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Welcome to the Horse Capital of the World: What to do around Lexington

Calling college co-eds — this easy guide with places to eat, shop, explore, and play will help you feel like a local in your new town.

A bird's eye view of UK's campus.

With over 13,500 people employed by UK, we decided to dig around and see how much you can make working there. | Photo by Mark Cornelison

Table of Contents
Eat

It’s officially college move-in season, and we want to say “Welcome to the Horse Capital of the World” to our new arrivals at UK, BCTC, Transy — and anyone else starting a new chapter in town. Whether you grew up far away or already call Lexington home, we are so excited you’re here.

We understand that taking on the second largest city in the state can feel a bit overwhelming. We put together an ultimate City Guide to help you out in your first few weeks. Soon, you’ll be navigating around like a true Lexingtonian.

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A slice of pizza in front of a sign that says McConnell Springs.

A giant slice of pizza from Goodfella’s under $10? Sign us up. | Photo by LEXtoday

Eat

We don’t know about you, but trying to unpack and cook is a no-go. Fuel up for any meal:

A big pavilion filled with vendor booths.

Support your local farmers by visiting Tandy Park on Saturday mornings. | Photo by the LEXtoday

Shop

Find fresh food for your pantry and bring Fido along to explore unique goods for your new apartment or dorm:

A paved pathway surrounded by yellow flowers and trees

Take a break from studying by surrounding yourself with 60+ species of trees, shrubs, and flowers at UK’s Arboretum. | Photo by LEXtoday

Explore

Your world doesn’t have to stop at the edge of campus — save these off-campus study spots for when the library is packed:

A mural of country singer Dolly Parton

Take a break working from 9 to 5 to see the one-and-only Dolly Parton mural at The Kentucky Shop. | Photo by LEXtoday

Play

With one more week until football season, you’re going to need something to do besides homework. Take a peek at these:

Students — we hope this year is wonderful + you come to love Lexington as much as we do. Faithful readers — help us welcome the new arrivals by sharing this article with a friend.

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