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Senior programs, aging services, community centers, Global Lex, Family Care Center, sister cities and information for families with children

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Includes traffic, LEXserv, trash, recycling, environmental information, parking and transportation

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Includes applications for starting a business, tax forms, building and zoning permits

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To visit the official website of the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau (VisitLex), go to  visitlex.com .

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About VisitLEX

See more in: about, why we're here.

To market and sell Lexington’s Bluegrass region by driving economic impact through tourism and meetings to enhance the quality of life for Lexingtonians.

VisitLEX is the local convention and visitors bureau. We are a standalone organization funded by a room tax charged to visitors at hotels, motels and other rentals. According to state law, these funds must be used to promote convention and tourist activities and facilities. Why? Because tourism fuels our economy, improves our quality of life and is a competitive industry that demands comprehensive sales, marketing, advertising, service and engagement to compete with other cities. 

Tourism is important for our economy. According to a study for the Kentucky Department of Tourism (by Tourism Economics in 2022), Fayette County tourism had $1.5 billion in economic impact, which also generated more than 11,000 jobs. 

Tourism improves the lives of Lexington residents . In addition to providing jobs and attracting investment and spending, there are numerous other benefits:

The state and local taxes generated by tourism equate to a $536 tax savings for every household.

VisitLEX  supports numerous events that local residents enjoy and improve the quality of life. Recently, VisitLEX has supported: Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration activities, FoodChain (Nourish and FEAST), The Lexington Children’s Museum, The Lexington Theater Company, Black Soil, Black Yarn Productions, Legacy Equine Academy, Bike LEX, DV8 Vocational Training Foundation, Pride Festival, The Lexington Philharmonic, LexArts, Lexington African American Sports Hall of Fame, the African-American Heritage Walking Tour, and many more.

Tourism thrives through strategic sales, marketing, services, and media efforts. VisitLEX and its team markets the community to meeting planners, travel writers, sporting tournament planners, film scouts and more. VisitLEX travels regularly to connect with those audiences by exhibiting at conferences. It also uses advertising, social media, and outreach to national and international travel writers.  

For example, the VisitLEX team annually books more than $40 million of economic impact to Lexington from meetings, conventions, sports and equine groups. These efforts are the result of proactive sales and solicitation efforts, inclusive of attending 30 meeting planner trade shows annually, bringing 80 meeting planners to Lexington for a complete city site visit, and hosting events for 50 local meeting planners to help these planners bring meetings to the city where they live.

VisitLEX often serves as the initial sales outreach for the newly renovated $300 million Central Bank Center. VisitLEX is an essential cog in driving the return on public investment in the city’s convention center. 

For 2023, VisitLEX booked 31 conventions representing 30,000 room nights and $13.5 million in economic impact.

For 2024, VisitLEX booked 33 conventions representing 36,000 room nights and $16.2 million in economic impact.

Post-COVID, VisitLEX has had two years of record-breaking numbers across multiple metrics, most importantly in overall hotel revenue. Hotel room revenue for Lexington in 2022 was more than $229 million and more than $243 million for 2023.   

Over the past year, Lexington has benefited from an increase of up to 30% in visitation from our target markets.

In 2017, VisitLEX kicked off its national PR strategy, which includes pitching stories to national media via our PR partner, and hosting journalists, which has resulted in press within major news outlets like Conde Nast and Travel + Leisure.

Other media coverage has included PR campaigns such as “The Queen’s Gambit Hotel Room Takeover”, “Horse Kicks” and “Hey Aliens, Look At Lexington.” These effots have resulted in over 10 billion impressions with an estimated ad value of more than $350 million. In addition, stories have been published in  The Washington Post, CNN, USA Today, New York Post, Forbes, Huff Post, People, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Toronto Sun, the Globe and more.

In 2023, pitching efforts lead to a feature on the TODAY Show, which garnered more than 23 million impressions.

We have received over 1 million uses of #sharethelex.

VisitLEX positively impacts the economic well-being of Lexington-Fayette County by marketing the city and the Bluegrass Region as an outstanding destination for leisure travel, business travel, meetings and conventions, and by providing quality service to these visitors.

To market and sell Lexington’s Bluegrass region by driving economic impact through tourism and meetings to enhance the quality of life for Lexingtonians.

Inspiring travel to Lexington’s Bluegrass region where the hospitality makes everyone feel at home.

The Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau (VisitLEX) is a public service organization authorized by the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS 91A.350) and established in 1974 by a Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) ordinance. VisitLEX's adopted budgets, financial statements and audit reports can be viewed on the Department of Local Government's website at  https://kydlgweb.ky.gov/ .

VisitLEX is headed by a nine-member Commission appointed by the Mayor for three-year terms. Three commissioners are selected as representatives of the hotel and motel industry. One commissioner is selected as a representative of the restaurant industry. One commissioner is selected from a list submitted by Commerce Lexington. Four commissioners are selected at large by the Mayor and must be residents of Fayette County. In addition to the nine appointed members, there may be up to a seven-member non-voting ex-officio panel. The VisitLEX Commission meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at the VisitLEX administrative offices at 8:30 am, unless otherwise noted.

VisitLEX is a public service organization authorized by the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS 91A.350) and established in 1974 by a Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) ordinance. Operating revenue is generated by occupied hotel/motel rooms, short-term rentals and campgrounds. in Lexington-Fayette County. By state statute, hotels collect an eight and one half percent occupancy tax from their guests. Four and one-half percent of that revenue goes to the Central Bank Center for debt repayment. The remaining four percent goes to the Bureau.

VisitLEX's adopted budgets, financial statements and audit reports can be viewed on the Department of Local Government's website at  https://kydlgweb.ky.gov/ .

The VisitLEX office is located at 215 West Main Street, Suite 150. Regular office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The Vice President of Finance and Operations serves as the official custodian of records. KY residents may request public records by submitting the  approved form  or by written request. Completed forms or requests may be hand delivered or submitted via USPS mail to the VisitLEX office, by facsimile to (859) 254-4555 or via  email . Should paper copies of records be required the cost is $0.10 per page.

Diversity Statement

We’re on a journey. VisitLEX is committed to reflecting and upholding the value of diversity of thought, culture, and lifestyles that are inherent in the Lexington community as we welcome visitors from around the world to our destination. Practicing genuine and inclusive hospitality is a shared responsibility for every employee. Our commitment to inclusion is a dedicated long-term mindset that celebrates the unique personal differences that make us a stronger organization and help make Lexington a world-class destination that is welcoming and inclusive of all.

Civil Rights Act Title VI

VisitLEX complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and will not subject any person to discrimination based on race, color, age, disability or national origin by any program or activity. VisitLEX will provide meaningful access to alternate formats for the benefits, services, information and other important portions of programs and activities for individuals with Limited English Proficiency.  Requests for alternate formats can be submitted to the Vice President of Finance and Operations ( [email protected] ) or (859) 233-1221. Complaints should be directed to the Vice President of Finance and Operations ( [email protected] ) or (859) 233-1221.

VisitLEX Brand Standards  |  Download the VisitLEX Brand Standards Manual

Visitlex is a member of the destinations international (formerly destination marketing association international).  founded in 1914, destinations international promotes sound professional practices in travel marketing and in the solicitation and servicing of meetings and conventions., lexington is known for..., creative culture, restaurants, free visitors guide.

Request a printed copy of our Visitors Guide and learn more about everything the Horse Capital of the World has to offer.

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Visit Lex: Welcome back: Tourism is taking off again

By Mary Quinn Ramer

We’ve come a long way since COVID-19 cost the tourism industry hundreds of millions of dollars in lost economic impact. The recovery is the result of pent-up demand, but it also is a concerted, collaborative and creative effort to ensure that visitors choose Lexington.

People like what Lexington has to offer, and VisitLEX is working to showcase everything that sets us apart. We’re investing funds from the city and state into a compelling new trade show booth as we hit the road to more than 20 markets to take Lexington to the country and the globe. We invited tour operators to Lexington in October to see our new crown jewel, the Central Bank Center, as well as other unique destinations. And, we’re testing new markets such as Toronto and expanding our investment in diversity.

The city is well poised to have its best and brightest tourism year yet.

Together, the VisitLEX and the Central Bank Center sales teams have booked 54 conventions and meetings for the next three years, which will bring 200,000 attendees, 70,600 guest rooms and $62 million in economic impact to Lexington.

The response we are getting from visitors has been tremendous. Matt Chaliff, executive secretary of the Kentucky FFA, said: “Lexington has a great presence in terms of a destination, unique attractions and a pretty downtown. Your downtown Lexington hospitality crew did a super job hosting our 2022 Annual FFA Convention, and the new Central Bank Center is an outstanding venue.”

What tourism means for all of us Why is this important? Because tourism helps fuel our economy and improves our quality of life by helping support businesses and amenities that rely—at least in part—on tourism.

A new state survey conducted by Tourism Economics, “Economic Impact of Visitors in Kentucky in 2021,” found that Fayette County ranked second in the state with direct visitor spending of $880 million and total spending of $1.27 billion last year.

Overall, visitor spending in Kentucky increased by 31% in 2021 with an economic impact of almost $11.2 billion, more than 83,000 jobs, and $808 million in local and state taxes.

This year has brought even more momentum. Marquee events are coming back to the Kentucky Horse Park, and the year will be capped off by the Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland in November.

