William T. Young library
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University of Kentucky

4.5
·1k reviews·Lexington, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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William T. Young library

University of Kentucky

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(1k reviews)

"The medical staff are kind and helpful, creating care plans with dedication."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic "White Chocolate" View

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

Big Blue Nation Spirit

Athletic Facilities

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

Beautiful Gardens

Beautiful Gardens

Horticulture Gardens

Explore the serene 100 acres of gardens, offering a peaceful escape and natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Campus Life

The University of Kentucky (UK) is a large institution with a vibrant campus life. Be prepared for a bustling environment, especially during the academic year. Consider visiting during off-peak times if you prefer a quieter experience. Many students share their daily lives and campus vibes on TikTok, offering a glimpse into student activities and the overall atmosphere.TikTok+1

Understanding Costs and Services

While UK offers excellent academic and medical services, some reviews highlight concerns about the cost of student services, particularly meal plans.Reddit It's advisable to thoroughly research tuition, fees, and living expenses. The university's medical facilities are highly regarded for their compassionate staff and comprehensive care plans.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
During athletic seasons
Why
Experience vibrant spirit
Crowd
High
When
Summer months
Why
Quieter campus atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#loyaltycheck #universityofkentucky
@addysanspamm
1.7M likes • 8.6M views

Capture the 'White Chocolate' Vibe

Don't miss capturing the aesthetic 'white chocolate' views of campus! :camerawithflash: TikTok

Embrace Big Blue Nation

Feel the energy of the 'Big Blue Nation' at UK sporting events. Go Cats! :blue_heart: TikTok

I love me a white chocolate view😏 #universityofkentucky #goldenbirkins #fyp #whitechocolate #uok
@goldenbirkins
290.2K likes • 1.6M views
did you think media day vids were over… :)) #gymternet #collegegymnastics #kentuckygymnastics #gymnastics #d1athlete #universityofkentucky #ncaagymnastics #ncaagym #collegegymnast #mediaday day
delaynee.rodriguez
1.3K likes • 22.1K views

Explore the Gardens

Take time to wander through the beautiful 100-acre gardens for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree: TikTok

Student Life Glimpses

Check out student TikToks for authentic campus life insights. :iphone: TikTok

ANGELS BY 90!!! 💙 #UKPanhellenic #PiPhi #UniversityofKentucky
ukpiphi
12.9K likes • 800K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Capture the 'White Chocolate' Vibe

Don't miss capturing the aesthetic 'white chocolate' views of campus! :camerawithflash: TikTok

Embrace Big Blue Nation

Feel the energy of the 'Big Blue Nation' at UK sporting events. Go Cats! :blue_heart: TikTok

Explore the Gardens

Take time to wander through the beautiful 100-acre gardens for a peaceful break. :evergreen_tree: TikTok

Student Life Glimpses

Check out student TikToks for authentic campus life insights. :iphone: TikTok

Sorority & Fraternity Life

See glimpses of Greek life and recruitment events on Instagram. :woman_student: Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

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

Kind and helpful medical staff
Beautiful campus gardens
Passionate 'Big Blue Nation' spirit

What People Dislike

High cost of student services
Predatory financial practices

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.TikTok

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.TikTok

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.Reddit

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.TikTok

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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.TikTok+2

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.TikTok

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.TikTok

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.Reddit Student TikToks often showcase food spots.TikTok

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.TikTokInstagram+1

📸 📸 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.TikTok+1

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.TikTok+1

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.TikTokInstagram+1

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.TikTokInstagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families visiting the University of Kentucky, the 100 acres of gardens offer a wonderful, free outdoor space for children to explore and enjoy nature. The campus is generally safe and walkable, making it suitable for family strolls. While the university itself is an academic institution, the open spaces and the general atmosphere can be engaging for younger visitors. Consider checking for any public events or festivals happening on campus that might be family-friendly. Some reviews mention positive experiences with campus tours, which could be adapted for older children interested in college life.Reddit

🎓 Prospective Students

The University of Kentucky is a fantastic choice for prospective students looking for a comprehensive college experience. Campus tours are highly recommended to get a feel for the academic environment, facilities, and student life. Many students share their daily routines and campus highlights on TikTok, offering authentic insights into what it's like to be a UK student.TikTok+1

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.Reddit Engaging with current students online can provide valuable perspectives on academics, social life, and campus resources.

❤️ Couples

For couples, the University of Kentucky gardens provide a beautiful and serene setting for a romantic stroll or a peaceful afternoon. Exploring the campus together can be a charming experience, especially during pleasant weather. Consider attending a UK sporting event to share in the vibrant 'Big Blue Nation' spirit, which can be a fun and energetic outing.TikTok

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

The University of Kentucky is synonymous with its powerhouse athletic programs, particularly men's basketball. The term 'Big Blue Nation' (BBN) encapsulates the fervent and widespread support for UK sports. This passionate fanbase extends far beyond the campus, uniting alumni, students, and fans across Kentucky and beyond.TikTok

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.TikTokInstagram

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

Student life at the University of Kentucky is a dynamic mix of academic pursuits, social engagement, and extracurricular activities. With a student body of over 36,000, the campus buzzes with energy. TikTok and Instagram reels offer a candid look into the daily lives of UK students, from attending classes and studying in the library to social gatherings and exploring Lexington.TikTokInstagram+1

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.Instagram+2 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

Founded in 1865, the University of Kentucky is a premier public research university with a strong reputation for academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. It offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, attracting students from across the nation and the world. The university is committed to fostering innovation and discovery through its extensive research initiatives.

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.Reddit This dual focus on education and healthcare underscores the university's significant impact on the region and beyond.

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