London is widely considered the horse capital of the world.
Lexington, Kentucky’s second-largest city, is home to some of the best equestrian destinations in the world.
With 27 million tourists a year, London is the most visited city in Europe. No wonder London is at the top of many people’s travel plans.
The city was built by the Romans and has flourished for centuries. Today, London is one of the world’s most diverse cities, with a rich history and one of the world’s most unique cultures.
The City of London is the Old Town of London, but it’s actually the smallest city in England. As we know it, London encompasses a much larger metropolitan area and is home to about 9 million people.
Divided into the vibrant and distinctive areas of North, West, South, East, and central London’s commercial and tourist hub, each borough has its own recognizable district.
There is always something to see and do in London. With some of the best art, entertainment, shopping, dining, and history in the world, you’ll never get bored in London.
Kentucky is a state located in the southeastern part of the state, bounded by the Ohio River to the north, the Appalachian Mountains to the east, and the state capital, Frankfort.
Louisville, the state’s largest city, is home to the famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May.
The race is preceded by his two-week festival, which is celebrated year-round at his Derby Museum in Kentucky.
Kentucky is also known for its culture of horse racing, bourbon, moonlight, coal, auto manufacturing, tobacco, bluegrass music, college basketball, Louisville Slugger baseball bats, and Kentucky Fried Chicken.
But the fun isn’t limited to horse-related attractions. The combination of historical, artistic, and natural sites makes it an enjoyable, interesting vacation with many options to choose from.
To help you make these decisions, we’ve created this City Guide containing things to do in London (KY).
Keep reading to learn of all the juiciest fun things to do in London (KY) on your next visit.
Fun Things to Do in London (KY)
1. Arboretum
The arboretum is known as one of London’s year-round attractions. This 100-acre facility, owned by the University of Kentucky, first opened in 1991.
Themed gardens in this spot provide wildlife conservation space and fun educational opportunities.
The Arboretum also has a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year, most of which are fun for the whole family. We advise that you check out the Arboretum’s website for a calendar of events.
2. McConnell Springs
McConnell Springs is a haven of wilderness and lush greenery that graces the northern tip of London.
The name is taken from the pioneer William McConnell, who in 1775 used the area as his own camp and that of his companions.
This group arrived here early in the American Revolutionary War and named the beginnings of this settlement after the Massachusetts town, also known as Lexington.
This led to the birth of today’s city!
McConnell Springs is historically significant and adds an important air to this tranquil location.
It is also dotted with remains of dams, outbuildings, stone walls, and even dairy products. McConnell Springs is the perfect place to explore sight-seeking attractions with 4,444 ash trees, streams, two miles of hiking trails, and springs.
Things to Do in London (KY) at Night
1. Kentucky Theater
The Kentucky Theater in downtown Lexington has been around for almost a century. It was an entertainment base for the entire city, dating back to ‘Calls,’ which featured iconic shows like the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The theater is now used as a modern cinema. The area isn’t as luxurious as the economy is changing, but if you’re looking for some sightseeing, why not stop by an old movie theater this weekend for some blockbuster or indie movies?
2. Hunt Morgan House
Hunt Morgan House was built for John Wesley Hunt, the first billionaire to live west of the Allegheny Mountains.
The townhouse was built in 1814 and was originally called Hopemont What a great way to get a taste of old London. It’s one of the coolest places in town.
But where did the name of the house come from?
Well, it’s from one of the famous people living in this house. Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan was the first state resident to receive a Nobel Prize in this case.
The Hunt Morgan House does not specifically capture the life and times of this famous man but has been preserved and restored by the local authority and is open to the public.
This home has three floors perfectly furnished with antique furniture and ornaments. Several authentic artifacts belonging to the former occupants of the House are on display, and there is a Civil War Museum on the grounds because a Confederate general once lived there.
You can also admire the cantilevered staircase, portraits, and ceramics or stroll through the walled courtyards and gardens.
3. Waveland State Historic Site
Waveland State Historic Site is a scenic preserve in Old Lexington and the Plantation Age of the United States.
The red brick walls and Doric columns may be old, but they are well-preserved and give you a good idea of how great this part of London used to be.
Most of the buildings here date from the 19th century, when the landowner lived a wealthy life.
The best example is the pre-Civil War villa, in which a very opulent main house consisted of three less extravagant outbuildings, one of which housed slaves.
