Welcome to Lexington’s #1 nightlife guide.
On this page, you’ll discover the vibrant and varied nightlife scene in Lexington. You’ll find the perfect venue for you and your preferred night out. Whether you want to go all-out clubbing or if you’d like a more laid back dinner and drinks with a view, we’ve got your covered.
Enjoy!
The United States is diverse in terms of culture, but all Americas know how to do, are drink and party. Lexington is a thriving city in the southeastern state of Kentucky. People here are warm and friendly.
Anybody who comes to Lexington falls in love with the locals. The southern soul food and nightlife of Lexington attract people to this bustling city.
What is unique about Lexington?
Known as the world’s horse capital, Lexington is an excellent mix of modern and natural elements. There is plenty of scenic beauty, horse farms, and adventurous outdoor activities to enjoy.
The Kentucky University located here attracts students from across the country and world. The young crowd gives the city a fresh, fun, and energetic vibe.
Nightlife in Lexington, Kentucky
In case you are in Lexington for business or pleasure, check out its high-spirited nightlife. The college-going crowd certainly turns up the night, transforming the main city into party heaven.
The downtown area is studded with cutting-edge bars and restaurants hosting exclusive parties. Plenty to do for everyone. There is not a single boring moment in this upcoming tourist destination in America.
Best clubs in Lexington
There are so many options when it comes to partying in Lexington first-time visitors might get overwhelmed. This is a specially designed list of the must-try places around the city to help you make the best of your time here.
Soundbar
The Soundbar is all about its loud groovy music and dance parties. The DJ mixes some hip electronic beats, plus they also host karaoke nights where you can hit the stage yourself. There are no inhibitions at this nightclub as the drinks keep flowing during late-night happy hours.
It is also LGBTQ-friendly, like most places in the city. The sexy bartenders, electric music, and the classy crowd make Soundbar a must-hit spot.
Location: 208 South Limestone, Lexington, KY 40508
Timing: Tue-Sat: 4:30 pm-12am Sun: 4:30 pm-9pm Mon: Closed
Phone: +1 859-523-6338
The Bar Complex
This spacious upscale club hosts some of the best drag shows in the city. Apart from that, you will also find live music and fun karaoke performances by customers. The crowd is a little bit older with a lot of local office goers.
On weekends there are themed events for wild party goers of Lexington. The Bar Complex is one of the oldest clubs, established in the 1980s, which still stands as one of the best.
Address: 224 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-255-1551
Website: http://www.thebarcomplex.com/
The Burl
The locals of Lexington love this trendy nightclub in the middle of the city the most. Anybody you ask will tell you how great the music, cocktails, and ambiance of the place are. It is truly a magnificent experience to enjoy a whole night of live concerts here at Burl. In addition, a good mix of tourists and young professionals in the city makes it a classy hangout spot.
Address: 375 Thompson Rd, Lexington, KY 40508, United States
Phone: +1 859-447-8166
Website: https://theburlky.com/
Best Parties for this season in Lexington
The college town is just getting started with its fun party season. After a long break, Lexington is open for special events and shows. Here are some of the most enjoyable parties to attend over the next few weeks in the city.
College night with Dj Highmax
As the name suggests, the crowd consists of mostly university kids of Lexington and nearby areas. Austin City Saloon Lexington, KY, 2350 Woodhill Dr, Lexington, United States, and the party won’t stop till 1st October. So book your tickets for this nonstop carnival today.
DJ Rice live at AZUR
Watch talented live performer DJ Rice play at AZUR restaurant & patio, 3070 Lakecrest Cir, Ste 550, Lexington, United States. The event is on 4th September from 7 pm, and tickets are available online. If you are in town, it’s an event you must not miss. AZUR will also host Dave and Jason, Dion Sanders, and Ban Lacy on the upcoming days of August and September.
Neo-soul Nights
The much-awaited event collaborating with over 900 local centers will be held on 12th September at The Grand Reserve Manchester Street, Lexington, United States. The event featuring live music, comedy, poetry will begin sharply at 7:45 Pm.
There are normal tickets, VIP tickets, and lounge tickets, all of which come with access to a wide range of food and drinks. That includes cheese and bacon-loaded burgers, chicken wings, and crab fritters.
Best bars in Lexington
There are plenty of great places to grab a drink, which makes choosing one even more confusing. However, this list will help identify some of the most sought-after bars in town.
West Main Crafting Co
Both food and alcohol are great here, so this place makes it to the top of the list. Signature concoctions on the cocktail menu include down the rabbit hole, pickled gimlet, exosphere, Rosita.
Drinks served like absinthe are quite strong, and the ambiance is perfect for dates or a friendly get-together. A good time is always guaranteed at the Crafting Co, which remains open till 12 am midnight.
Address: 135 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-618-6318
Website: https://westmain.com/
Bluegrass Tavern
This classic bar is particularly popular for its love for bourbon. The tavern is vast, with over 1000 different spirits to choose from. You can also order from the beer and cocktail menu, but everyone prefers to try their house-made bourbons.
The ambiance is friendly, rustic, and charming in an old-school fashion. Visit the Bluegrass for a relaxing and laid-back evening with friends or colleagues.
Address: 115 Cheapside, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-279-2017
Website: https://www.thebluegrasstavern.com/
Infinity Skybar and café
Want a view o the whole city of Lexington? Come to Skybar to experience drinks with an idea. Drinks mixed by the talented bartenders are fresh and tropical with floral accents. They pair perfectly with the dinner menu.
