Ranked as one of the nation's best places to live and work, Lexington offers many educational, cultural and commercial opportunities. With a population of over 250,000 people, Lexington supports cultural attractions such as opera, ballet, theater, and musical events. Surrounded by rolling hills and horse farms, the Bluegrass Region is known for its natural beauty.
About Lexington
The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, is the ninth largest economic company in the state. In addition to being the Horse Capital of the World, Central Kentucky is home to many major industries. The scenic horse farms combined with the ambience of a University town make Lexington unique.
The Horses
Lexington is the Horse Capital of the World. You could choose to attend thoroughbred racing at Keeneland Race Course or harness racing at the Red Mile, visit the Kentucky Horse Park, or shop in a restored downtown area or any of several malls.
The Arts
The arts abound in Lexington. Support of the arts is seen in the pride the city takes in its philharmonic orchestra, ballet companies, chamber music society, and theater productions. UK and Transylvania University offer art exhibits, plays, and concerts, including the UK Artist Series, where world-renowned classical musicians perform at the Fine Arts Center, and a nationally recognized Spotlight Jazz Series sponsored by the UK Student Board. Lexington's Civic Center, in downtown Lexington, regularly hosts a variety of nationally known entertainers and special events. The city is alive with talented bluegrass, blues, jazz and rock musicians.
Things to Do
There are a number of public golf courses in Lexington, and the Kentucky State Park System provides a variety of locales for hiking, camping, boating and mountain biking. Where overall health and wellness opportunities are concerned, UK employees may take part in basketball, weightlifting, swimming, racquetball, and tennis, as well as state-of-the-art fitness facilities available across our campus.
The Region
Cincinnati, located to the North of Lexington, and Louisville, located to the West, are both within a two-hour drive. Also located nearby is the college community of Berea, Kentucky, one of the nation's best-known arts and crafts centers. On any given weekend, people may be found hiking among natural stone bridges and canyons in the Red River Gorge, exploring Mammoth Cave National Park, or boating on one of the many lakes in the area.
Education
The city is surrounded by many higher education facilities in addition to the University of Kentucky. The state of Kentucky has a total of eight public universities including the University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University and Murray State University. There are an additional 34 private colleges and universities in the state including Transylvania University, which is located in Lexington. Lexington also has six high schools, 12 middle schools, and 37 elementary schools, as well as six private schools.