Here are some key findings: • Strong support for tourism: Approximately nine in 10 think tourism is good for the city. • Tourism is good for the economy and quality of life. • More than eight in 10 agree that tourism is important to the local economy and attracts new businesses. • Two-thirds assert that without the tourism tax revenues, locals would pay higher state and local taxes. •  Seven in 10 agree that tourism helps recruit workforce. • Three-fourths agree that they have more things to do in Lexington because of tourism, that it supports the preservation of local culture and protects the community’s authenticity. • Lexingtonians are welcoming: Approximately nine in 10 residents welcome visitors, promote Lexington to friends and family, and are proud of what the city offers. In addition, eight in 10 residents like the way VisitLEX advertising represents the city and believe VisitLEX is doing a good job at promoting and advocating for tourism.

Concerns identified included traffic impact. In addition, most people want accommodation-sharing services to be regulated, just like hotels and other property-rental businesses. They also would like to see more history attractions.

VisitLEX and all our partners will continue to work to ensure that Lexington is a wonderful place to visit and to live, where all are welcome and find something for them. That’s how we attract tourists, jobs and residents to keep Lexington vibrant and healthy. l

Mary Quinn Ramer is president of VisitLEX, a destination sales, marketing, and service organization charged with promoting Lexington’s Bluegrass Region for the purpose of attracting visitors and growing the economy. For more information go to visitlex.com.

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Get to Know Mary Quinn Ramer | President, VisitLEX

by Adrielle Stapleton | Aug 7, 2019 | All Blog Posts

• Tell us about what you do at your company

I am the president of VisitLEX.

• How do you define leadership?

Leadership, for me, is all about service: service to others, the community, to God. There is a particular verse of Scripture that has been my primary inspiration as a leader: do justice, love kindness (mercy), walk humbly. (Micah 6:8)

• What was your biggest professional challenge and what did you learn?

There have been numerous opportunities to learn through challenges in my career. When VisitLEX first launched the iconic blue horse, there were naysayers and critics, including many in key leadership positions. But I could see the potential of the blue horse and what it could grow into for this community. I learned to trust my judgment. I also learned to exercise patience. Big ideas need time to take root.

• Is there an achievement or contribution that you are most proud of?

I feel incredibly blessed to have been a part of many meaningful endeavors, so it’s hard to pick just one. I was touched when Centre College honored me as Young Alumna of the Year. I’m equally proud to have received two Public Relations Society of America’s Silver Anvil awards, the highest in the industry. And I am truly thrilled with how the VisitLEX space came together in the recently restored Old Courthouse. The space is a warm welcome to all, and I love the commitment our staff has to incredible, gracious hospitality.

• What is one thing that people might be surprised to know about you?

I am the oldest of 20 grandchildren.

• What inspires you?

Acts of kindness, big and small. And being outdoors—especially on the water in a kayak.

Mary Quinn Ramer will speak at the Women Leading Kentucky Roundtable on August 29, 2019. As President of VisitLEX , Mary Quinn oversees all administrative, marketing and convention activities for the destination organization. Mary Quinn brings 20 years of tourism, marketing communications, and event planning experience to VisitLEX. 

Prior to becoming President, Mary Quinn spent seven years as the Vice President of Marketing at the organization. During her tenure, she has overseen a successful rebranding effort and launch of the iconic blue horse brand, coordinated all Bureau activities for two international equine events, launched an original culinary tourism initiative, launched a national PR campaign for the destination, and has recently overseen the implementation of blue horse branded merchandise. Working with city officials and architects, Mary Quinn was an active participant in the restoration of the Old Fayette Courthouse, which now houses VisitLEX headquarters and their state-of-the-art visitor center.

In addition, Mary Quinn is active with numerous tourism-related organizations, including membership on the Kentucky Horse Park Commission and the boards of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association, Horse Country, Inc., Rural Land Management Board, Sister Cities, Equestrian Events International, LexArts, and McDowell House Museum. She is also a member of the Breeders’ Cup 2020 Host Committee.

Mary Quinn has been fortunate to be involved in many award-winning projects over the years. She is a proud recipient of the Public Relations Society of America’s top honor, the Silver Anvil, as well as the numerous marketing awards from the Kentucky Travel Industry Association, including Most Innovative Award in both 2017 and 2018. In 2015, Mary Quinn received the Lois Mateus Networking Award from the Kentucky Distillers Association and the Bourbon Women organization.

Mary Quinn is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Centre College, and in 2008, she received the Distinguished Young Alumna Award from the College.

Mary Quinn lives in downtown Lexington with her family and enjoys traveling–across the globe and to interesting spots in her beloved Commonwealth, trying out new restaurants, spending time with her precious nieces and nephews, and savoring every last bite of a gingerbread man from Burke’s Bakery in her hometown Danville.

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