Spotlight on the 2025 EFA Conference + Expo: Your Guide to Dining and Exploring Lexington

Every spring, Lexington welcomes professionals from across the country for the Environments for Aging (EFA) Conference + Expo—a gathering that’s as inspiring as the city itself. If you attended the 2025 event (or are planning for next year), you might be wondering how to make the most of your time outside the conference halls. Here’s your guide to savoring Lexington’s best eats, attractions, and post-conference hideaways.

Where to Dine: From Southern Comfort to Modern Bites

• Carson’s Food & Drink: A local favorite blending classic Southern dishes with contemporary flair. Don’t miss their bourbon-glazed salmon!
• Dudley’s on Short: Perfect for a celebratory dinner—think elegant ambiance and a menu stacked with Kentucky classics.
• Blue Door Smokehouse: For a casual lunch, nothing beats their slow-cooked barbecue and homemade sides.
• Lockbox: Located inside the 21c Museum Hotel, this spot serves up artful plates and creative cocktails in a gallery-like setting.

Must-See Attractions in the Horse Capital

• Keeneland Race Course: Experience the thrill of live horse racing or take a guided tour of this historic track.
• Mary Todd Lincoln House: Step into history at the childhood home of Abraham Lincoln’s wife, right in downtown Lexington.
• Lexington Distillery District: Explore repurposed warehouses filled with craft breweries, distilleries, and live music venues.
• Raven Run Nature Sanctuary: Unwind on scenic trails just a short drive from the city center—perfect for a post-conference reset.

Post-Conference Wind-Downs

After a day of sessions, treat yourself to:

• Bourbon Tastings: Sample Kentucky’s finest at local distilleries like Town Branch or Bluegrass Distillers.
• Live Music: Catch a show at The Burl, a favorite venue for everything from bluegrass to indie rock.
• Downtown Walks: Stroll through the historic streets, grab a coffee, and soak up the city’s vibrant energy.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning attendee, Lexington’s blend of tradition, hospitality, and innovation will make your EFA Conference experience unforgettable. Here’s to great conversations—and even better adventures in the Horse Capital!

For more conference highlights, visit efamagazine.com.