Old Fayette County Courthouse
A beautifully restored historic courthouse now a vibrant hub with offices, dining, and a visitor center, buzzing with Saturday markets and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant farmer's market
Old Fayette County Courthouse
Best Time
Vibrant farmer's market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored historic courthouse now a vibrant hub with offices, dining, and a visitor center, buzzing with Saturday markets and events.
"Totally refurbished and repurposed... Includes a visitors center, restaurant / bar and cafe, other offices!"
🎯 Grab a Walking Tour Brochure
Pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center for a self-guided historical walking tour of downtown Lexington.
📅 Check for Special Events
The courthouse hosts various events like concerts; check local listings to catch one.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Refurbished Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning historical architecture, meticulously restored to its former glory. Only the original floors in the Visitor Center remain.
Saturday Farmer's Market
Courthouse Square
Experience a lively local scene with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Visitor Center
Ground Floor
Gather brochures for historical walking tours and learn about local museums and attractions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Historic Charm Meets Modern Buzz
A Hub of History and Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab a Walking Tour Brochure
Pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center for a self-guided historical walking tour of downtown Lexington.
📅 Check for Special Events
The courthouse hosts various events like concerts; check local listings to catch one.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially with aerial views.
🍽️ Enjoy Downtown Dining
Surrounded by restaurants and bars, it's a great spot to grab a bite before or after exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab a Walking Tour Brochure
Pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center for a self-guided historical walking tour of downtown Lexington.
📅 Check for Special Events
The courthouse hosts various events like concerts; check local listings to catch one.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The building's exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially with aerial views.
🍽️ Enjoy Downtown Dining
Surrounded by restaurants and bars, it's a great spot to grab a bite before or after exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Fayette County Courthouse for its stunning refurbishment and vibrant atmosphere, especially the Saturday farmer's market. It's lauded as a successful example of historic preservation and urban revitalization, offering dining and event spaces. Some minor points of feedback relate to navigating event entrances.
"A lot going on here! Building has been refurbished and repurposed. Offices, restaurants, Visitor Center.
Nextdoor was a farmers market on Saturday morning."
Dave
"Love history and historical architecture...
Totally refurbished and repurposed... Includes a visitors center, restaurant / bar and cafe, other offices!
All ng side the courthouse is a farmer's market on Saturdays
Surrounded by other restaurants and bars.
Area has a great vibe!
Pick up a brochure for the historical walking tour at the visitors center along with info on museums and other attractions"
David
"In the middle of downtown you will see such a historical site that has much history. History that sometimes can be reflected as bad, but overall every experience without serious harm can become experience, strength, and hope. There is a restaurant that I can't think of the name right now, but there is a lot of traffic so I assume that the food is great. The tables outside where people lunch and dine, is right in the middle of a bustling city that is constantly growing and vibrant. The steps facing Main Street are good steps to work out. The location of the Place blesses you with the view of The Fifth Third Bank, which is the highest skyscraper in Lexington, such a beautiful area to sightsee. God bless"
Von Fields (Dancinthrupain)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Fayette County Courthouse is located in the heart of downtown Lexington, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available, with bus routes serving the downtown area.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown area surrounding the courthouse. Consider parking garages like the Helix Garage or the Lexington Center Garage for convenient access.
If you are staying in downtown Lexington, the courthouse is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. It's a central point for exploring the city on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the building's public areas, including the Visitor Center and common spaces, is typically free. However, specific events like concerts may require tickets.
Operating hours can vary as the building houses various offices and businesses. The Visitor Center usually has standard business hours, but it's best to check for specific event times or office hours.
While the Old Fayette County Courthouse is a historic landmark, marriage licenses are typically obtained from the Fayette County Clerk's office. Elopements might be possible with prior arrangement with a judge.
The Visitor Center at the Old Fayette County Courthouse is generally free to enter, offering information about local attractions and the building's history.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the refurbished architecture, visit the Visitor Center for local information, dine at the onsite restaurant, and potentially attend events like concerts.
The Visitor Center provides historical context and brochures for walking tours. While not a traditional museum, the building itself is a historical exhibit.
The building has been refurbished and includes elevator access to upper floors, making it generally accessible. It's always a good idea to confirm specific accessibility needs with building management if required.
The courthouse offers a blend of historical significance and modern vibrancy, with offices, dining, and event spaces creating a lively atmosphere.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public areas. However, professional photography or filming may require special permits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the refurbished courthouse building includes a restaurant and a cafe, offering dining options within the historic landmark.
While specific menus can change, the presence of a restaurant and cafe suggests a range of dining options. Reviews indicate it's a popular spot with good traffic.
The area surrounding the courthouse is bustling with restaurants and bars, many offering outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the grand steps facing Main Street, and aerial views offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Aerial shots of the courthouse have been captured, showcasing its prominent location in downtown Lexington. Be sure to check local drone regulations before flying.
The historic architecture and central downtown location make it a picturesque backdrop for engagement and wedding photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the building itself is historic, its modern amenities like the cafe and restaurant offer convenient options for snacks or meals. The surrounding downtown area also provides open spaces for kids to move around. Consider checking for any family-friendly events hosted at the courthouse.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pick up a historical walking tour brochure from the Visitor Center to delve deeper into the building's story and its significance in Lexington's development. The surrounding downtown area also boasts other historical sites that can be explored on foot.
🍽️ Foodies & Socializers
Its location in the heart of downtown Lexington means it's surrounded by a plethora of other dining and drinking establishments. The lively ambiance, especially during the Saturday farmer's market or evening events, makes it an ideal place to experience Lexington's culinary and social scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of a Landmark
Only the original floors in the Visitor Center remain, a subtle nod to its storied past amidst the modern renovations. This preservation effort ensures that the building's historical significance is honored while adapting it for contemporary use. The transformation is a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its heritage.
Experiencing the Courthouse Square
Beyond the market, the square is bordered by numerous restaurants and bars, creating a vibrant dining and social scene. The steps facing Main Street are noted as a good spot for people-watching or even a quick workout, offering views of the city's skyline, including the Fifth Third Bank skyscraper. This central location makes it a prime spot for sightseeing and soaking in the city's energy.
Community Events and Repurposing
This repurposing highlights how historic buildings can be integrated into modern urban life. The courthouse is not just a relic of the past but a functional space that contributes to the cultural and social fabric of Lexington. Its continued use for events ensures its relevance and appeal to both locals and visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit