In the fall, Gov. Andy Beshear visited Lexington’s Distillery District and announced that 2022 had been a record year for tourism in Kentucky.
He made the announcement in Lexington because in 2022, tourism in Fayette County created a $1.5 billion economic impact. The industry also generated more than 11,000 jobs.
We’ve worked hard to recover from the pandemic and tourism in Lexington has not only been revived, it’s stronger than ever. This milestone is a great tribute to local and state partnerships, local attractions, and the entire community, which always welcomes visitors with true Lexington hospitality.
The investment of pandemic relief funds from the American Rescue Plan, our new state-of-the-art Central Bank Convention Center and the Breeders’ Cup were critical to VisitLEX’s ability to market and attract visitors to our great city. And we continue to build momentum with new amenities and attractions:
• The opening of the Manchester Hotel reflects the continued evolution of the Distillery District. The hotel, with its rooftop bar and Appalachian-inspired restaurant, was recently mentioned in Travel + Leisure magazine with the headline: “The ‘Horse Capital of the World’ is an Underrated American City with Beautiful Nature Trails, Craft Beer and Bourbon, and a New Luxury Hotel.” The feature story extols the unique experiences visitors can have in Lexington.
• Another entertainment space is developing not too far away. The Commons, which already includes Battle Axes and Sora Aerial Arts, will feature a brewery, a distillery, retail, restaurants, entertainment, an event venue, walking trails and a sky lounge as well as office space and short-term rentals.
• Creation of the city’s newest outdoor recreation space, Kelley Landing, will provide Lexington’s first public river access and stunning views of the Kentucky River palisades. The master planning process is underway for the new park. It will be an amazing complement to Town Branch Park, which will open in 2025 and infuse nature in downtown Lexington.
Our gorgeous landscape and unique attractions make Lexington an alluring destination—unlike any in the world. And the world is taking notice.
