Cool Hotels Lexington: Bet On It
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Keeneland’s spring meet is upon us, and there’s no better place to spend a sunny April afternoon. If you’re not from the area, it’s important to find a place to crash after post-race dinner and drinks but picking the right hotel can be a challenge. Here are three recommendations to suit any budget.
Win: Storybook Inn
The Rate: $269
The Lowdown: Our lives are full of a lot of hustle and bustle, and a trip to Kentucky can slow down our hectic lives. If that’s the type of experience you’re looking for, then this is the spot for you. A highlight of your stay could be a simple breakfast in their signature Conservatory, which resembles an English Orangery. Something as simple as this is a treasure in an era of cookie cutter hotels.
STORYBOOK INN
Photo courtesy Storybook Inn
While the price tag might suggest “pretentious,” this historic inn is anything but that. The building was originally constructed in 1838, but it underwent a complete makeover in 2010 to get it up to speed and to make it a competitive option for seasoned travelers looking for a “truly Kentucky” stay. What resulted was a time machine that takes guests back to simpler times, with a touch of elegance.
Place: Castle Post
The Rate: $195
The Lowdown: If you’re in town to celebrate the Sport of Kings, you might as well live like one while you’re at it. This venue is fit for royalty. If your trip to the track had a fairy tale ending and you cashed big-time, go ahead and upgrade to the Imperial Suite ($345).
CASTLE POST
Photo courtesy Castle Post
This plush castle bed-and-breakfast has all the modern amenities one would expect from a winning hotel—pool, tennis court, billiard room. On the flip side, the ambiance and décor is the furthest thing from modern. It’s a straight up throwback to the Middle Ages with its massive, 12-foot wooden doors and medieval landscaped courtyard. However, no serfs are included in your room rate.
Located right down the road from Keeneland, The Castle Post scores major points for convenience as well.
Show: Snug Hollow Farm
The Rate: $139
SNUG HOLLOW FARM
Photo courtesy Snug Hollow Farm
The Lowdown: This bed-and-breakfast is located out in the country, so it’s a bit of a drive to the track (1 hour and 15 minutes). What it lacks in convenience, it more than makes up for in beauty. It’s set in serene Kentucky hills that will be blossoming with new colors if you visit for Keeneland’s spring meet, or the leaves will be turning to rust if you choose to wait for the fall meet.
When you stay here, you’re situated on a scenic fully-functional organic farm, but the “holler hospitality” will have you feeling pampered and relaxed on your stay. Be sure to dine-in for dinner at least one night to sample the Innkeeper’s famous homemade rosemary braided bread.