Youtube Video on Historic Gratz Park Area and the Gratz Park Inn

The Gratz Park Inn is Lexington’s only historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown 2 blocks from Main Street. The Inn is part of a collection of 16 distinctive buildings occupying land first settled in 1781. (The youtube video will give you a quick tour of this beautiful area and more about the Inn.) Gratz Park is surrounded by restaurants, fashion boutiques, antique shops, historical landmarks, as well as entertainment at the Lexington Opera House or Kentucky Theatre. The Inn has been restored to its original grace with a collection of antiques and fine period reproductions. 

I have never stayed at the Inn, but I graduated from The University of Kentucky in Lexington, living first in Patterson Hall as a Freshman, than Keenland Hall as a Sophomore, and finally at 238 East Maxwell, “where you will find the Kappas at home.” UK was a fabulous place to go to school in the mid 50’s.  I arrived the fall of 1956 with my Northern accent, wearing my white bobby socks turned down, saying “you guys” instead of “you all.” By the time I left I was a basketball fan for life, could read a racing form, was devoted to the southern poetic voice, the history of southern food and hospitality, but still a Republican. I picked the Gratz Park Inn for this #Challenge tour because it exemplifies the asset and opportunity preserving historic architecture can mean for a community. Preserving the history of our core downtown areas, giving new life and purpose to the architectural significant buildings, is essential in the success of revitalization in areas that have been in decline. After viewing the video, I know you will add Lexington, KY. to your wish list for future travel.  

This lovely Inn is a perfect place to stay while exploring the horse farms and drinking some fine bourbon.