Waveland State Historic Site offers daily tours explaining the lives of the families who lived here and their inherited enslavement.
As you walk through the main building and adjoining buildings, the antique furnishings, ornaments, and artifacts make for a strange observation.
Special events such as Derby Day breakfasts, baseball games, costume shows, and Tuesday tea parties add to the local appeal.
When it comes to Lexington attractions, their historical significance is worth a visit.
Things to Do in London (KY) For Couples
1. Mary Todd Lincoln House
Mary Todd Lincoln House is located in downtown Kentucky’s heart of West Main Street.
Built-in charming Georgian brick, it served as a saloon and inn from 1803 to 1806.
It was in 1932 that Mary Todd’s father purchased the building for the family.
Today, Mary Todd Her Lincoln House is a preserved historic site to commemorate this gem of American history.
The first historic site to be restored for the First Lady, it’s complete with relics that will immerse you in history.
The room has many original photographs and furnishings and a beautiful outside garden, perfect for strolling.
Mary Todd Lincoln was the wife of the late President Abraham Lincoln and her 16th First Lady of America.
She has frequented the house she grew up in over the years. With 14 rooms, you can take a one-hour tour to learn more about the life and times of this influential figure.
Needless to say, Mary Todd Lincoln House is one of the best places in London (KY).
2. Keeneland
Considering that London is known for its horses, it’s no surprise that one of the attractions in downtown Ketuncky is associated with this elegant animal.
Keeneland is a professional racetrack open to the public all year round.
Founded in 1936, Keeneland is as famous as it is historic.
Take a guided tour to see the interior, see the racetrack, and even peek inside the sales facility.
Of course, participating in races is one of his most enjoyable activities in Kentucky.
But while racing is one of the main reasons you want to travel to Keeneland, the many other events and its iconic value mean there’s always something to enjoy when you visit.
Among the many additions to the Keeneland, a calendar is a huge auction of Thoroughbreds.
Some of them are among the largest in London dedicated to the culture and history of racing.
If you have children under 12, visit the Keeneland Kids Club, shop for horse-themed gifts, browse the historic Thoroughbred archives, and stroll the immaculate grounds You can
3. Kentucky Horse Park
Kentucky Horse Park is one of the top 10 attractions to visit in London. It is a fully functional horse farm designed to promote horse history and cultural awareness.
It’s not just a park; it’s full of corners where you can enjoy and experience various things!
The Horse Park is home to the Smithsonian International Horse Museum, which explores horse breeding and its history, how horses have been used in society, and how horse breeds have evolved over the years.
They house great artifacts such as the Calumet Trophy Collection and list the greatest racehorses of all time in the Hall of Champions.
Also on the grounds is the tomb of his Mon o’ War, one of his most famous thoroughbreds, with a rather ornate statue above it.
The rest of the park hosts demonstrations of old-fashioned trades such as carters, blacksmiths, and harness makers.
In the park, 4,444 horse shows are held, from representative working horses to rare breeds, and you can also ride a horse-drawn carriage.
Things to Do in London(KY) For Kids
1. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
Tucked away on the southern outskirts of the town of Kentucky, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary covers 734 acres of lush greenery.
A mix of forests, forestry, and streams meanders through charming sites, and 10 miles of hiking trails offer a great sightseeing adventure.
Sanctuary was designed to preserve the wild greenery of the Kentucky River Barrier, showcasing the importance and historical value of the land on which it was inhabited while providing a wonderful open space to roam.
Discover 19th-century settler ruins, stumble upon a bird sanctuary, and see and learn about the nature of the bluegrass wilderness.
Other things to do at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary include the Joe Pulliam Memorial Gardens, where monarch butterflies migrate.
If you are interested, you can enroll your child in a special program or join him in his weekly yoga sessions or organized runs.
Upon arrival, stop by the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary Visitor Center. Learn about the Sanctuary, its over 600 species of flora and fauna, and the facility’s history.
2. Thoroughbred Park
If you love horses, Thoroughbred Park is a place to add to your list of things to do in London, Kentucky.
This park spans 2.75 hectares, plays a very interesting role in preserving the history of London and is dedicated to thoroughbred horses and their history.
There are 13 statues of his horses throughout the park, often depicted grazing or running.
