Céad Míle Fáilte! Or in other words, One Hundred Thousand Welcomes in Gaelic, the native language of Ireland, to our beautiful bluegrass state. Travel + Leisure recently recommended Lexington, Kentucky as a destination for travelers wanting the charm of Ireland right here in the United States. Our green rolling fields, flourishing Irish community, and abundance of both horses and bourbon distilleries makes Lexington, Kentucky feel just like the Emerald Isle. Whether you prefer a quiet afternoon in the countryside, or the liveliness atmosphere of a bustling Irish pub, Lexington has something for you!
It’s no surprise that Ireland and Kentucky alike are known for our horses and the generations of successful horsemen that care for them each day. Our green pastures lie on limestone rock that enriches our soil with calcium and phosphorus, producing some of the greatest racehorses in the world. The Byerley Turk, one of the three foundational stallions of the Thoroughbred, called Ireland home before landing on English soil in the 1700s.
Coolmore at Ashford Stud
Coolmore Stud, originating as Ballydoyle Racing Stable in Co. Tipperary, Ireland, has now expanded to be the biggest and best thoroughbred breeding operation in the world. One of their leading sires No Nay Never, named after an old Irish folk song, was bred in Kentucky and later consigned by Hunter Valley Farm and Paramount Sales, both Irish-led top consignors in North America. He now stands at Coolmore Ireland and has produced 57 stakes winners since 2018. You can visit Coolmore and their amazing stallions at their Kentucky location, Ashford Stud, which is home to not only one but two Triple Crown winners! Their rolling fields and natural landscape will transport you to the little town of Fethard, the home of Coolmore in Ireland.
Godolphin
Godolphin, named after another original sire of the thoroughbred, is one of the most prominent breeding and racing operations in the world and is home to the Darley Stallions, named after the third founding sire of the breed. Darley stallions can be found in Ireland at Kildangan Stud, and here in Lexington, at the breathtaking Jonabell Farm. Godolphin also has a beautiful 1500 acres called Gainsborough Farm, where dozens of foals are born and raised each year. Each farm is home to some of the most successful horses in the industry, including Kentucky Derby winners Nyquist and Street Sense at Jonabell Farm, and Hall of Fame member Ashado at Gainsborough Farm.
Scenic Byway, Old Frankfort Pike
A favorite pastime of Lexington locals and visitors alike is taking the KY Scenic Byway down Old Frankfort Pike. This 17-mile historic trail leads from Lexington to Frankfort and is lined with national historic towns, flourishing natural scenery, and rolling hills filled with Thoroughbreds as far as the eye can see. Starting near the Distillery District, this drive will take you along some of Kentucky’s most beautiful land, and passes the must-see Secretariat statue and the historic dry-laid limestone fences built by Irish immigrants in the 1800s. You’ll even pass a couple of Horse Country members while traversing Old Frankfort Pike including Airdrie Stud, Darby Dan Farm, Stonestreet Farm and Three Chimneys Farm.
Now for a few shops, eateries and more in Lexington that will transport you to the Emerald Isle…
McCarthy’s Irish Bar
McCarthy’s Irish Bar first opened its doors just under 28 years ago for locals and Irish lads alike. Located in the heart of downtown, Lexington, you will be transported to Temple Bar, a famous pub in Dublin. In McCarthy’s, you’ll find industry mementos adorning every wall, Irish natives singing traditional tunes, and the best pint of Guiness in Lexington. Be sure to try out a crowd favorite, the Irish Car Bomb, made with Irish whiskey and cream.
The Jockey
Feeling hungry? The Jockey is an Irish-owned gastropub located in a historic building alongside Tandy Park in Lexington. Here you can savor a slice of Rise Up! Pizza while toasting one of their craft cocktails, which are named in honor of the world’s greatest racing legends. The Jockey frequently hosts community events and has a variety of local and international beers for everyone to enjoy.
Fáilte Irish Shop
A personal favorite of mine, Fáilte is your one-stop-shop for all Irish goods. Lisa Betz, a native of Dublin, has been importing Irish fine goods for over 20 years. Neighboring McCarthy’s, you can pop in for traditional rashers and sausages, Cadbury chocolate, Barry’s tea, and more Irish favorites. In addition, you will find a selection of Celtic jewelry, clothing, trinkets and more.
McTeggart Irish Dancers
In 1939, the McTeggart Irish School of Dance was founded in County Cork, and expanded to Lexington, KY in 1995. They can be found competing and performing throughout the year, especially in March for St. Patrick’s Day. Think you can Irish jig? Sign up for one of their free trial classes!
Scenic Byway, Old Frankfort Pike
A favorite pastime of Lexington locals and visitors alike is taking the KY Scenic Byway down Old Frankfort Pike. This 17-mile historic trail leads from Lexington to Frankfort and is lined with national historic towns, flourishing natural scenery, and rolling hills filled with Thoroughbreds as far as the eye can see. Starting near the Distillery District, this drive will take you along some of Kentucky’s most beautiful land, and passes the must-see Secretariat statue and the historic dry-laid limestone fences built by Irish immigrants in the 1800s.
More tips from a Lexington native with Irish Heritage… be sure to check out Pisgah Pike for a scenic drive, Wallace Station and Valozzi’s for a great bite to eat and the town of Midway for shopping, bites and more.