We save money for many things: retirement, education, and leaving a legacy. We also save and invest in order to enjoy life. While a dream vacation (Hawaii or Italy, anyone?) may take a while, a smaller amount of savings can be used for a great “staycation” — right here in the Bluegrass.

We recently chatted with the team at WealthSouth, which knows a thing or two about the area since the organization started here in 1909, to get their recommendations for the ultimate staycation. Here's what they had to say:

Manchester Mania

"I love live music, so I would plan a staycation around a concert at the Manchester Music Hall. This venue is great — it's small, but still attracts well-known artists.

I'd start the evening by visiting the nearby Distillery District to have dinner at my favorite pizza place, Goodfellas, then head to Manchester Music Hall for the concert. For a real staycation feel, I'd stay in the new hotel, The Manchester, which is a luxury hotel featuring high-end rooms, great dining options, and a rooftop bar, located right next door to the Manchester Music Hall." – Jeff Zinger, Lending Manager

Enjoying the past and present

"Since elementary school, I've always enjoyed studying history. It offers perspective to the present, and provides guidance for the future. I was blessed to have vibrant history teachers who made their lessons interesting and thought-provoking.

One way I honor their memories is serving on the board of the Mary Todd Lincoln House. It's one of the historical jewels of Lexington that gives visitors a wonderful insight into the life and times of one of America’s most fascinating First Ladies. It's easy to be inspired while in rooms that once hosted Abraham Lincoln. It's a great way to spend a free day, and I invite everyone who has yet to visit to come take a tour." – Bill Howell, Lexington Market Director

Coffee, a stroll, shopping + dinner

"A staycation would start with a trip to Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. My order: Either a cup of 100% Kona coffee, or one of their delicious specialty lattes for summer, like the Beach Bonfire. To accompany my coffee, I would pick up a cinnamon roll that Bad Ass Coffee carries in their stores from DV8 Kitchen.

Next on the itinerary: the Arboretum at the University of Kentucky for a walk around the paved loop. From there, I would head to one of the Lexington Public Library locations to pick up a book to read.

The afternoon might start with lunch from The Mousetrap in the Lansdowne Shoppes and then perusing some of the great shops there like The Cotton Patch, Pirie Boutique or Peppermint Palm or heading to Clay Avenue for shopping at Peggy’s Gifts, Monkee’s of Lexington or Linens Limited.

I would cap off the day with my husband for dinner at any one of Lexington’s fantastic restaurants whether it be Bella Café and Grille, Epping’s on Eastside, Dudley’s on Short or Omakase Sushi in Chevy Chase, just to name a few.

All in all, there is so much to do here no matter your interests." – Lee Walker, Senior Portfolio Manager

Taking advantage of town and country

"A perfect staycation for my husband and I involves the city and the country. We would stop in for brunch at Minglewood. They offer all local products made from scratch, and delicious drink specials. Then we'd head to the Lexington Farmers Market downtown (happening every Saturday until 2 p.m.), and spend some time pursuing the local produce, food, arts and crafts, and a variety of other local businesses.

Red River Gorge National Geological Area is a favorite outdoor destination of ours. It's a short drive from Lexington, and offers a ton of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and more. Make sure to have yourself an Ale-8-One and stop by Miguel’s Pizza on your way back to Lexington." – Tyler Terawood, Trust & Loan Assistant

Learn more about WealthSouth's story, how they're committed to helping Lexingtonians achieve their financial goals, and how they can help you start your own financial journey.

Quiz

What's your ideal Bluegrass Staycation? Let us know.