By: Harrison Stiles, Summer Intern
It’s time to make the most of what’s left of the summer. I’m going to show you how to make downtown Lex your playground this season and get the most out of what it has to offer.
Shopping
A good summer wardrobe is invaluable, especially with how hot the weather has been this year. Downtown Lexington has plenty of places to help you secure a summer look that not only helps you stay cool, but look fashionable at the same time. The Pink Spider boutique and Bluetique both have beautiful, unique outfits that will help you express yourself by making you look and feel great. If you’re a guy, look no further than Howard & Miller for classy, comfortable options to keep your style up to snuff. Urban Outfitters is another great choice when it comes to stylish and functional looks that keep you cool and looking hot all at the same time.
Food & Drinks
There is no shortage of amazing places to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a few drinks around downtown, but I just want to highlight a few of my personal favorites for those nice, sunny, summer days. Local Taco is an immediate favorite, with some of the best Tex-Mex food I’ve ever had. Locally owned and sourced, eating there is not only a treat to your taste buds, but also helps invest back into the Lexington economy. With large, garage-style windows that allow the front room to be open air, in addition to a cute patio area, it is a great place to relax and enjoy a great meal.
Another personal favorite of mine is Dudley’s on Short. Dudley’s has an exquisite menu chock full of great options and a beautiful rooftop patio, it is a can’t-miss of the downtown summer experience.
Even if you aren’t looking to eat a full meal, there are lots of places to grab a drink and enjoy the sunshine. Tin Roof’s patio is a popular go to spot of mine, with a pleasant atmosphere and good drinks, as well as some lighter food options if you want to snack. Down in the distillery district, West Sixth’s beer garden offers both patio and open air seating as well. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Ethereal Brewing, which has both outdoor seating and a large garage-style door which can open up to make the inside open-air as well. With dart boards and a fun friendly environment, it’s an awesome place to chill out and enjoy a pretty day with some friends.
Parks
Downtown Lexington is peppered with nature. You get all of the convenience of a concrete city space without giving up the greenery that makes Kentucky so beautiful. Some of my personal favorites include:
Gratz Park: Home to a beautiful walking trail and located near Transylvania University’s campus, the park also has several sculptures and a gorgeous fountain.
Phoenix Park: Located adjacent to the Lexington Central Library, Phoenix Park provides some spice and variety to the area. It has a flowing fountain, a dog lot and event space. Currently there is a public piano in the area as part of a project by Lexington Parks and Recreation. So if you fancy yourself as a decent pianist or just want to swing by and hear someone who is, go check it out! (There are also pianos in Thoroughbred, Woodland and Castlewood parks as well.)
Woodland Park: Woodland has everything you could ever dream of in a park. There’s a baseball/softball field, basketball court, community center, community garden, picnic areas with tables and grills, a playground, sheltered areas, and best of all, a public pool! Need I say more?
Of course these are just a few of your options. Downtown Lexington has lots more to offer so be sure to get out there and find your favorite place to enjoy the rest of this summer.