Greater LEX Lore
The heartbeat of Kentucky's Bluegrass Region
Greater LEX Lore isn’t just a collection of traditions—it’s a living, breathing blend of stories, experiences, and quirks that make Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region unforgettable. Passed down from person to person and eagerly shared with visitors, these local legends and hidden gems are part heritage, part heart, and 100% pure charm. You’ve heard about our horses and bourbon (cheers to that!), but diving into the lore we’re famous for is the only way to truly feel why Greater LEX is the ultimate place to live, work, and play.
Link to Illustration of the "Willie Burger" from Wilson's Pool Room in Versailles, KY
Willie Burger
Ready to sink your teeth into a local legend? The Willie Burger is a mouthwatering masterpiece crafted at Wilson’s Pool Room—a historic Versailles landmark since 1955. Bold, juicy, and packed with flavor, this burger is as unforgettable as your best shot on the table!
Versailles, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of a bat in headphones drinking a glass of cave water
Highbridge Springs “Cave Water”
Deep in the heart of Jessamine County, flows “cave water” which has a story as rich as its crystal-clear taste. Drawn and distributed by Highbridge Springs, this iconic, underground limestone spring has been quenching Kentucky thirsts and fueling local legend for generations.
Nicholasville, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of Lexington-Fayette's Lenny, Herbie and Rosie bins used for yard waste, trash and recycling.
Lenny Herbie and Rosie
Meet Lenny, Herbie, and Rosie – Lexington’s trusty trio turning waste into wonder, and they’re on a mission to make your recycling game stronger than ever! With every bin, you’re powering a cleaner, greener community, one thoughtful sort at a time.
Lexington, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of a Kentucky First Lady doll throwing up a peace sign
Kentucky First Lady Dolls
Step into history and style with Frankfort’s Kentucky First Lady Doll Collection – a tribute to the stories, fashion, and legacy of Kentucky’s leading ladies. Each doll is meticulously hand-crafted, capturing the elegance and influence of these iconic women in every stitch.
Frankfort, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of winking spoonbread character in a bowl
Spoonbread Festival
Ready to dig into Kentucky’s best-kept flavor fest? The Spoonbread Festival held in Berea serves up Southern charm, with a side of live music, local hospitality, and hometown vibes – all best enjoyed with a friend, spoon and a smile!
Berea, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of Ruth Hunt Candy's Blue Monday Chocolate Bar holding a balloon
Blue Monday Bar
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a taste of Kentucky tradition! The Blue Monday Bar from Ruth Hunt Candies is a creamy, dreamy delight that’s been melting hearts in Mt. Sterling and across the Bluegrass since 1921 – one bite, and you’ll know why it’s the favorite.
Mt. Sterling, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of a pretzel in sunglasses sitting in a bowl of beer cheese.
Beer Cheese
Looking to grab a bite where it all began? Head to Winchester, the birthplace of beer cheese—Kentucky’s bold, tangy classic with the perfect kick! Fully dive into the flavor that put Clark County on the map at their annual Beer Cheese Festival every June.
Winchester, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of a minature pony in a bowtie
Little Silver Charm
Meet Little Silver Charm, Georgetown’s miniature horse mascot with a giant personality. This pint-sized legend is one of the many famous residents at Old Friends’ Equine Retirement Farm and proves that good things really do come in small, feisty packages!
Georgetown, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of a fish giving thumbs up in Jigg Water Creek
Jigg Water Creek
Whispered about by locals and loved by those in the know, Jigg Water Creek is Richmond’s natural escape flowing with hidden adventures. Pack the truck, grab your friends, and experience the good times that run through these waters.
Richmond, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of the "Tin Man" Water Tower in Midway, KY
“Tin Man” Water Tower
Since the 1940s, the “Tin Man” Water Tower has stood watch over Midway, quietly soaking up every bit of the town’s rich history and silent mysteries. This iconic landmark isn’t just a tower—it’s a storyteller, holding the untold tales of Midway from every gabled angle.
Midway, Kentucky
Link to Illustration of Paris, Kentucky's Eiffel Tower
Kentucky Eiffel Tower
In the heart of Bourbon County, the Paris Eiffel Tower stands tall—yep, you read that right, an Eiffel Tower right here in Kentucky. This quirky landmark packs all the charm and history of its French counterpart, but with a local Kentucky twist.
Paris, KentuckyDiscover More of Greater LEX
Live Here
With nationally recognized healthcare centers, stellar K-12 schools and safe and welcoming communities, Greater LEX is a great place to live.
Work Here
Our region is teeming with innovation and career opportunities across industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing and business & professional services.
Play Here
From the best Bourbon and an unstoppable food scene to outdoor adventures and all things equine, we take recreation with a side of Southern tranquility.
