From arts to commerce, Lexington’s talent is booming — and gaining national recognition through rankings, awards, and even Michelin Guide accolades. The LEXtoday team has loved following the people and businesses that make our city shine, and we’ve rounded up some of Lexington’s biggest national spotlight moments from 2025…
- Condé Nast Traveler named Lexington the No. 8 best small city in the US, according to the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The award recognized Lexington’s mark on the Kentucky Bourbon trail and eateries including Doodles, Bourbon on Rye, and Crank & Boom.
- The Manchester, a luxury hotel in Lexington’s Distillery District, earned a Michelin Key — a prestigious US hotel honor similar to a Michelin star. The guide awards one, two, or three keys; both The Manchester and Hotel Genevieve in Louisville received one key for a very special stay.
- Good Housekeeping crowned Lexington the Triple Crown of Girls’ Weekend — noting favorite girlfriend…