Years ago, shopping in Lexington, Kentucky, was mainly a choice between malls and department stores. Fortunately, things have changed. A “local first” approach is now popular, bringing back charming mom-and-pop shops. Though Lexington still has some sprawling shopping developments, you’ll find independent boutiques and vintage shops scattered throughout the city. Part of the charm is discovering hidden gems and meeting shop owners in these unique spots.
Julietta Market has revitalized an old Greyhound bus station at North Limestone and Loudon Avenue, creating a vibrant 23,000-square-foot marketplace. Over 60 small-business kiosks inside let entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds sell their creations, while additional shops and eateries surround the market. As a nonprofit welcoming marginalized groups, Julietta Market provides a community space with pop-up events, offering a social setting for purchasing creative products that support good causes. Among its kiosks, Treehouse Goods, run by local artists, features handmade jewelry and distinctive gifts.
Lexington only has one indoor mall left, but it’s a big one. Fayette Mall, located on Nicholasville Road, includes more than 175 shops covering over 1.1 million square feet, along with kiosks, restaurants, and a food court. Surrounded by a variety of shops and dining venues, this area is one of Lexington’s busiest shopping hubs. While the mall closes at 6 p.m. on Sundays, hours often extend during the holiday season. Despite being anchored by major chains like Dillard’s and Macy’s, you can find unique local art pieces at Artique Gallery.
Joseph-Beth Booksellers, across from Fayette Mall in Lexington Green, has evolved from a bookstore into one of Lexington’s most inviting shopping spots. With a fireplace, couches, a bistro, and lakeside outdoor space, it’s a place where people love to linger. Besides books, Joseph-Beth offers unique Kentucky products and stylish souvenirs. In the back, Palmers Fresh Grill serves some of Lexington’s finest seafood. Nearby, Peacocks & Pearls is a fashionable boutique run by a mother-daughter duo.
The Summit at Fritz Farm is a chic, outdoor shopping area at Nicholasville Road and Man-O-War Boulevard. It houses Lexington’s only Apple Store and Whole Foods, plus over 60 trendy shops. With a compact layout, The Summit allows you to park once and walk to everything, including more than 20 restaurants. A communal outdoor space with a fire pit encourages socializing in good weather. While Nicholasville Road often gets busy, a parking garage and alternative exits offer relief.
Lexington boasts an array of independently owned boutique shops scattered throughout the city. These stores need your support and provide a personalized shopping experience hard to find in larger outlets. You’ll find numerous boutiques along East Maxwell Street, High Street, and in the Chevy Chase area. For rare books, Black Swan Books has been a staple for over 30 years. Bella Rose and Calypso Boutique offer designer fashion on Maxwell.
Southland Drive features classic shopping centers and mom-and-pop stores selling everything from handmade candy to guitars. Embracing a retro vibe, the area is adorned with vintage signage and outdoor art installations. Anchoring the neighborhood’s west side, Good Foods Coop is a local favorite. Other shops include a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Local Lex Market, and several comic and music stores. After shopping, enjoy German beer and cuisine at Marikka’s Bier Stube. The Lexington Farmers Market holds its Sunday session here.
SQecial Media has been Lexington’s go-to spot for quirky items since 1972, offering books, incense, religious artifacts, journals, and unique gifts. Next door, CD Central, another longstanding local business, has hosted performances by well-known artists. Street Scene, located on Regency Road, is a classy, second-hand store with a rotating selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, furniture, and home decor. Adjoining Coffee Times is a favorite local cafe with fun and quirky gifts, while J&H Lanmark across the street specializes in outdoor gear.
Just a 15-minute drive on Leestown Road, Pop’s Resale features vintage clothing, accessories, records, and interesting artifacts in a colorful setting. Leaving the Bluegrass region empty-handed without Kentucky bourbon is unthinkable. Instead of relying on reviews, visit local experts for a unique purchasing experience. House of Bourbon on West Main Street, opened by the two Justins in 2018, offers tastings and insightful lessons in bourbon culture. They have convenient parking adjacent to their shop.
Hamburg, on Lexington’s eastern edge, hosts the largest concentration of big-box stores such as Costco, Meijer, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy. Amidst these giants, smaller stores and restaurants vie for attention. With plentiful parking, navigating Hamburg during holiday shopping requires patience. Man-O-War Boulevard is the main route, but you can also enter via Liberty Road or Sir Barton Way.
While many hesitate to shop downtown, parking is relatively easy with several garages and metered spots. Downtown hotels, like the 21c Museum Hotel, offer proximity to numerous charming shops and galleries. Creatures of Whim on Broadway sells fair-trade items, ranging from crystals to metaphysical supplies. Failte on South Upper Street has been the region’s leading Irish shop for over 20 years, and Keeneland Mercantile offers classy equestrian-themed gifts on Main Street.
Be sure to explore historic sites and museums while downtown. If you’re shopping on a Saturday morning, start at Cheapside Park for the year-round farmer’s market—it’s not just about the vegetables.
