Take a hike at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. | Photo courtesy of Lexington Parks & Recreation
We’re above freezing — for now — and we can finally see grass. Quick, get outside and decompress with some off-screen time, at one of our 100+ parks and recreational spots.
Nature parks
McConnell Springs Park, 416 Rebmann Ln.
This 26-acre hidden gem is known as a woodland wonder in the middle of an industrial area. Visitors can enjoy three water systems, a large number of native plants, and learn more about the area’s natural and cultural history at the Education Center.
The Arboretum, 500 Alumni Dr.
Recognized as Kentucky’s official botanical garden, The Arboretum features 100 acres of native and horticultural plant collections, a two-mile walking path, and the family-favorite Kentucky Children’s Garden.
Family parks
Masterson Station, 3051 Leestown Rd.
At nearly 660 acres, this park has it all — equestrian facilities, paved walking paths, a massive dog park, an amphitheater, spray ground + so much more. Plus, it’s home to some of our favorite events including Kite Fest.
Youth Wellness Wednesday | 4-6 p.m. | Dunbar Community Center | Free | Kids ages 6-14 are invited to partake in wellness activities aimed at teaching healthy eating habits, heart rate, and keeping their bodies moving with fun exercises.
Poetry at the Table | 6-8 p.m. | Kenwick Table | Price of purchase | Share your latest verse or simply sit back and enjoy this monthly performance of Lexington poets, featuring George Ella Lyon and Carrie Green.
Thursday, Feb. 6
Billy Gardell | Thursday, Feb. 6-Saturday, Feb. 8 | Times vary | Comedy Off Broadway | $35+ | See the “Bob Hearts Abishola” actor off the screen + on the stage with his grounded, down-to- earth point of view of comedy.
Friday, Feb. 7
Singo | 12:30-2 p.m. | DV8 Kitchen | Price of purchase | Start your weekend early with a midday game of “name that tune” for a chance to win prizes.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Take a Hike | 9-10:30 a.m. | McConnell Springs Park | Free | On this easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile hike Parks staff will teach you basic outdoor skills like map reading + situational awareness.
Valentine Night Market | 4-9 p.m. | Greyline Station | Price of purchase | Enjoy libations and entertainment while sipping + shopping from 50+ vendors.
Big Kahuna’s newest location in Stonewall Shopping Center on Clays Mill Road is officially open. Stop by Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. for island flavors like Hawaiin barbecue pulled pork, coconut shrimp, and sticky rice.
Eat
Speaking of new restaurants… We had one restaurant open in January + a few future openings to keep on our radar. See our roundup of all new and coming soon restaurants — and be sure to bookmark it to stay in the know.
Environment
Looking to begin your backyard composting journey? The City is here to help. Register for one of seven upcoming compost workshops which kick off Tuesday, Feb. 18. The classes are two hours, and attendees will receive a $50 voucher to purchase supplies from the online store.
Drink
Thanks to that dose of “false spring” we had on Monday, Lussi Brown has rolled out its spring menu. The limited-time-only sips include the Young Grasshopper with creme de menthe syrup + white chocolate and the Melodramatic with green yerba mate, lemon, and lavender. See what other shops are brewing.
Watch
The Manchester’s Chef Paula Endara will be one of 15 “rising star chefs” featured on Bravo’s latest season of “Top Chef.” In its 22nd season, the show was filmed in Canada with $500,000 in prize money on the line. Tune in to the premiere on Thursday, March 13.
Sports
The Lexington Legends will begin their 25th season of baseball in the Bluegrass on Friday, April 25. The opening weekend will feature highlights + promos including magnet giveaways, post-game fireworks, and a pre-game concert. Play ball.
Biz
The owners of Popcorn Paradise announced they are planning to sell the business. The gourmet popcorn brand has a storefront in the Warehouse Block where they make their ~20 funky flavors including tutti fruiti, churro, and jalapeno white cheddar. Interested buyers can email the owners for more details.
Health
Discover unparalleled speech clarity with this advanced, state-of-the-art hearing aid. Featuring a sleek, discreet German design, it ensures crystal-clear speech + sound with minimal background noise. Try the 45-day, no-risk trial.*
Shop
If your favorite part of Super Bowl Sunday is watching the commercials, we’ve got just the thing for you: commercial bingo cards. Bonus: This is the perfect prize for the winner.*
Category
Development
🏗️ Here we grow again
The awning, some windows, and walls have been removed to make room for changes coming to 325 West Main. | Photo by LEXtoday
New year, new developments. If you’ve been downtown lately, you may have noticed a few extra birds cranes in the sky. Let’s check in on a few of the developments happening around town.
325 West Main
In October 2023 we shared the hopes and dreams new owner Katie Kauffman (and our readers) had in mind for the prime corner of Main + Broadway. Formerly known as Festival Square, the space has been rebranded as 325 West Main and is expected to be open by Fall 2025.
Gatton Park on the Town Branch
If you’re not already, consider this your sign to follow Gatton Park on the Town Branch’s Instagram account. We love seeing the flyover videos of all the progress that’s been made including the playground, amphitheater, and unearthing the Town Branch Creek. The park is expected to be completed + open this year.
PKL LEX
The pickleball craze continues with the announcement of the latest sport-specific space coming to the Winchester Road area, PKL LEX. In addition to the nine cushioned courts, the business will feature a full bar + restaurant from Country Boy Brewing.
The Buy
The Buy
A great date night look to wear on Valentine’s Day. Shop five options, ordered from most casual to dressiest:
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