Lexington, Kentucky, a city renowned for its horse farms and bourbon distilleries, has undergone a delightful transformation in its retail landscape. Gone are the days when shopping was solely defined by the sprawling confines of malls and the predictable offerings of department stores. A refreshing "local first" ethos has taken root, fostering a resurgence of charming mom-and-pop shops alongside the established retail destinations. Today, exploring the best shopping in Lexington, Kentucky is an adventure, a chance to uncover unique treasures and connect with the passionate individuals behind these businesses.
This article delves into the diverse shopping experiences that Lexington has to offer, from vibrant marketplaces and expansive malls to quirky boutiques and vintage havens. Whether you’re seeking locally crafted goods, high-end fashion, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Lexington has something to satisfy every shopper’s desire.
Julietta Market: A Hub of Creativity and Community
Located in a revitalized Greyhound bus station at the intersection of North Limestone and Loudon Avenue, Julietta Market is a vibrant testament to Lexington’s entrepreneurial spirit. This 23,000-square-foot space is home to over 60 small-business kiosks, providing a platform for artisans and entrepreneurs from all walks of life to showcase and sell their creations.
Julietta Market transcends the traditional shopping experience, fostering a strong sense of community through its communal spaces and pop-up events. The market operates as a nonprofit, with a mission to support marginalized groups and provide opportunities for economic empowerment. Within its walls, you’ll find an array of handcrafted goods, from jewelry and artwork to clothing and home decor.
One such gem is Treehouse Goods, a kiosk owned by local artists, offering a delightful selection of handmade jewelry and other unique items that make for memorable gifts. The market’s atmosphere is one of warmth and inclusivity, making it a destination where shoppers can not only find creative products but also support a worthy cause.
Fayette Mall: A Retail Powerhouse
While many indoor shopping malls have faded from prominence, Fayette Mall remains a retail powerhouse in Lexington. Situated on Nicholasville Road, this expansive mall boasts over 175 shops, encompassing more than 1.1 million square feet of retail space. Beyond the stores themselves, Fayette Mall also features kiosks, restaurants, and a food court, making it a comprehensive shopping and dining destination.
The area surrounding Fayette Mall is equally bustling, with numerous standalone shops and plazas further expanding the retail options. Fayette Mall is anchored by major retail chains such as Dillard’s and Macy’s, providing shoppers with a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods. However, nestled within the mall is Artique Gallery, showcasing the talent of local artists and offering a curated collection of unique artwork and handcrafted items. Fayette Mall operates with extended hours during the holiday season, making it a popular destination for festive shopping.
Joseph-Beth Booksellers: A Literary and Culinary Escape
Located in Lexington Green, across from Fayette Mall, Joseph-Beth Booksellers has evolved from a simple bookstore into a captivating destination that combines literature, dining, and unique shopping experiences. The inviting atmosphere of Joseph-Beth is enhanced by a fireplace, comfortable couches, a bistro, and an outdoor space overlooking an artificial lake, encouraging visitors to linger and immerse themselves in the surroundings.
Beyond its extensive collection of books spanning various genres, Joseph-Beth offers a curated selection of Kentucky-themed products and tasteful souvenirs, perfect for visitors seeking a memento of their time in the Bluegrass region. Palmers Fresh Grill, located within Joseph-Beth, is renowned for its fresh seafood and is considered one of Lexington’s finest restaurants. Just a short walk across the parking lot lies Peacocks & Pearls, a trendy boutique owned by a mother-daughter team, offering a curated selection of fashionable clothing and accessories.
The Summit at Fritz Farm: Upscale Shopping and Socializing
The Summit at Fritz Farm, often referred to simply as "The Summit," is an upscale, outdoor shopping area situated at the corner of Nicholasville Road and Man-O-War Boulevard. This meticulously planned development is home to Lexington’s only Apple Store and Whole Foods Market, alongside a diverse collection of over 60 trendy shops.
The Summit’s compact layout allows visitors to park and easily walk to all of its attractions, including its more than 20 restaurants. An inviting outdoor hangout space, complete with a fire pit, encourages socializing and relaxation, particularly during pleasant weather. While The Summit can become congested during peak hours on Nicholasville Road, a parking garage and alternative exits help alleviate traffic flow. The Summit at Fritz Farm offers a modern and sophisticated shopping experience.
