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History
The city’s oldest neighborhood
The archway of this entrance is a replica, but the attached gates are the original from the 1870s. | Photo via @sjhorowitz
When you see the pink + blue houses, you know you’ve entered what is known as Lexington’s oldest neighborhood. Gratz Park is more than just a great photo-op or community space — we’re taking you back 240+ years to the beginning.
Establishing Gratz Park in the 1800s
The neighborhood’s most notable resident, Benjamin Gratz, moved in on the corner of Mill + New Streets in 1824. As an early businessman, his legacy includes being a founder of Lexington’s first public library and the Lexington and Ohio Railway.
During the Civil War, the area was known for being a parade ground and bivouac shelter for Union + Confederate troops. Pro tip: Head to the Hunt Morgan House on North Mill Street to check out the Alexander T. Hunt Civil War Museum.
After the war, the grounds were left unattended — until Benjamin Gratz’ son, Howard, sold subscriptions of the Kentucky Gazette to fund improvements from 1875 to 1876. This initiative was what helped fence in the area and even brought the iconic arches (donated in 1879).
On Sept. 4, 1876, the site was named Centennial Park — but was later changed to Benjamin Gratz Park. Howard Gratz continued to care for the neighborhood, and can be the one to thank for many of the park’s tulip poplars. The Gratz family occupied their home until 1984.
Seasons may come and go, but the history remains the same.
Gratz Park could have looked a lot different than it does now. In 1909, sons and successors of Frederick Law Olmsted — known as being the founder of American landscape architecture — created a vision for the park based on Olmsted’s philosophies adopted across the nation.
Playgrounds, an arbor + gazebo style structure, and French-styled parterre garden were planned for the park but never implemented. However, in 1917, an agreement between Anderson Gratz and the city guaranteed development couldn’t happen within the green space — sparked by the development of the Carnegie Library.
Now, there’s still a lot of history to uncover inside the halls of the homes that surround the park — all designed in different styles, from Greek Revival to Victorian-era. There’s even some well hidden secrets, too. In 2012, homeowners opened up their private gardens for the first time, allowing residents to take part in an exclusive tour through history.
But it’s not just for kids. Adults can get creative too with the Basic Ceramics Summer Camp, a beginner-friendly class covering the fundamentals of working with clay in a fun, relaxed studio setting July 20 to July 24.
Do you ever think to yourself, “That would make a great children’s book?” The Carnegie Center is offering a ~7-week workshop on Writing Kids’ Books, starting Monday, March 30. The course will be led by bestselling author Marcia Thornton Jones + you can still register.
Real Estate
38 renovated affordable senior living apartments recently opened at downtown’s Woodland Christian Church. All units are currently filled — but you can take a video tour here. (The Herald-Leader)
Community
Lexington ComicCon & Toy Convention is going on now through Sunday, March 29. Tickets are still available.
State
Did you know we don’t currently have an official state dog breed? That could soon change — the Treeing Walker Coonhound originated in Kentucky in the 19th century. (LEX 18)
Eat
Okay, Lexington: The Burger Mania 2026 Champion is on the horizon. Round Three is here, and participating restaurants are competing for a spot in the final matchup. Psst…The winner will be announced Wednesday, April 1.*
The Word
Can you pronounce “Tyewhoppety?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. That’s the hardest place to pronounce in all of Kentucky, according to a study by Preply. Around Lexington, our street names are typically easier to say, and have plenty of history behind them.
Travel
Did you know LEXtoday has dozens of sister newsletters across the US? Each one delivers local news, restaurant picks, and hidden gems just like we do. Next time you’re headed out of town, find your destination’s newsletter and explore our recs to plan your trip.
Wellness
This FDA-registered vibrator is recommended by doctors because it’s backed by science to boost arousal and support natural lubrication, thanks to its bendable shape designed to stimulate all the right spots. Even better? Save 50% during MV.Health’s sitewide sale.*
Health
If constant food noise and hunger are wearing you down, MEDVi offers clinician-guided GLP-1 care built for real life. Your dosage is tailored just for you, with clear guidance so you’re never left guessing. See if you qualify and start your introductory month for $179.‡*
Number
$1.50. That’s the price of Costco’s iconic hot dog — a tasty shopping staple and a viral deal in its own right. But it’s far from the only bargain worth knowing about. From overlooked perks to smart in-store strategies, here are 10 lesser-known hacks every Costco shopper should have in their back pocket.*
The Buy
It’s lightning deal time. Snap up these top-rated items, up to 55% off today only in Amazon’s Big Spring Sale.
⚡ Save 33% on this No. 1 best-selling women’s sports bra, built to provide support and cushioning during high-impact exercise.
⚡ This cute swimsuit cover-up is 20% off this morning, the lowest price of the year so far — grab it in a tropical print or stick to timeless black or navy.
⚡ Refresh bedding with 38% off cooling bamboo sheets, made with a luxurious, high-end feel that stays cool to the touch on hot nights.
⚡ Restock your bra drawer with 55% off this comfortable wireless bra, great for everyday wear.
⚡ This top-rated men’s knit polo is 27% off and will earn you style points at spring + summer occasions.
Invented in Belgium in 1932, Biscoff cookies are reaching new heights in popularity. Check out the Biscoff lattes at Char on Ashland + Shake n Crave.
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‡Prescription-only GLP-1 treatment requires evaluation by a licensed U.S. provider. Treatment is provided only if medically appropriate; not all patients qualify. Results vary. Compounded medications, if prescribed, are prepared by licensed U.S. pharmacies and are not FDA-approved as finished products. See program terms for details.
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