News Summary
Lexington, Kentucky, has made its mark in the travel industry with two hotels earning top rankings by U.S. News & World Report. The 21c Museum Hotel is recognized as the 8th best hotel in Kentucky, while the Elwood Hotel & Suites takes the 10th spot. The rankings highlight the exceptional quality and services offered by these establishments, emphasizing Lexington’s growing reputation as a travel destination.
Lexington has secured a prominent place in the travel industry, with two of its hotels earning accolades from U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 ranking of Kentucky’s top hotels. The 21c Museum Hotel, located in downtown Lexington, has been recognized as the 8th best hotel in the state, while the Elwood Hotel & Suites follows closely behind at the 10th position. These rankings are based on hotel quality evaluations that take into account guest ratings, hotel class, and various awards.
The rankings reveal a strong presence of Louisville hotels, which dominate the list by claiming 11 out of the top 15 slots. Leading the pack is Hotel Covington in Covington, which has been rated as the top hotel overall in Kentucky.
21c Museum Hotel: A Fusion of Art and Hospitality
Located at 167 W. Main St., Lexington, the 21c Museum Hotel stands out for its art-centric theme that is woven into the fabric of the historic building that once housed the Fayette National Bank, constructed in 1913. This unique hotel offers guests a diverse collection of art exhibitions, an on-site museum, and original artwork displayed in its accommodations. The property boasts 88 spacious and well-appointed rooms, making it a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing stay for guests.
Room rates for the 21c Museum Hotel start around $150, with prices potentially exceeding $500 depending on the type of room and the date selected for the stay. The hotel features the Lockbox Restaurant and Lounge, which focuses on local cuisine and prioritizes high-quality ingredients.
Elwood Hotel & Suites: Modern Comfort and Quality Amenities
The Elwood Hotel & Suites, situated at 444 Parkway Drive, Lexington, has received acclaim for its quality and services, securing the 10th place in the U.S. News ranking. This 4-star hotel features more than 60 rooms equipped with modern amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. Notable features of the hotel include a restaurant, fitness center, conference space, concierge services, and a vibrant bar and lounge.
The on-site restaurant, Fiddletree, has gained recognition by winning a 2021 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award. It offers a diverse menu that includes brunch options, sandwiches, salads, and dinner entrees such as salmon and shrimp, catering to a wide range of tastes. Room prices at Elwood Hotel & Suites start at approximately $130 and can reach beyond $300 per night.
Ranking Methodology and Broader Impact
The U.S. News & World Report rankings assess over 30,000 luxury properties across the country. Their methodology includes star ratings, expert opinions, and guest reviews, assessing the overall quality and guest satisfaction of each hotel. These ratings aim to provide a reliable evaluation of hotel quality to help travelers in making informed decisions about their accommodations.
As the travel and tourism industry continues to thrive, hotels in Lexington are being promoted for their exceptional hospitality experiences, which contribute significantly to the region’s appeal. The success of the 21c Museum Hotel and the Elwood Hotel & Suites in this ranking exemplifies Lexington’s commitment to providing quality lodging options that cater to diverse traveler needs.
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Additional Resources
- U.S. News & World Report: Five Lexington Hotels Earn Top Honors
- LEX18: New Ways to Enjoy 21c Museum Hotel in Downtown Lexington
- WDRB: Lexington Expects $10 Million Economic Impact as NCAA Tournament Host
- Kentucky.com: Economic Boost from NCAA Tournament for Lexington Hotels
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington
