The best arts & culture spots in Lexington

“If your week needs a creative jolt, the University of Kentucky Art Museum is rolling with a smart mix of shows like Geometric Rhythms and Rauschenberg’s Reach that make you linger and think. Pop in before Aug 8 to catch the current lineup while it’s still hanging.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Ashland is a living museum with tours that unpack Henry Clay’s complex legacy, from the stories of people enslaved at Ashland to the women who shaped it. Stroll the 17-acre grounds, find outdoor exhibits, and watch for community events like Jazz on the Lawn, an easy excuse to get outside this week.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Need a crowd-pleaser for the school, company picnic, or backyard birthday this week? Mark Comley Magic Show brings a full-time pro with 50+ years of experience, custom-building shows around your group and pulling everyone into the fun with hands-on, laugh-out-loud audience participation.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Whether you're craving a big, joyful musical or want to see Broadway veterans collaborating with rising stars and local pros, The Lexington Theatre Company keeps the magic close to home. This week, peek at the current season, or jump into the Artist Development Program if the stage has been calling your name.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Rediscover the International Museum of the Horse, the world’s largest and most comprehensive museum about how horses shaped human history, from ancient empires and agriculture to modern sport. Big, brainy, and surprisingly fun... an easy win for your midweek curiosity itch.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Whether you're wrangling a kiddo's energy or your own curiosity, The Living Arts & Science Center packs a legit Farish Planetarium, art galleries, animal exhibits, and a hands-on maker space.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 1, 2026

“If you’ve walked downtown lately, you’ve probably caught the Gaia Mural flexing on brick, a bold piece that rewards a second look and a slow lap around the block. It channels PRHBTN’s "art for the masses" spirit, part of the wave that’s put 40+ murals into Lexington’s daily routine.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Whether you’re a born-and-raised Bluegrass historian or just want better small talk for the Kroger line, LexHistory tells the stories of Lexington’s rich heritage and connects the dots on how we got here. Swing by this week, soak up some context, then flex that newfound hometown lore.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Aviation Museum of Kentucky pairs historic aircraft and interactive exhibits with the Kentucky Aerospace Education Center’s camps, simulators, and STEM programs. Locals love the recurring Simulator Sunday and drone flying, a low-stress way to geek out on flight science and maybe spark a future pilot in the family.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Head over this week, whether your tiny scientist or art explorer needs an energy outlet, Lexington Children’s Museum delivers ten discovery zones packed with hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and real learning. Daily programs and year-round camps keep things fresh, and yes, you might rediscover how to play, too.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Mary Todd Lincoln House is the first historic site dedicated to a first lady, turning Lexington’s past into a sharp character study with period rooms, family portraits, and Todd/Lincoln artifacts. Make it a mini downtown adventure this week with their self-guided walking tour, then debrief over lunch nearby.”

From the Lexington newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Whether you grew up around barns or just admire gleaming tack, the American Saddlebred Museum holds the world’s largest trove of Saddlebred artifacts, trophies, and art, with special exhibitions like Untold Tails. Swing by this week to get your Bluegrass horse history fix.”

From the Lexington newsletter, August 14, 2026