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My Lexington Little Black Book: Coffee, Cocktails, & Sanity-Savers
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items This is the kind of list I wish someone handed me when I first visited here (or became a mom). From hidden gem bakeries to the best spa for a much-needed reset, these are the places I keep coming back to—because they’re that good. Curated with love, ...
Map
Sections
5
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Local Favorites
Outdoor Activities
This park is clean and lots of fun for littles. Beautiful views and lots to do! This is my fav park in Lexington.
Jacobson Park
This is the biggest farmers market in Kentucky, and one of the most popular! It has super curated finds and lots of good food and produce. If you’re looking for something to do on a Saturday morning, look no further!
Lexington Farmers' Market
Absolutely amazing trails for the whole family. This isn’t only for those who are experts at hiking (could NOT be me) this is fun for everyone!
McConnell Springs Park
This arboretum offers beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a diverse variety of trees and flowers. Absolutely gorgeous and fun for the family!
The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky
I’ve taken my Aussies here, and if you know an Aussie, you know they love to RUN! This park is awesome, clean, and spacious!
Jacobson Park Dog Park
Restaurants
One visit here and you’re a lifelong fan. They’ve got cozy vibes, wood-fired crust, and wine on tap; I’ve spent many date nights here with a slice in hand.
Pizza & Dinner Menu — Pearl's
Real-deal USDA Prime cuts that melt in your mouth; perfect quiet evening with a glass of wine (and babysitter $$$)
Malone's Hamburg
Multi-year Opentable favorite with fresh seafood and stellar service. For a brunch or date night, it never disappoints.
Carson's Food & Drink - On Main
A hidden gem with creative rolls and elevated vibes. I love the date-night mood without the downtown chaos.
Zen Sushi & Sake
A longtime comfort spot of locals. Reddit moms rave that they’ve loved it since the ’90s, and it nails fast, tasty delivery.
Cheng's Chinese Restaurant
Other Food & Drinks
A funky, colorful cafe near Transylvania U that’s been crowned Kentucky’s best coffee. I love the chill vibes and strong drip brew for powering through mama emails without the college chaos.
Third Street Stuff
Lex’s OG craft brewery with killer IPA and Oktoberfest pours; I’ve spent more afternoons here than I’ll admit, backyard brunch vibes included.
West Sixth Brewing
Bourbon-forward, multi-level cozy bar downtown; perfect Old Fashioned vibes and that rooftop view ft. Ale-8 is ❤️.
Belle's Cocktail House
Cozy neighborhood spot with solid pub food, cocktails, and a patio for summer game-watching.
The Cellar Sports Bar & Grill
Cinnamon roll heaven; a total must-try if you’re craving breakfast sugar therapy.
Futile Bakery
Arts & Entertainment
This gem at Blue Grass Airport is a local favorite, consistently named Best Museum (Gold in 2022–2024), with cool historic aircraft and interactive exhibits, perfect for a toddler’s wide-eyed wonder and a nostalgic mom moment.
Aviation Museum of Kentucky
Free admission, thoughtfully curated collections from Old Masters to contemporary works, and a peaceful campus vibe make this my happy escape when I need five minutes of quiet.
University of Kentucky Art Museum
A charming downtown historic cinema (opened 1922!) that screens indie, foreign, and classic films. It’s cozy, quirky, and perfect for a date night or solo “me time.”
Kentucky Theatre
Housed in a restored distillery warehouse, this intimate 11,000‑sq‑ft venue brings in regional and national acts, always delivering lively shows and that Distillery District energy I adore.
Manchester Music Hall
This beautifully restored 1887 theater hosts Broadway tours, ballets, operas, comedy. It has that historic charm that makes date nights feel extra special.
Lexington Opera House
Local Favorites
A heated + non-heated studio in the Warehouse Block that blends yoga, sculpt, and meditation, and gets rave reviews for its community feel and intro offers like $59 for a month of unlimited classes.
Wildfire Yoga
Clean, non-toxic, and boutique-chic with comfy vibes and high-quality gel and spa services. It has just the right touch of pampering without the hefty price tag.
Varnish
A Gold winner in “Best of Lexington” for custom coloring, cuts, extensions, and Aveda products; the downtown spot that actually gets you and your hair goals.
Dolce Hair Salon
A resort-style sanctuary inside a Marriott property offering massages, facials, and spa experiences designed to completely reset you. It has the perfect mom retreat vibes.
The Spa at Griffin Gate
A fun neighborhood gem on Tates Creek Road with fresh daily arrivals in apparel, jewelry, and gifts. It is owner-curated, inclusive of all ages, and overflowing with style without the designer markup.
Pirie Boutique