
University of Kentucky
A premier research university in Lexington, KY, known for its vibrant 'Big Blue Nation' spirit and beautiful 100-acre gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

University of Kentucky
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier research university in Lexington, KY, known for its vibrant 'Big Blue Nation' spirit and beautiful 100-acre gardens.
"The medical staff are kind and helpful, creating care plans with dedication."

Capture the 'White Chocolate' Vibe
Don't miss capturing the aesthetic 'white chocolate' views of campus! :camerawithflash:
Embrace Big Blue Nation
Feel the energy of the 'Big Blue Nation' at UK sporting events. Go Cats! :blue_heart:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic "White Chocolate" View
Campus-wide
Experience the picturesque campus scenery, often referred to by students as the 'white chocolate view.'

Big Blue Nation Spirit
Athletic Facilities
Immerse yourself in the passionate 'Big Blue Nation' spirit, especially evident at sporting events.

Beautiful Gardens
Horticulture Gardens
Explore the serene 100 acres of gardens, offering a peaceful escape and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus Life
Understanding Costs and Services
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Capture the 'White Chocolate' Vibe
Don't miss capturing the aesthetic 'white chocolate' views of campus! :camerawithflash:
Embrace Big Blue Nation
Feel the energy of the 'Big Blue Nation' at UK sporting events. Go Cats! :blue_heart:
Explore the Gardens
Take time to wander through the beautiful 100-acre gardens for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree:
Student Life Glimpses
Check out student TikToks for authentic campus life insights. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Capture the 'White Chocolate' Vibe
Don't miss capturing the aesthetic 'white chocolate' views of campus! :camerawithflash:
Embrace Big Blue Nation
Feel the energy of the 'Big Blue Nation' at UK sporting events. Go Cats! :blue_heart:
Explore the Gardens
Take time to wander through the beautiful 100-acre gardens for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree:
Student Life Glimpses
Check out student TikToks for authentic campus life insights. :iphone:
Sorority & Fraternity Life
See glimpses of Greek life and recruitment events on Instagram. :woman_student:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the University of Kentucky's compassionate medical staff and comprehensive healthcare services, noting their dedication to patient care. The campus offers beautiful gardens and a vibrant 'Big Blue Nation' spirit, particularly around athletics. However, some reviews express concerns regarding the cost of student services, such as meal plans, and the university's approach to student finances.
"Visited this college campus on a school counselor bus tour. I’m only a little familiar with Lexington as I have a friend who lives here. Our hosts were friendly & gave an informative presentation; they also provided us with a delightful lunch from DV8 Kitchen. We went on a toasty tour 🥵 & in my opinion, there wasn’t anything aesthetically pleasing about the campus, from the outside anyway. Huge public research university; undergrad & grad students it’s like 36,000 folks!! 🤯"
Lisa Guzman
"The school does everything they can to cost the students (basically their parents) as much money as possible. The meal packages are designed to cost dorm residents the maximum possible. They offer meal plans to students living off campus that are better and cheaper than plans available to students living on campus. 175 anytime meals that don't expire for $1600 per semester for off campus, compared to 10 meals per week for 16 weeks (160 meals total) for $2050 to students living in a dorm, and the meals expire at the end of every week if not used. This is just one example of their predatory practices.
They know every angle on how to extract money from the parents, while telling the parents they cannot talk to them about their child, and the child needs to make all requests for changes or information etc. They take advantage of barely adults because they know basically kids don't know any better and usually do not follow through on things."
J. Bus
"All of the staff, nurses, PAs, NP, and doctors are all so kind and helpful. My careteam at UK created a care plan with chemo, radiation, simulations, and more.
I feel everyone there is there because they want to help and they care.
Thank you for what you do!
Allie"
Allie Lewis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The University of Kentucky is located in Lexington, KY. Major highways like I-75 and I-64 provide access to the city. Public transportation options within Lexington include Lextran buses, which serve the campus area. Many visitors arrive by car, and campus parking information can be found on the UK Transportation Services website. Some TikToks show the general vibe of living in Lexington, which is adjacent to the university.
The University of Kentucky campus is quite large. Walking is a great way to explore, but for longer distances, the UK Campus Bus system is available. Many students also use bikes or scooters. Some TikToks showcase students navigating campus life, giving an idea of distances and travel times.
Yes, visitor parking is available at the University of Kentucky, though it can be limited and may require payment. Several parking garages and surface lots are accessible to visitors. It's recommended to check the UK Transportation Services website for the most current parking regulations and rates. One review mentioned successfully parking in 15-minute parking without a ticket.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Lexington and can drop you off at various points on the University of Kentucky campus. This is a convenient option if you're not driving yourself.
The University of Kentucky is easily accessible via major roads in Lexington. Nicholasville Road (US 27) and Euclid Avenue are primary routes that run through or near campus. These roads connect to the interstate highways.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to visit the University of Kentucky campus itself. You can walk around and explore the grounds freely. However, tickets are necessary for specific events like athletic games, concerts, or performances held at university venues. Some TikToks show the excitement around events, hinting at ticketed experiences.
