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Whether they bring you serenity or make you sneeze, we can all appreciate Kentucky’s flowers. We’ve found the best spots around town for floral views that will have you thinking you’re among the sakura blooms of Japan.
Pro tip: Check out our guide to Lexington parks before planning your trip to see what other amenities are in store.
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
- Go: Raven Run is the hiking gem of Fayette County, boasting 10 miles of hiking trails across 734 acres overlooking the Kentucky River.
- See: Hike the Yellow Trail for premium wildflower views, such as Blue-eyed Mary, trillium, lilies, and wild hyacinth.
McConnell Springs Park
- Go: Stretching 26 acres just down the road from the Distillery District, this nature sanctuary has unique springs, bird-watching opportunities, and routine programming for all ages.
- See: Wildflowers, milkweed + Eastern Redbud trees are peppered throughout the park.
The cherry blossoms blooming at Lexington Cemetery. | Photo by @kathy77777
Lexington Cemetery
- Go: The moment you step foot into Lexington Cemetery in the heart of town, you’re welcomed with countless opportunities to frolic among the flowers. Check out historical sites such as Henry Clay’s mausoleum and a bicentennial tree that is older than the U.S. Constitution.
- See: Check out Lexington’s most famous spot for cherry blossom trees, as well as magnolias + tulips in the flower garden.
The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky
- Go: Explore 100 acres of native and horticultural plant collections.
- See: Four gardens full of roses, lavender, bee balm + wild bergamot.
Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate
- Go: Not only can you tour this historic mansion, the surrounding estate is home to 600+ trees, formal walking gardens + a peony garden — all just outside of downtown.
- See: Roses, ferns, and other florals adorn the carefully laid out formal garden, and by late April you can mosey through the dozens of peony varietals in bloom.
Floracliff Nature Sanctuary
- Go: Floracliff is a 346-acre nonprofit nature preserve that is only open for guided hikes + events.
- See: Virginia bluebells, pink lady’s slipper, bloodroot + saxifrage make this sanctuary one-of-a-kind.
