Lexington has been called “the city in the park” because of its location at the center of hundreds of beautiful, park-like horse farms. But the nickname also seems an apt description of the cosmopolitan yet casual atmosphere of the downtown area.
Lexington offers a charming blend of big-city amenities and small-town friendliness. Before, after and between meeting sessions at the modern Lexington Center convention complex, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Beautiful historic office buildings, churches, and homes; many of Lexington’s finest restaurants, specialty shops and galleries; and major performance and sports arenas are within easy and safe walking distance.
Lexington Convention Center
As the region’s most popular multi-use entertainment, convention, and shopping complex, Lexington Center stands ready to meet the demands of even the most discerning presenter. Indeed, its location at the intersection of Interstates 64 and 75 and within a day’s drive of 75% of the US population, conveniently places Lexington Center at the heart of one of America’s most traveled crossroads. And one that affords touring casts and crews, meeting planners, exhibitors and visitors alike the warm hospitality for which Lexington and Kentucky are so famous.
Lexington Convention Center has 130,000 sq. ft. of elegant and versatile banquet, exhibition and meeting space. The Convention Center and two attached convention hotels occupy a common corner, within easy walking distances to shopping, dining and entertaining destinations.
Lexington Opera House
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Lexington Opera House is known to be one of the premiere performing arts centers in the region. Originally constructed in 1886 after a fire destroyed the original theatre located on the corner of Main and Broadway, the “new” Opera House, designed by Oscar Cobb, opened it’s doors on July 19, 1887 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most well-designed and well-equipped theaters in the nation. The Opera House has played host to the most famous stage personalities of the 1900s, including Al Jolson, W.C. Fields, Will Rogers, Harry Houdini and many others.
Current programming at the Opera House offers something for everyone: ballet, opera, children’s productions, family shows, comedy, concerts, and professional national Broadway tours!