Park also has 42 plaques honoring important figures in the history of the thoroughbred industry, including President George Washington and Queen Elizabeth II.
Don’t forget to bring your camera for some great photo ops.
3. Old Kentucky Chocolate
Old Kentucky Chocolate is one of the most famous chocolate makers in the world.
The Factory offers a delicious tour facility.
These tours are one of the most fun things to do in Ketanky. This factory tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how chocolate is made here, from cooking to molding to the final packaging process.
See the meticulous craftsmanship of making delicious London treats, and sample a bar or two of chocolate right off the line.
A trip to this amazing chocolate and confectionery factory is a must for families with children and chocolate fans.
The guide’s historical background and the interesting chocolate-making process are a great combination of education and excitement.
4. A Trip to London Eye
London is incomplete without a visit to the legendary London Eye.
Originally built to celebrate the millennium, the Eye is a giant Ferris wheel with stunning city views.
At night, the Ferris wheel lights up in seasonal colors and is the centerpiece of London’s annual New Year fireworks display.
Share one of the spacious capsules with other enthusiastic visitors, or indulge yourself in a private capsule just for you and someone special.
Combine a visit to the Eye with a trip to the adjacent London Aquarium to see aquatic life worldwide, including jellyfish, seahorses, and crocodiles.
Indoor Activities to Do in London (KY)
1. Headley Whitney Museum
The Headley Whitney Museum was founded in 1968 by Barbara Whitney and George Headley of Ketanky, Kentucky.
Headley was his jewelry designer, and Whitney was a craftsman. Their handiwork is displayed throughout the museum.
The Museum’s main purpose is to showcase and commemorate the couple’s remarkable work. Whitney’s vibrios, dollhouses, miniatures, and Headley jewelry are on display.
Art innovation and talent take on an interesting meaning at the Headly Whitney Museum of American Art, where the rose garden, library, and shell cave add to its charm.
Several temporary exhibitions rotate around the museum seasonally. Workshops and events (primarily for children) also change throughout the year.
Overall, the Headley Whitney Museum is one of the most fascinating places in the city.
2. West Six Brewing
West Six Brewing is a great London Brewery.
This is a hip and very cool distillery serving great drinks and style.
Who says you have to go out for an exciting drink in the evening?
West Sixth IPA is, as the name suggests, the star attraction of West Sixth Brewing. The quad hop ingredient used is a rather interesting Kentucky staple. Nevertheless, you can check out the distillery’s taproom and homemade schnapps products.
Basically, it’s for sightseeing purposes, and it’s a good place for people who like sake and good sake.
Another interesting feature of West Sixth Brewing is the pay-it-forward forter, which tastes like cacao.
There is also a sparkling beer called Dunk Chain, which was created to commemorate the Oktoberfest brew. As a regional brewery, the house also hosts regular events for locals.
3. London (KY) Visitor Center
Not sure what to see in this Kentucky city yet? Head to the Ketanky Visitor Center! The
Information Wing is chock-full of resources for anyone visiting the area.
Visitor Information Specialists are happy to assist visitors and provide many resources and literature on attractions, accommodation, dining, and more.
Learn about the bluegrass region that surrounds the city while you’re here.
You can also stop by scenic memorabilia, such as a life-sized blue horse, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Romantic Activities to Do in London (KY)
1. Red Mile Harness Track
Red Mile Harness Track is just one of many horse-focused activities in Ketanky, Kentucky.
If you like horses, add this trip to his 1.6km oval Ketanky Trail to your list. Red Mile Harness Track is one of the world’s oldest trotting tracks.
In fact, it is the second oldest truck.
Live races occur in July, August, and September, but training occurs every morning until midnight.
Watch a simulcast race or dine at one of the onsite restaurants for other activities.
2. Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms
London (KY) has many horse attractions. Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms was just one of them and is still considered one of Kentucky’s most popular activities.
A retired Thoroughbred will spend the rest of his life here peacefully and happily.
Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms was founded by former Boston Globe critic Michael Brown as his non-profit organization in 2003.
Brown is persuaded to open a farm after learning that the horse that won the Kentucky Derby was taken to a Japanese slaughterhouse.
Unfortunately, this is the fate of many winners when they are too old to race.
Now retired, his 150+ racehorses live in three different locations affiliated with the Blowens organization, including Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms, many of which were icons of their time!
Advance reservations are required for sightseeing and guided walks. Each walk comes with a carrot treat to feed the horses.
3. Institute 193
Institute 193 is one of London’s more modern attractions. It is a contemporary art gallery showcasing some innovative cultural and artistic expressions in a way that reflects today’s Ketanky.
Unfortunately, this part of Kentucky lacks a cultural showcase, and Institute 193 fills that gap nicely.
Institute 193 is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday mornings and afternoons, with exhibits by early and mid-career artists.
The exhibit typically focuses on the Southern cultural landscape. Occasionally, you may attend additional events such as film screenings, musical performances, art talks, and more.
Cheap Things to Do in London (KY)
1. Ketuncky Cemetery
Ketanky Cemetery is the resting place of over 60,000 people and has existed for over 150 years.
Located north of downtown, it’s a great place for tourists who like spooky and melancholic places.
Admittedly, a trip to the cemetery is not a fun activity in Kentucky, but the history of the cemetery and its grounds is worth a look.
Some of the most interesting features of this cemetery include VIPs such as golfer Gay Brewer, town founder and frontier worker Levi Todd, basketball coach Adolph Rupp, Ernest P. Worrell actor Jim Burney. and Kentucky icon resting place.
It also features statues of the Confederate Soldiers Memorial, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The grounds are meticulously manicured with tulip flowers, crab apple trees, and magnolias.
A few special water features also add to the overall cemetery’s low-key, sweet feel.
You can enjoy a walk with respectful views of tombs or take a tour of the 170-acre metal plate tombs.
2. 19th Annual Kentucky His Bourbon Trail Craft Tour
Believe it or not, Ketanky and the state are known for bourbon. For this reason, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour is one of the most popular vacation spots, so it’s well worth it if you’re in town.
This tour comes with a ‘passport’ that shows you an amazing itinerary of the highlights of the Bourbon Trail.
Distilleries you’ll see along the way include Old Pogue, Corsair, Wilderness Trail Distillery, and Willett Distillery.
Not all of these places are in the city, but the tour is so much fun that it’s worth the extra mile!
3. 20th Bluegrass Festival
What to do when you visit Ketanky in early June Wondering what to do? Why not visit the Bluegrass Festival?
Probably one of the world’s biggest festivals in the genre, the Bluegrass Festival brings together all the wonders: honky-tonks, folk fiddles, and banjos.
Locals host the Bluegrass Festival in Kentucky and the rest of the state. With just one stage, lots of music and banjo workshops, and a selection of bluegrass acts from the US and beyond, it’s a fairly intimate type of festival.
The festival includes arts and crafts, a fun magic show, and a horse parade. The perfect option to host a fun and exciting musical event without overwhelming crowd pressure.
Free Things to Do in London (KY)
1. A trip to Kentucky Aviation Museum
Kentucky Aviation Museum and seeing its many exhibits is a must while in Kentucky. The 20,000-square-foot museum is dedicated to the remarkable history of
aviation is one of London’s most fascinating places for aviation enthusiasts.
The museum showcases all manner of aircraft, from the famous Bell and his Cobra helicopters used in the Vietnam War to his undeniably cool F-4 Phantom.
Combining different aircraft gives you great insight into the mix of classic, vintage, and modern aviation.
The Exhibit Hall is as comprehensive as it is expensive, with both replicas and original exhibits.
There are 4,444 militaries, civilians, and commercial aircraft on display, and the museum’s library provides an opportunity to learn about aviation and aviation history.
The Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame also lists all of the state’s key figures in the industry.
The Aviation Museum is more than just a permanent exhibition. This museum displays travel exhibitions showcasing photographic collections, artifacts, models, and more.
You can also visit the restoration and repair workshops on the museum grounds all year round. Here, visitors are taught how to repair and maintain old aircraft.
In the summer, you can also attend camps with children aged 10 to 18.
2. University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky began as an Agricultural Machinery College, opened in 1865 by John Bowman. It got its present name in 1916.
Home to the University of Kentucky Museum of Art, it features a permanent collection that rotates regularly and features many art forms, including photography, sculpture, printmaking, and painting.
In fact, the museum is said to have the best art collection in Kentucky.
Its subversive, classical, and contemporary works here make it a fascinating read.
Workshops and traveling shows are held occasionally, and admission to the permanent exhibition is free.
