You've heard it here: Lexington is one of our new favorite cities. Amid the lush, rolling hills this area is famous for, there's a renewed spirit in the Horse Capital of the World.

New breweries and boutiques are opening their doors, chefs are putting their spin on traditional Southern dishes, and the city is just getting, well, cooler. Here are some of our favorite bargains and splurges. Put on your riding boots and explore!

Stay

Steal

The Campbell House Close to Keeneland, the Thoroughbred racetrack and auction house, this hotel is a good jumping-off point to see nearby bourbon distilleries. With rooms starting at $109, you can't beat the price.

Splurge

Gratz Park Inn You don't have to be a newlywed to go for the honeymoon suite ($499). It includes a sitting area, bottle of Champagne, and two desserts from Jonathan at Gratz Park (the on-site restaurant).

Eat

Steal

County Club Locally sourced meats (including hog and goat) are the stars here. Try the Poutine, house-made cheese curds served over french fries with a choice of meat ($12). Top it with the vinegar sauce made with West Sixth Brewing IPA.

Splurge

Table Three Ten Head downtown and grab a chair at the 20-seat oak bar (or one of the communal tables) and put in an order for a fromage or charcuterie plate ($18.95 for three choices). Save room for the 14-ounce rib-eye steak ($34) served with sautéed spinach.

Image zoom Charleston Food Film Festival. Photos: on left, Olivia Rae James; on right, courtesy of The Food Film Festival

Drink

Steal

Blue Stallion Brewing Try the Smoked Lager, a good introduction to smoky beers, or the German Pilsner, which uses two German hops for the crisp taste ($5 for 16 ounces).

Splurge

Skybar Located in the penthouse of the Court Square Building, Skybar's view is one of the best in town. Get a private room, and order a bottle of bourbon.

Shop

Steal

Adelé Part home decor and gift store, part interior design service, this Chevy Chase boutique is the perfect place to soak up Lexington style, with finds that include bracelets by Bourbon and Boweties and earrings by Hyla DeWitt.

Splurge

Monkee's This Clay Avenue Boutique carries beloved and popular brands such as Frye, Hunter, and Trina Turk, and they also feature Kentucky-made baubles from W&M Custom Jewelry.

Play

Steal

Town Branch Distillery The hour-long tour ($7) walks visitors through the bourbon- and beer-making processes, both of which take place on the property. It finishes with a tasting of the latest offerings.

Splurge