The University of Kentucky campus is generally accessible to visitors during daylight hours. Specific buildings and facilities may have their own operating hours. For example, libraries, student centers, and administrative offices will have set times. The gardens are also accessible during daylight.
Yes, the University of Kentucky often offers guided campus tours, especially for prospective students. These tours provide an excellent overview of the campus, facilities, and student life. One review mentioned a positive experience on a counselor bus tour with informative hosts.
Visiting the University of Kentucky campus is free. However, costs will be incurred if you attend ticketed events, purchase food, or utilize paid parking. Be aware that some student services, like meal plans, have been noted as potentially expensive.
The University of Kentucky HealthCare facilities are open to patients and visitors. If you have an appointment, follow the specific directions provided by the medical center. Reviews highlight the kindness and helpfulness of the medical staff.
🎫 🏛️ Campus Experience
Key spots include the beautiful gardens, the iconic "white chocolate" views of campus, and any athletic facilities to soak in the 'Big Blue Nation' spirit. Exploring student life through social media can also give you a feel for popular hangouts.
The 'white chocolate' view refers to the aesthetically pleasing and often picturesque scenery of the University of Kentucky campus, particularly its architecture and landscaping. It's a term used by students to describe the campus's visual appeal.
The 'Big Blue Nation' is the passionate fanbase and community surrounding the University of Kentucky's athletic programs, especially basketball and football. It represents a strong sense of pride and loyalty.
Yes, there are numerous dining options on and around campus, ranging from campus dining halls and cafes to restaurants in downtown Lexington. One review mentioned a positive experience with lunch from DV8 Kitchen during a campus visit.
Student TikToks often showcase food spots.Student life at UK is dynamic, with a strong emphasis on academics, athletics, and social activities. You'll find numerous clubs, organizations, Greek life, and campus events. TikTok and Instagram reels offer a visual peek into student routines, parties, and daily campus experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The University of Kentucky offers many photogenic spots. The gardens are a natural beauty, while the campus architecture provides classic shots. Students often capture the 'white chocolate' views and vibrant athletic events. Look for iconic buildings and scenic pathways.
Yes, you are welcome to take personal photos on the University of Kentucky campus. For commercial photography or large-scale media productions, you may need to obtain permits. Social media content creators frequently share their campus photos and videos.
Students often share photos and videos capturing campus aesthetics, daily life, athletic events, and social gatherings. The 'white chocolate' views and the energy of 'Big Blue Nation' are common themes. Greek life events are also frequently documented.
While personal photography is generally allowed, be mindful of privacy when photographing individuals. Large-scale commercial shoots or events may require prior approval. Always be respectful of the campus environment and its occupants.
Check out TikTok and Instagram for inspiration! Search for hashtags like #universityofkentucky, #uky, and #gocats. You'll see a wide range of student-created content showcasing different aspects of campus life and scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎓 Prospective Students
Pay attention to the diverse range of academic programs and extracurricular activities available. Researching student housing and meal plans is also crucial, as some reviews suggest careful consideration of costs associated with these services. Engaging with current students online can provide valuable perspectives on academics, social life, and campus resources.
❤️ Couples
Lexington itself offers a variety of dining and entertainment options that can complement a visit to the university. Exploring local restaurants or enjoying a quiet moment in the gardens can create memorable experiences for couples visiting the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Big Blue Nation' Phenomenon
Game days, especially for basketball, are major events, transforming Lexington into a sea of blue. The energy is palpable, and attending a game is an experience in itself. Social media is flooded with content celebrating UK's athletic achievements, showcasing the deep-rooted pride and community that BBN fosters.
Beyond basketball, other sports like football also command significant attention. The university's commitment to athletics is a cornerstone of its identity, contributing to a vibrant campus culture and a strong sense of belonging for many students and alumni.
Student Life and Campus Culture
Greek life plays a significant role for many students, with numerous sororities and fraternities actively participating in recruitment and campus events. These organizations are often showcased on social media, highlighting sisterhood and brotherhood bonds. Beyond Greek life, a wide array of student organizations cater to diverse interests, from academic clubs to cultural groups and recreational sports.
Lexington itself offers a rich cultural scene, with opportunities for students to explore local attractions, dining, and entertainment. The university's location provides a balance between a bustling campus environment and access to the broader community.
Academic and Medical Excellence
Complementing its academic strengths, UK HealthCare is a leading medical institution providing advanced patient care, medical education, and groundbreaking research. Patients and their families often share positive experiences, commending the compassionate and skilled medical staff, including doctors, nurses, and PAs, for their dedication to creating personalized care plans. This dual focus on education and healthcare underscores the university's significant impact on the region and beyond.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit