Exploring Lexington’s Northside historic district

A big brick home.

There’s no shortage of homes or history in Northside. | photo courtesy of Jimmy Turek

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In case you missed it, a three-story, 4,368-sqft Queen Anne Victorian home, built in 1890, just went up for sale in the historic Northside of Lexington. Honestly, it’s gorgeous + that got us thinking — it’s about time we introduce you to one of our city’s 15+ historic districts. Let’s explore Northside.

History

The Northside Neighborhood Association lays out the history of the area here, dating back to the late 1700s + early 1800s. Many of the homes lining N. Broadway were built by prominent 19th century hemp producer, the Sutton Family. Check out this Guided Walking Tour to learn even more about these sky-skimming beauties.

The Northside historical overlay runs up N. Broadway starting at Fourth Street, extends north (away from Transy) to Elsmere Park, and west down West Sixth Street. While those are the boundaries laid out by the city’s Preservation Department, culturally, it expands further.

🏡 Digs for sale

  • Historic downtown Victorian gem, 420 W. Sixth St. | 4 BD, 3 BA | $874,900 | This house is no different than the neighborhood it’s settled in — historic charm with a modern twist. It still boasts the original hardwood floors, stain glass windows, and Rookwood tiled fireplaces but features modern upgrades throughout.

Eat + Drink

  • West Sixth, 501 W. Sixth St. | Get a tour or grab a pint from one of our city’s first breweries. Fun fact, this 100-year-old building, known as The Bread Box, used to be Rainbo Bread Factory.
  • Smithtown Seafood, 501 W. Sixth St. | Need a bite to go with your frosty beverage? Walk next door for some delicious Kentucky Proud fried catfish from Ouita Michel’s Smithtown.
  • Jefferson Street Coffee, 471 Jefferson St. | Grab a cup of joe from this local micro-roaster + pose for a picture with the famous fox mural
  • County Club, 555 Jefferson St. | This popular spot has ample patio seating + specializes in smoked meats and unique cocktails.

Parks

  • Coolavin Park, 550 W. Sixth St. | This park has all the essentials you’d expect — including a picnic area, ball fields, and courts, but the most unique feature — bike polo.

Things to do

  • Northside Nights, Castlewood Park, 201 Castlewood Dr. | Kick off your weekends with funk, soul, and R&B music every other Friday, at 6:30 p.m. from May 27–September 2.
  • Lyndon House Bed & Breakfast, 507 N. Broadway | Plan your next staycation in this 1880s Southern charmer that’s within walking distance of the best that downtown has to offer.
  • Bluegrass Distillers, 501 W. Sixth St. | Tour and taste the bluegrass with a private bourbon experience in the heart of Northside.
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