Boutique Shops: Discovering Unique Style
Lexington is a haven for independently owned boutique shops, each offering a distinct personality and a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods. These boutiques provide a personalized shopping experience that is often difficult to find in larger stores, allowing shoppers to connect with the owners and discover unique items that reflect their individual style.
A cluster of boutiques can be found along stretches of East Maxwell Street, High Street, and in the Chevy Chase area. Black Swan Books has been a fixture in Lexington for over 30 years, specializing in rare and antique books. For those seeking designer fashion, Bella Rose and Calypso Boutique, both located on Maxwell Street, offer a curated selection of high-end clothing and accessories. These boutiques represent the best shopping in Lexington, Kentucky for unique and personalized experiences.
Southland Drive: A Retro Vibe and Local Treasures
Southland Drive exudes a nostalgic charm, with its old-school shopping centers and mom-and-pop businesses offering a diverse range of goods, from homemade candy to musical instruments. The neighborhood embraces its retro appeal, with vintage signage and outdoor art installations adding to its unique character.
Good Foods Coop, a beloved local institution, anchors the west side of Southland Drive, offering a wide selection of organic and natural foods. Along the strip, you’ll find a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Local Lex Market, a leather store, a pipe shop, several comic stores, and music shops. For entertainment after a day of shopping, Marikka’s Bier Stube offers a taste of Germany with its authentic beer and food. The Sunday version of the Lexington Farmers Market takes place on Southland Drive, providing a vibrant display of local produce and artisanal goods.
SQecial Media and CD Central: Quirky Finds and Musical Gems
SQecial Media, established in 1972, has become a Lexington institution, offering a curated selection of wonderfully weird and unusual items that you never knew you needed. The store carries books, incense, religious items, journals, trinkets, and obscure gifts, making it a destination for those seeking something out of the ordinary.
Next door, CD Central has been serving Lexington’s music lovers since 1995. The store boasts a wide selection of new and used CDs, vinyl records, and other music-related items.
Vintage Shops: A Step Back in Time
Lexington’s vintage shops offer a glimpse into the past, with their carefully curated collections of clothing, accessories, furniture, and household decor from bygone eras. Street Scene, connected to Coffee Times on Regency Road, is a refined second-hand shop offering a rotating assortment of eclectic items.
Pop’s Resale, located on Leestown Road, has been selling vintage and pre-owned items since 1996. Clothing, accessories, records, and artifacts from times past are displayed in a delightfully grungy setting.
Justin’s House of Bourbon: A Taste of Kentucky Heritage
A visit to the Bluegrass region would be incomplete without experiencing the rich tradition of Kentucky bourbon. Justin’s House of Bourbon, located on West Main Street, offers a unique opportunity to learn about and sample a wide variety of Kentucky bourbons.
Customers can schedule a visit or simply wander in for a tasting and a lesson in bourbon culture. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the nuances of different bourbons, helping you select the perfect bottle to take home.
Hamburg: Big-Box Retail and Entertainment
Hamburg, located on the eastern edge of Lexington, is the city’s largest concentration of big-box stores. Costco, Meijer, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Cabela’s, and many other well-known chains are represented in this sprawling retail area.
Hamburg also boasts a large movie theater with IMAX, making it a popular destination for entertainment.
Shopping in Downtown Lexington: A Blend of History and Style
Downtown Lexington offers a unique shopping experience, blending historic charm with a curated selection of shops and galleries. Creatures of Whim, located on Broadway, is a fair-trade shop and cafe offering a variety of items, from crystals and herbal remedies to metaphysical supplies. Failte, on South Upper Street, has been Lexington’s premier Irish shop for over 20 years. For Kentucky souvenirs and equestrian-themed gifts, Keeneland Mercantile on Main Street is a must-visit.
If shopping in Lexington on a Saturday morning, begin by heading to Cheapside Park for the year-round farmer’s market, where you’ll find fresh produce, local crafts, and a vibrant atmosphere. The best shopping in Lexington, Kentucky is truly diverse and reflective of the city’s unique character.
In conclusion, the best shopping in Lexington, Kentucky has evolved into a dynamic and diverse landscape, offering a blend of established retail destinations and unique local businesses. Whether you’re seeking high-end fashion, handcrafted goods, vintage treasures, or a taste of Kentucky bourbon, Lexington has something to satisfy every shopper’s desire.
