultural gift to Lexington — and their free admission policy means everyone gets an opportunity to enjoy it.
International Museum of the Horse
Located at Kentucky Horse Park, this museum is the single most comprehensive educational experience dedicated to the horse. This beautiful and versatile animal has been a close companion of humanity for millenia, opening new possibilities that changed the course of our history.
American Saddlebred Museum
You can’t talk about Lexington without talking about race horses, and this unique museum gives you an entertaining education on the American Saddlebred. The one-of-a-kind museum presents changing exhibitions, robust permanent attractions, a children’s area and programming, movie showings and an enormous collection of artifacts.
Mary Todd Lincoln House
Mary Todd Lincoln is one of the most interesting and influential First Ladies in American history, so it only makes sense that her family home in Lexington has been converted into a learning center dedicated to her legacy. The museum gives you personal insights into this captivating yet tragic figure. Through exhibits and walking tours, the view expands to include the story of our nation during its most perilous hour.
The Living Arts & Science Center
Over the past 50 years, The Living Arts & Science Center has become an institution that’s taught countless children about the wonders of the arts and sciences. They have a particular emphasis on visitor participation and displays that grip the imagination. It’s the perfect destination if you have kids that like to learn and have fun at the same time.
21c Museum Hotel Lexington
Are you looking for a museum featuring 21st century art, a boutique hotel and a fine dining experience? Check! Check! Check! 21c Museum Hotel has over 75,000 square feet of exhibition space focused on the latest breakthroughs of contemporary art. The ever-evolving collection is available free, 24 hours a day.
Aviation Museum of Kentucky
The sky’s the limit at this informative and interactive museum experience. Walk among aviation artifacts and get up close and personal with planes from the entire history of human flight — including former Blue Angel aircraft and decommissioned military jets. And if you’re looking for activities, there are flight simulators and hands-on displays to keep you entertained (ahem… learning).
