I did not know what to expect when I was heading to Lexington, Kentucky. I definitely did not know the extent of Black-Owned Lexington, KY.
Beyond it being known as the Horse Capital of the World and a hub for bourbon, my assumptions were… limited. As a New Yorker, I pictured open farmland and not much else. I’m here to tell you Lexington is that perfect blend of small town ease and city energy, with horse farms just 10 to 15 minutes from downtown. And what surprised me most? The concentration of Black-owned businesses. The multi-generational feel. The inclusive vibes.
Quickly, I realized that that this city is not a day trip kind of place. It deserves a full weekend. Honestly, a long weekend. You will need the time to explore Black-owned Lexington, KY. Lexington is that girl! Check out my love letter showing why.
So if you have ever wondered:
This guide is for you.
This trip was hosted by VisitLEX and the Black Travel Alliance, but all opinions are my own.
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Creator’s Weekend by Black Travel Alliance
Start your weekend strong at Sassy Bleu Fine Southern Dining. Get the fried chicken. No debate. Since it’s brunch, go all in and order the chicken and waffles. I would come back to Lexington just to eat at Sassy Bleu’s again.
After brunch, head to Fresh Bourbon. This is more than a tasting. It is history in the making as the first Black-owned bourbon distillery in Kentucky since slavery. You will learn how to identify flavor notes and even create your own Old Fashioned.
Even if you are not a big drinker like me, this is still worth doing. For the vibe. For the aesthetic. For the experience. For the knowledge dropped!
Spend your afternoon at Greyline Station, a revitalized bus station turned marketplace. I heard amazing things about all of them, but unfortunately while visiting, they were closed. There are several Black-owned food spots here including:
Also, don’t miss Bespoken Spirits for a unique bourbon experience, including tastings and a behind the scenes look at how they craft their spirits, plus a chance to try Sable, a brand created in collaboration with actors Harold Perrineau, Malcolm D Lee, Taye Diggs, and Morris Chestnut.
If you know me, you know I will always find ice cream. Double points if its Black-owned
Head to Sav’s Gourmet Ice Cream (formerly a West African restaurant) for smooth, simple, and satisfying ice cream. Outdoor seating makes it a perfect stop.
If you are looking for nightlife or culture:
Lyric Theater Performance stage (left) + Maven Women’s Art Experience at Lyric Theater Art Gallery
Sunday brunch at V at the Vine is a must. Think rooftop vibes, good drinks, and space to actually relax. Yes, you can play spades here! I highly encourage it.
Take your time at Silver Springs Farm Eqwine and Vineyard, a farm winery located five miles from downtown Lexington, Kentucky on Leestown Road. Twenty acres of Kentucky countryside, this Black-owned winery and bourbon experience is something special. From touring the grounds to hearing their story, everything feels intentional. They have won double gold for their wines, and the views alone are worth it. They also offer accommodations on-site.
Stop at the R.C.O. Benjamin marker at the scenic Gatton Park on the Town Branch and learn the story of a Black lawyer and activist who was lynched for helping Black men register to vote in 1900. I encourage you to take a moment to not only read the story, but sit in it and pour libations to the ancestors.
Learn more about the story here
Left to right: Brunch at V at the Vine (left); R.C.O. Benjamin Marker (right)
Grab breakfast at the Manchester Hotel or Beau’s Café. The biscuit with bacon, egg, and cheese at the hotel? Elite. While I have not tried Beau’s Cafe, I am eyeing their extra fluffy pancakes.
NOTE: These are not Black-owned spots. Many businesses close on Mondays and sometimes Tuesdays in the area, so I’ve made sure to cross reference the ones I recommend for Monday.
There are 11 stops on the Kentucky African American Heritage Trail in Lexington, including African Cemetery No. 2, where it is the earliest recorded cemetery organized, owned, and managed by African Americans in the city. It is the final resting place for many Black jockeys, including Oliver Lewis, the jockey who won the inaugural Kentucky Derby in 1875; Abraham Perry, the trainer of Joe Cotton who was the winner of the Kentucky, Tennessee, Coney Island and five other derby races in 1885; and James “Soup” Perkins, who tied a record as being the youngest jockey to win the Kentucky Derby in 1895.
In addition, check out other historical sites to learn the stories of Dr. Mary Britton and Lewis & Harriet Hayden, whose lives connect Lexington to broader Black history: from Dr. Britton’s fight for healthcare access and equality to the Haydens’ daring escape from slavery and later leadership in the Underground Railroad.
You will definitely need a few hours here. Ride the horse trolley to explore the grounds, watch films, and most importantly, visit the Black heritage exhibit curated by historian Dr. Yvonne Giles called “Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf” at the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park.
If you think horse history is not Black history, this will change your perspective, especially after you hear the story of Isaac Murphy.
Yes, I would circle back to Sassy Bleu for dinner. Try the soul rolls, mac and cheese, collard greens, and do not skip on the honey glazed cornbread. Make sure to grab the yellow cake for dessert. Thank me later!
End your trip at Tee Dee’s Lounge! Live music, intimate vibes, and a true local experience. This is the kind of place that reminds you why you travel. Tee Dee Young is a local blues legend who has been performing here for 30 years. He will welcome you like family once he knows you are new to his establishment.
TIP: Arrive between 7-7:30pm to grab a good seat as it gets packed. Music typically starts at 8pm.
No, as Uber and Lyft works well, though wait times can be 10 to 15 minutes. Most rides cost around $15. If you stay at the Manchester Hotel, they offer a shuttle within a 3-mile radius. For group travel, consider Gryphon Executive Transportation, a Black-owned luxury service.
Yes. Especially during Juneteenth with events like SoulFeast Week. Outside of that, check out Lexington’s monthly events. Stay plugged in with:
Soulteenth Festival during SoulFeast Week!
Here is what DJ DMC had to say:
Manchester Hotel
Not Black-owned, but stylish, centrally located, and excellent service.
Silver Springs Farm Eqwine & Vineyard
Black-owned accommodations on a horse farm with incredible views. It is worth staying at least one night for the experience, although less centrally located. Reach out to the farm!
Photos of the Manchester Hotel
Watch on Instagram or YouTube.
This is just a starting point. Lexington is in close proximity by driving to several major cities:
Also, Lexington has direct flights to many major cities. See map below from VisitLex. For instance, it is only a 2 hour flight from NYC, where I am from!
This post is part of my 50 States Challenge, where I document my journey as a Black woman visiting all 50 states by 50. As a U.S. travel enthusiast and Black travel curator, my goal is to build the largest collection of Black-owned travel guides and reflections on traveling while Black.
Through Unlock Black Journeys: The Podcast, I am also archiving the Black experience across all 50 states, one conversation at a time.
Kentucky is the 40th State I have traveled to. I’ve traveled to Louisville, Lexington, and Covington.
Have you been to Lexington, KY? What are you most excited to do during your visit?
Because sharing is caring and it costs nothing!
Welcome to the Franny the Traveler blog! I’m Dr. Franny, a national award-winning educator, entrepreneur, author, and Black travel enthusiast on a personal mission to make every destination a Black-owned destination. As I visit all 50 states and 50 countries by age 50, this Black travel blog is a growing collection of Black-owned city guides, itineraries, travel tips, and reflections on traveling while Black for the conscious traveler. I’m so happy you’re here!
