Summer — the season of neighborhood cookouts, popsicle juice dripping down sticky fingers, and road trips. Call us car-zy, but this season brings an abundance of nostalgia, especially when it comes to driving down the highway while blasting The Proclaimers’ “I’m Gonna Be.”

That’s why we’re excited to kick off Hit the Road. In this summer road trip series, we will feature three destinations throughout June, July, and August — each with its own theme. We’ll be talking outdoor adventures, 30-mile getaways, and something for the foodies.

Before you pack your bags, here are some of our recommendations to prepare locally:

🥤 Stock up on road trip essentials

Swing by one of these LEX spots to stock up on snacks, drinks, and coffee to minimize your stops during the road trip.

Third Street Stuff, 257 N. Limestone

Fuel up with countless coffee combos + Lexington-themed lattes. Get a little pick-me-up with an allergy-friendly treat for those moments when you find yourself asking, are we there yet?

Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, 1971 N. Broadway

Top off your tank + grab a ham biscuit in Clark’s Cafe at this one-stop shop. Already hit the road? Don’t worry - Clark’s has 60+ locations in the area.

Wilson’s Grocery, 1010 Cramer Ave.

Switch out the gas station grub for a make-your-own sammie at this nostalgic neighborhood deli. Or, branch out with a menu favorite, like the Apple-A-Day sandwich for pimento cheese, ham + green apple.

🎶 Create a road trip playlist

Check out these local artists + add some of their tunes to your road trip rotation.

Brother Smith, “Spencer Co. Wine”
Magnolia Boulevard, “My Old Friend”
Sour Cream, “Dirty Lemon”
Bonus: Listen to a local podcast or audiobook

🚘 Get your car ready

Check the fluids + car battery. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or need a last-minute oil change before you go, head to one of these local car shops.

Boots Autobody, 648 Bizzell Dr.
Master Tech Auto, 1200 N. Broadway

Bonus: Find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank

🐶 Don’t forget about fido

Be sure to line up accommodations for your pet while you’re away. Reach out to one of the many local pet sitters or pet boarding facilities. Here are a couple:

Central Kentucky Pet Resort, 1364 Lexington Rd.
Pet suites, 2057 Bryant Rd.