The LEXtoday team has loved following the people and businesses that make our city shine, and we’ve rounded up some of Lexington’s biggest national spotlight moments from 2025.
- Condé Nast Traveler named Lexington the No. 8 best small city in the US, according to the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The award recognized Lexington’s mark on the Kentucky Bourbon trail and eateries including Doodles, Bourbon on Rye, and Crank & Boom.
- The Manchester, a luxury hotel in Lexington’s Distillery District, earned a Michelin Key — a prestigious US hotel honor similar to a Michelin star. The guide awards one, two, or three keys; both The Manchester and Hotel Genevieve in Louisville received one key for a very special stay.
- Good Housekeeping crowned Lexington the Triple Crown of Girls’ Weekend — noting favorite girlfriend gatherings like Lexington’s Tea and Brie and candle-making workshops at Poppy and Pomelo. Keep the good times rolling and grab your girls for a happy hour drink or a brunch date at our favorite spots.
- Southern Living put the spotlight on the home of one legendary Lexingtonian, listing the Mary Todd Lincoln House as one of 8 Homes of Legendary Women. The famous First Lady was joined on the list by Zelda Fitzgerald, Ava Gardner, and others.
- Crank & Boom, a Lexington favorite craft ice cream company, has collected multiple recognitions this year, including Southern Living’s Top 20 Friendliest Places In The South, Food & Wine’s Best Dairy-Free Ice Cream Delivery, and won a Blue Ribbon at the ConeCon 2025 National Ice Cream Awards in Florida for their rich Dark Chocolate Truffle flavor.
Editor’s note: This list only represents select highlights from 2025.
