Budget or not, there’s plenty of ways to have fun at Keeneland. | Photo by @jim.t.photography
We’re just one week out from the 2024 Keeneland Spring Meet.
Whether you enjoy testing your luck by betting or like to keep things low-key in the tailgate, we’ve rounded up how you can have your best day at Keeneland.
Ballin’ on a budget
Tailgating at Keeneland is almost a rite of passage. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the grounds — without breaking the bank.
Eat: Grab a cooler, some hotdogs + a gas grill from your local Kroger, or a couple of deli sandwiches from Wilson’s Grocery for the perfect lunch on The Hill.
Shop: Dressing your best doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. We recommend heading to Pop’s Resale or Street Scene to get all your vintage Keeneland duds.
Tickets: The best part of The Hill? It’s free to tailgate, offers complimentary shuttle service to the Grandstand area, and has a big screen to watch the races live. For a closer view, snag a $7-$10 general admission ticket.
Don’t forget: This year, paved rows and parking spaces will require permits. The cost will be $10 on Wednesdays and Thursdays and $20 Friday-Sunday. The handicap parking + Meadow and Hill lots will remain free.
Living lavishly
If you’ve got a few extra dollars to spend, you won’t say neigh to any of these suggestions.
Eat: On-site dining at Keeneland Track Kitchen is perfect way to start off your day. Grab some breakfast and you might even get to say hay to a jockey.
Shop: Weather in Lexington can be unpredictable, so we always suggest bringing a few layers like a stylish pullover from Morton James. For sunnier days, snag a pair of sunglasses from Shady Rays to pair with a sundress from Peplum Boutique or sports coat from Logan’s of Lexington.
Tickets: Various ticket packages give you the ability to customize your day. Want a business casual atmosphere? The Phoenix Dining Room is a great option. If you want a more immersive experience, Grandstand area tickets range $15-$25.
Events
Friday, March 29
“Through the Lens: From Sublime to Subtle” | Friday, March 29-Saturday, May 4 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. | Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, 141 E. Main St., Lexington | Free | Take in this photography exhibit that explores both the ordinary and extravagant aspects of life.
Saturday, March 30
Black History Guided Walk | Saturday, March 30 | 1-2 p.m. | Charles Young Park, 215 Midland Ave., Lexington | Free | Take a guided walk to learn about local points of significance apart of Lexington’s African American Heritage — registration is encouraged.
Fall Out Boy with Jimmy Eat World | Saturday, March 30 | 6:30 p.m. | Rupp Arena, 430 West Vine St., Lexington | $40.50-$248.50 | Let your inner emo rocker out for the night for this multi-platinum selling band’s “So Much For 2(Our) Dust” tour.
Sunday, March 31
Easter Brunch | Sunday, March 31 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast, 507 N. Broadway, Lexington | $60 | Enjoy a full spring menu including an egg in a basket biscuit topped with hollandaise and crab, seasonal cocktails, and petite sweets — call for reservations.
Artique, the art store + gallery that has called LEX home for 44 years, will close its doors. Currently located in the Fayette Mall, the shop opened in 1980 in downtown Lexington and eventually Lexington Green. It’s last day will be tomorrow, where you can get shop through its end-of-business sale. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Eat
Looks like we have another addition to our food trucks roundup. Miss Milolo Cuisine will be serving up Congolese eats like jollof rice and beef kebabs beginning tomorrow. Head to Kroger at 1600 Leestown Rd., Wednesdays through Saturdays to get a taste, or find it on DoorDash. (LEX18)
Cause
MacKenzie Scott, Jeff Bezos’ ex-wife, has donated $2 million to Voices of Hope. The local nonprofit was one of 361 organizations to receive funding from the philanthropist. Voices of Hope focuses on connecting those interested in recovery to the proper resources and treatment. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Sports
We know y’all love the Legends, but have you ever thought about being one? Don your mustaches, because our baseball team is hosting open tryouts on Monday, April 15 at 10 a.m. Those interested should have at least two years of college baseball experience, played within the last four years, and must register.
Coming Soon
Cactus Jack, the brand of rapper Travis Scott, has announced a partnership that will bring specialty-designed UK gear to Lexington. The “Jack Goes Back to College” collection comes in partnership with retailers Lids and Mitchell & Ness. The curated collegiate apparel will hit the shelves starting Thursday, April 4 at select locations.
Shop
Where can you find the perfect gift for the bourbon lover in your life? The retail shop at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, of course, which features a variety of bourbon-inspired products. Swing by the store after taking a tour of the distillery or shop the full store online.*
The Word
HELOC, short for home equity line of credit, allows homeowners to tap into their home’s equity for everything from sprucing up the backyard before barbecue season hits to finally building a dream kitchen. Learn more about this option with UK Federal Credit Union.*†
†Federally insured by NCUA and Equal Housing Lender.
The Buy
The Buy 3.29.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
The handy dandy jar opener you never knew you needed. Mount it under a kitchen cabinet and easily twist open jars and bottles with one hand. Bonus: The jar opener was designed to be easy to use for older adults and those with carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis.
Can I expect to see any of my fellow 2000s emo kids at the Jimmy Eat World and Fall Out Boy concert tomorrow at Rupp Arena? I think it may be more than I bargained for...
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