10 Best Architectural Buildings in Lexington, Kentucky: A Local’s Guide

Lexington, Kentucky is rich in architectural marvels that reflect the city’s history and cultural heritage.

From significant historical buildings to modern architectural gems, Lexington offers a diverse array of structures that capture the essence of various design styles and periods.

Exploring these buildings provides a glimpse into the city’s evolution and the architects’ visionary work.

What are the most compelling architectural structures that you must see in Lexington?

This article will guide you through some of the finest and most iconic buildings in the city.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just curious about the unique designs that define Lexington, you’ll find plenty to admire and appreciate.

1. Mary Todd Lincoln House

The Mary Todd Lincoln House is located in downtown Lexington, Kentucky.

This historic home was the girlhood residence of Mary Todd, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln.

Built between 1803-1806, the house has been open to the public since 1977.

It was the first house museum in the United States to honor a First Lady.

The house features fourteen rooms and displays period furniture, portraits, and artifacts from the Todd and Lincoln families.

Visitors can explore these exhibits to gain insight into Mary Todd Lincoln’s early life and her significant role in American history.

2. Hunt-Morgan House

The Hunt-Morgan House, also known as Hopemont, is a Federal-style residence built in 1814 by John Wesley Hunt, the first millionaire west of the Alleghenies.

Located at 201 North Mill Street in Lexington, this historic house retains its original architectural features, including a cantilevered staircase and a fanlight window.

It sits in the Gratz Park Historic District, offering a glimpse into antebellum life.

For more information, visit the Hunt-Morgan House.

3. Lexington Opera House

The Lexington Opera House, located at 401 West Short Street, is a magnificent piece of architecture built in 1886.

Designed by renowned architect Oscar Cobb, this historic theater replaced an earlier building destroyed by fire.

With financial help from The Opera House Fund, Inc., the city purchased and renovated the structure in 1975.

The Opera House reopened in 1976, preserving its historical significance.

The venue has hosted many famous performers, including W.C. Fields and Steve Martin. Today, it remains a premier arts center in Lexington.

You can learn more about the Lexington Opera House.

4. The Square

The Square has been a significant part of downtown Lexington since the 1880s. This block of sixteen buildings has included saloons, hotels, restaurants, and an opera house.

In 1985, a modern renovation united these buildings under one roof.

This created an airy and accessible space, best viewed from the central courtyard.

The Square continues to be a vibrant hub, hosting unique shops and businesses in downtown Lexington.

For more details, you can visit The Square’s official site.

5. Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate

Ashland, the historic estate of Henry Clay, is one of Lexington’s architectural landmarks.

Built in the early 1800s, this Federal-style mansion reflects the elegant design of that period.

Located in the Bluegrass region, the estate includes a beautifully maintained 17-acre garden.

Visitors can explore the reconstructed 18-room mansion, walking trails, and an arboretum with over 400 trees.

The estate served as Henry Clay’s home for nearly half a century and is now a National Historic Landmark.

Learn more about the estate’s significance by visiting Ashland’s Architecture.

6. Loudoun House

Loudoun House is a notable example of Gothic Revival architecture in Lexington, Kentucky.

Designed by Alexander Jackson Davis, a New York architect, it was built in 1850 for Francis Key Hunt.

Located at 209 Castlewood Drive, it stands out with its castle-like appearance.

Today, it houses galleries, studios, and classrooms, managed by the Lexington Art League.

This mansion is one of the largest Gothic Revival homes in the state, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Learn more about Loudoun House here.

7. Cardome Centre

Located in Georgetown, Kentucky, the Cardome Centre is deeply rooted in history.

Situated on 87 acres along the north fork of Elkhorn Creek, this property is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Lexington.

Currently, Cardome Centre houses St. John Catholic School. Previously, it served as home to several notable figures.

The site offers a peaceful setting with beautiful architecture, making it a treasured part of Kentucky’s heritage.

For those interested in architecture and history, visiting the Cardome Centre provides a unique glimpse into the past. Tours can be scheduled by appointment.

8. Headley-Whitney Museum

The Headley-Whitney Museum is a notable landmark in Lexington.

Founded by George Headley, a famous jewelry designer, this museum showcases a wide range of decorative arts.

Its architecture features a mix of styles designed by Lexington architect Robert Pinkerton.

Visitors can explore George Headley’s collection of fine arts, including a 1,500-volume library.

For more details, visit Headley-Whitney Museum (link).

9. Whitaker Bank Ballpark

Whitaker Bank Ballpark, home to the Lexington Legends, is a notable sports facility in Lexington, Kentucky.

This 6,000-seat ballpark offers club seating, private suites, and a public concourse with restrooms and concessions.

