If you’re looking for a classic Kentucky drive that blends small-town charm with bluegrass beauty, the six-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 60 from Versailles to Lexington is tough to beat. This short but iconic route serves as both a commuter corridor and a scenic drive, connecting the heart of Woodford County to the urban pulse of Lexington, all while offering glimpses of Kentucky’s famous rolling pastures, horse farms, and even an airport or two.
Our journey begins just east of Versailles, right where the Bluegrass Parkway meets U.S. Highway 60. Versailles itself is a picturesque little town known for its historic Main Street, welcoming atmosphere, and proximity to some of Kentucky’s most storied bourbon distilleries and thoroughbred farms. If you have a few extra minutes before your drive, it’s worth exploring the local shops or grabbing a bite at one of the cozy downtown restaurants.
Turning onto U.S. 60, we head east, quickly leaving the Versailles city limits and slipping into the classic Kentucky countryside. This stretch of highway is well-maintained and easy to drive, with wide lanes and gentle curves. One of the first things you’ll notice is the lush, green landscape on either side—a patchwork of meadows and iconic horse farms, framed by the signature plank fencing that’s synonymous with the Bluegrass region. This area is the heart of Kentucky’s equestrian country, and it’s not uncommon to spot thoroughbreds grazing or trainers working horses along the fence lines.
About halfway to Lexington, you’ll pass the intersection with KY-1967 (also known as Old Frankfort Pike), another scenic byway in its own right, which leads northwest toward Midway and Frankfort. This intersection is a gateway for those wanting to explore deeper into horse country or make a detour to Woodford Reserve, one of Kentucky’s most famous bourbon distilleries. But sticking with U.S. 60, we stay on course toward Lexington.
As you approach the outskirts of Lexington, the landscape gradually shifts from rural to suburban. One of the most prominent landmarks on this segment is the Lexington Blue Grass Airport, which sits just to the south of the highway at the intersection with Man O War Boulevard. This regional airport brings a steady hum of activity to the area and, depending on the time of day, you might see small jets and prop planes making their approach as you drive by. There are also several well-known horse farms flanking the airport—this is still very much horse country, right up to the edge of the city.
Entering Lexington proper, the highway gains a bit more traffic, but the drive is still pleasant and straightforward. Just past the airport, U.S. 60 intersects with New Circle Road (KY-4), which acts as Lexington’s primary beltway. Here, we turn south onto New Circle Road, marking the end of this particular journey but opening up a host of options for exploring Lexington’s neighborhoods, downtown attractions, or continuing your drive deeper into the Bluegrass State.
Things to See Along the Route
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Versailles Historic District: Before you hit the road, stroll Main Street and grab coffee or browse antiques.
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Kentucky Horse Farms: Iconic fencing and rolling pastures fill both sides of U.S. 60—keep an eye out for grazing thoroughbreds.
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Old Frankfort Pike (KY-1967): Intersection with U.S. 60; known as one of America’s most beautiful rural drives, and leads to Woodford Reserve.
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Lexington Blue Grass Airport: Airplane spotting, especially if you catch a landing or takeoff.
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Horse Farm Tours: Many farms near the route offer tours with advance reservations.
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Suburban Lexington: Shopping, dining, and easy access to Keeneland Race Course just a few minutes off route.
🗺️ Route Map
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