Other places of interest on the University campus are the Buell Armory, the Rupp Arena, and the bookstore.
Rupp Arena, home of the Kentucky Wildcats State Basketball team, is particularly interested.
2. Henry Clay Estate
Looking for more things to do in downtown Ketanky with a little history? This two-winged giant Italian-style house surrounded by greenery and woods is a testament to old Kentucky.
See how Kentucky has evolved over the years.
Due to the New Madrid earthquake of 1811, this plantation was completely rebuilt in the mid-twentieth century.
This reconstruction added Greek Revival style and opulence with a touch of European influence.
If you go here, you can walk around the grounds of Momi and Ash and see inside the house.
You should also browse the on-site Civil War memorial and learn about the Clay family and their history and origins.
2. Windy Corner Market
Windy Corner Market is on the outskirts of Kentucky, right in the heart of bluegrass county.
Stalls offer a wide variety of authentic local dishes that are 100% locally sourced.
Baked goods, fresh salads, chicken fingers, po’ boy subs, and much more to choose from.
The most delicious dishes arrive at breakfast. Hearty American country fare, Belgian-style waffles, and more are served piping hot ready to tempt your taste buds.
Visiting Windy Corner Market is one of the many fun things to do in this Kentucky city and one of the best things to do in London, especially if you like a real taste of local life.
3. Blue Door Smokehouse
If you’re a foodie, the Blue Door Smokehouse is one of the places you can’t miss while in Ketankey, Kentucky. Blue Door Smokehouse offers a delicious taste of the Deep South if you’re near the Mason-Dixon line.
The Räucherhaus is a relaxed diner with an American BBQ that holds a very high standard.
In addition to our popular smoked sausage and pulled pork, the hot browns are a must-try.
This dish is a sliced brisket sandwich with layers of tender beef, well seared around the edges and carefully balanced with pickles and onions.
Blue Door Smokehouse serves other Southern classics, and chocolate fudge brownies are always available for a sweet dessert.
If you’re in the area this weekend, it’s almost a crime not to stop by.
They open evenings only on Fridays and Saturdays, closing at 3 PM on other days.
Cool Things to Do in London(KY)
1. Jacobson Park
Jacobson Park is a great urban park for visitors and locals from London(KY). There is so much to see and something for everyone.
Fun things to do at this Kentucky park include seasonal paddle boat rentals, licensed fishing, and large ponds for other water activities.
You can find more sporting activities on open fields, volleyball nets, and basketball courts.
If you’re here with furry friends, there’s a fenced dog park. There is a playground for children. And, of course, there are covered shelters and fields where the whole family can take a walk, have a picnic, or just take a break from the bustle of the city.
What are you waiting for?
2. Monroe Mosnick Museum of Medicine and Science
Monroe Mosnick Museum of Medicine and Science is one of Ketanky’s most unique attractions.
This is one of the best places for those looking for something different and fun to travel.
Reservations are required, so please make travel arrangements in advance! The museum is named after the late chemistry professor who served at Transylvania University for 50 years.
It’s full of the 1700s and 1800’s medical instruments and instruments that look so surreal but look like science fiction today. Yet, at the time, they were the pinnacle of modern medical technology.
Many instruments have features designed to help you learn basic physics, chemistry, and biology concepts.
These features include botanical drawings and anatomical models. Many of these were purchased between 1820 and 1850 in places such as Paris and London and taken to Transylvania University for medical students.
One of his most interesting works in this museum is a life-size wax figure called Medical Venus.
This is a removable female figure cast from her 200 cadavers for tissue and organ models.
Another interesting piece is a 14-inch buffalo stomach furball.
3. World’s Largest Ceiling Clock
You didn’t know that the world’s largest ceiling clock is located in London(KY), or more specifically, in Kentucky Central Public Library.
Unusual but a must-see, this clock is a huge work of art in the building’s atrium donated by a London(KY) philanthropist.
There is a five-story Foucault pendulum with friezes depicting figures from horse racing history and his eight horsemen, all London(KY) locals.
Despite being lesser known, this ceiling clock is still considered one of London’s (KY) top attractions due to its cool and unusual construction, artistic value, and fun interpretation meanings.
Conclusion
The London Metropolis holds quite a lot of prospects for your next vacation. All you’ve got to do is flow with the tides and enjoy every one of the things to do in London.
While you are here, make sure to have the best time.
