A mix of modern and historical

By Malik Anderson

Imagine sitting down with a glass of whiskey while two familiar strangers tell you about their more than 200-year history. Kentucky’s Lexington and Louisville—where bourbon and history intersect—feel much like that. Despite their modern look, these two cities are rich with history and ready for your group to explore.

Resources

Visit Lexington

Marci Krueger-Sidebottom, vice president of sales and services

[email protected] | visitlex.com

Louisville Tourism

Zack Davis, CMP, vice president of destination services

[email protected] | gotolouisville.com

 

Horses on a Lexington Farm
Horses on a Lexington Farm

Historic attractions. Lexington is full of historic buildings, landmarks and tours all throughout its neighborhoods. From Civil War-era sites to African American heritage, the city is home to plenty of teachable experiences.

Food experiences. Lexington highlights food in multiple ways, from festivals and classes to special events and food tours. Classes include fun experiences like pasta-making classes, croissant classes, beer schools and classes that highlight ways to use oils and vinegars.

Bourbon bonanza. Louisville and Lexington have strong bourbon roots, roots they love to showcase to their visitors—and planners can showcase them to their attendees. Distillery tours, tastings, bourbon-themed properties and more are at your group’s email-sending fingertips.

Recreational activities. Indoors or outdoors, extreme or relaxed—take your pick from a wide selection of activities in Louisville. A hint of what you can expect: Full Throttle Adrenaline Park offers group-based activities like go-kart racing and paintball.

Horse party. Home to 450 horse farms, Lexington features plenty of opportunities to engage in horse-based fun. From watching them race at tracks like Red Mile to getting up close and personal at one of the city’s farms, the options feel near endless.

 

5 Places to Meet & Stay

  People meeting in Lewis + Louis Tasting Room

In the heart of Bourbon City, naturally, Omni Louisville offers a location to savor high-end bourbons at the Lewis + Louis Tasting Room, which is also available for private events. The property has six other dining outlets as well.

70,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 612 guest rooms

The Manchester suite

Located in Lexington’s Distillery District and seemingly inspired by it, The Manchester feels like you’re sleeping and lounging where the spirits are made, with its dark colors and wooden accents reminiscent of whiskey barrels.

9,000+ sq. ft. of meeting space; 125 guest rooms

The Galt House exterior

As Louisville’s only waterfront hotel, The Galt House Hotel, The Trademark Collection by Wyndham meeting attendees can gather next to an incredible view. These same views grace the windows of several of the property’s four restaurants.

130,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 1,310 guest rooms

Hilton Lexington Downtown

Hilton Lexington Downtown is home to a spacious, modern lobby that could give museum lobbies a run for their money. More than 150 bourbons and craft beers grace the shelves of its bar, BBM, while its restaurant, Triangle Grille, offers a fantastic view of Triangle Park. Just outside the property is quick access to Rupp Arena and Central Bank Center.

19,276 sq. ft. of meeting space; 369 guest rooms

The Campbell House Lexington ballroom

The Campbell House Lexington, Curio Collection by Hilton has recently been renovated. The property’s largest space, the 6,800-square-foot Barn, resembles a classic modern barn with an immaculate lengthwise skylight with chandeliers beneath it.

25,000+ sq. ft. of meeting space; 241 guest rooms

This article appears in the November/December 2025 issue. You can subscribe to the magazine here.