The field dimensions include 320 feet to the left, 401 feet to center, and 318 feet to the right.

This stadium also features a player’s clubhouse integrated into the outfield wall and a family picnic area along the left field.

Originally known as Applebee’s Park, it opened in 2001 and was the largest market without a baseball team at that time.

10. Victorian Square Shoppes

Victorian Square Shoppes is located in the heart of downtown Lexington.

This complex of sixteen historic buildings dates back to the 1880s.

Originally, it housed saloons, hotels, restaurants, and an opera house.

A modern renovation brought the buildings together under one roof.

Now, it’s an airy and accessible space.

The Square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can enjoy unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Covered parking is available from Short Street, adding convenience for guests.

Historical Significance

Lexington, Kentucky is known for its rich architectural history. The city’s historical buildings reflect its early influences and the ongoing efforts to preserve these important landmarks.

Early Architecture Influences

Many of Lexington’s historic buildings showcase the architectural style of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Influences from European and colonial designs are evident.

Structures like the Mary Todd Lincoln House highlight federal-style architecture, featuring symmetrical designs and classic details.

Another notable example is the Ashland, the estate of Henry Clay.

This historic mansion represents Greek Revival architecture with its grand columns and elegant facades.

These buildings provide insight into the early American cultural and political influences that shaped the area.

Preservation Efforts in Lexington

Lexington has made significant strides in preserving its historical architecture.

Organizations like the Bluegrass Trust for Historic Preservation are dedicated to maintaining and restoring historic landmarks around the city.

They focus on preserving the character and integrity of these structures.

The Lexington Public Library also plays a crucial role.

Their collection, Old Kentucky Architecture, includes photographs and architectural plans from historic buildings, ensuring these designs are remembered and valued.

Numerous preserved sites, like Boone Station State Historic Site, offer educational opportunities for the public to learn about the area’s rich history and architectural heritage.

These preservation efforts ensure that Lexington’s architectural legacy will continue to be appreciated for generations.

Architectural Styles

Lexington, Kentucky features a wide range of architectural styles that showcase the city’s rich history and evolving design trends.

From historic Victorian-era buildings to cutting-edge modern architecture, this city’s landscape is a blend of tradition and innovation.

Victorian Era Buildings

Victorian-era buildings in Lexington are distinguished by their intricate ornamentation and elaborate details.

These structures often feature steeply pitched roofs, decorative gables, and rounded towers.

Many also have wooden trims known as “gingerbread” detailing.

Brick and wood are commonly used materials, reflecting the craftsmanship of the late 19th century.

Notable examples include the homes along Broadway and landmarks such as the Hunt-Morgan House.

These buildings offer a glimpse into Lexington’s affluent past and its appreciation for fine design.

Modern Architectural Trends

Modern architecture in Lexington incorporates clean lines and minimalist aesthetics.

Architects here focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, using materials like glass, steel, and concrete.

Open floor plans and large windows are typical, allowing for natural light and a seamless connection with the outdoors.

Innovative firms, such as Gibson Taylor Thompson Architecture & Design, contribute to this trend by blending traditional elements with contemporary needs.

Other designers, like OH Design Lab, emphasize unique, client-focused solutions, creating homes that stand out while fitting in harmoniously with their surroundings.

Architectural Tours and Experiences

Lexington offers many opportunities to explore its rich architectural heritage. Visitors can choose from guided tours and self-guided architectural walks, each providing a unique way to experience the city’s iconic buildings and landmarks.

Guided Tours

For those who prefer a structured experience, several guided tours offer deep insights into Lexington’s architectural marvels.

Viator features popular options like the Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour, which includes visits to private farms with stunning old buildings.

Another notable choice is the 2-Hour Guided Walking Art and Appetizers Tour, combining local culinary delights with views of significant architectural sites.

These tours are led by experts who share historical context, architectural details, and personal anecdotes to enrich the experience.

For history enthusiasts, the James E. Pepper Distillery showcases industrial architecture and the whiskey-making process.

These guided experiences allow tourists to appreciate Lexington’s built environment through diverse lenses.

Self-Guided Architectural Walks

For those who enjoy exploring at their own pace, self-guided architectural walks can be a perfect choice.

Wanderlog offers a helpful list of the best architectural sites in Lexington. This includes renowned locations like the Mary Todd Lincoln House and Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate.

A walking tour of the downtown area reveals a mix of historic and modern architecture, from old brick buildings to sleek contemporary structures.

Must-see buildings like the Mary Todd Lincoln House offer glimpses into the city’s past.

Self-guided walks are ideal for photographers, architecture students, and those who prefer a leisurely exploration.

With maps and detailed descriptions often available online or through local visitor centers, planning a personalized tour is easy and enjoyable.