Choose from the never-ending list of cocktails, draught beer, bourbon, and whiskey options specially brought from around the globe. There is also rum and gin, and there is no drink you want but cannot find in Infinity Skybar.
Address: 150 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-446-5605
Website: https://infinityskybarcafe.com/
Best places to eat dinner in Lexington
Lexington is not just famous for the music scene but also its love of food.
Tony’s of Lexington
The restaurant features classic American dishes with an elegant and modern twist. Customers love this restaurant, and their crab cakes, rib-eye steak, and caesar salad are bestsellers. You will also find vegan and vegetarian features on their menu.
This famous spot is located on 401 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507-1640 has live music, top-notch alcohol service, and exclusive private dining. Service is impeccable as the waiters provide good recommendations for new guests.
Address: 401 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-955-8669
Website: https://tonysoflexington.com/
Merrick Inn Restaurant
People come here for business meetings, romantic dinners, and friendly gatherings. Located on
1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY 40502-3704 this fine-dining spot servers delicacies such as filet mignon, seafood nachos, fried chicken, and pork chops.
Order a sangria, martini, or bourbon on the side to pair with delicious food. If you are looking for traditional southern American food served with class and finesse, this is the place to visit.
Address: 1074 Merrick Dr, Lexington, KY 40502, United States
Phone: +1 859-269-5417
Website: https://www.themerrickinn.com/
Dudley’s on Short
A long-standing eatery in the heart of Lexington, on 259 W Short St Ste 125, is a local hotspot. The restaurant features traditional dishes in a modern way with artistic detailing. It is usually open for dinner from 5 pm to 11 pm, but do call in advance for booking.
Their carefully curated menu features pork chops, salmon, New York strip, and asparagus veloute. Chefs at this restaurant have mastered the southern cuisine over decades and perfected the dining experience.
Address: 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY 40507, United States
Phone: +1 859-252-1010
Website: http://dudleysonshort.com/
Malone’s Hamburg
Another top-notch American diner, this restaurant serves the best steaks in town. Find the popular spot on 1920 Pleasant Ridge Dr, Lexington, KY 40509-2412 open till 10 pm for lunch and dinner. You can also book a memorable evening here to host parties and conferences.
The extensive menu includes many dishes, but the rib eye, filet mignon sell most. The lemon chicken piccata and turtle cheesecake are stars of the chef’s seasonal menu.
Address: 1920 Pleasant Ridge Dr, Lexington, KY 40509, United States
Phone: +1 859-264-8023
Website: https://bluegrasshospitality.com/malones/
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano
Find some of the most authentic Italian food at Lexington Giuseppe’s. It also serves delicious seafood alongside Italian classics and remains open till 10 pm every day. According to reviews, the lobster ravioli, veal, and steak options are among the best.
In addition, the wine selection here is quite exclusive and rare, which enhances the food to another level. Taste the granchio, parmigiana, or lasagna to be instantly transported into the food lanes of Italy.
Address: 4456 Nicholasville Rd, Lexington, KY 40515, United States
Phone: +1 859-272-4269
Website: https://giuseppeslexington.com/
Things to do in Lexington on a fun night
Comedy Off Broadway
Standup comedy is a big deal in the city with lots of great upcoming talent. Josh pray will be performing on 3rd September. Enjoy some great laughs at this comedy club which also serves alcohol. However, there is no food so grab a bite wither before or after the gig.
Surely you will enjoy it quite a lot here if you haven’t seen comedy in your life this is a good place to begin.
Address: 161 Lexington Green Cir UNIT C4, Lexington, KY 40503, United States
Phone: +1 859-271-5653
Website: https://comedyoffbroadway.com/
Breakout game night
It is a new experience which is very much fun for adults of all age groups. You and your team will be taken into a game room to solve difficult puzzles, which will finally allow you to escape the room. It’s a challenging, fun, and interactive activity to be enjoyed with friends. The game room is open till 11 pm so that you can drop by after an early dinner.
Address: 309 N Ashland Ave, Lexington, KY 40502, United States
Phone: +1 859-904-9090
Website: https://breakoutgames.com/lexington
Sports bars of Lexington
For fans of sports, these bars are the perfect hangout spot. Enjoy your favorite game with good food, alcohol, and lively people. Some of the most acclaimed sports bars in the city are Winchells, Banners, and Lexlive, which also has bowling. The drinks, food, service, and ambiance are all superb. The list does not end here, and you can also check out KS bar, Shamrock, and tilted kilt in the heart of the city.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see in Lexington?
The most popular places for tourists in Lexington include the Aviation museum, Kentucky University, cemetery, horse farms, and nature sanctuary.
Is it safe to visit Lexington?
This is among the safest cities across the USA. It has extremely low crime rates, and attacks on tourists are extremely rare. You can visit anytime you want without safety concerns.
Is going out to public places allowed in Lexington?
Events and parties are being organized as covid restrictions ease in Lexington. The city is open as of now. All safety precautions are to be maintained, and guidelines are available on their tourism website.
Does Lexington have a good nightlife?
Lexington has a bustling night scene, and the downtown clubs host regular events and parties. Music and food are the two main attractions and the weekends are particularly busy for party-goers. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs one can attend during their stay.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, Lexington is one of the best cities to visit in Kentucky. The college-goers of the University of Kentucky make it a lively destination. Parties and music concerts are being organized every day now, and tourists are welcomed into the city. Lexington is ideal for a short weekend getaway. You can live at the best luxury hotels and enjoy some of the best food and nightlife the city has to offer.
