Kentucky offers so many historic sites that allow you to step back in time and learn about our state’s past. These experiences are even better when combined with natural beauty and several of them fit both descriptions. McConnell Springs in Lexington is a hidden gem park in Kentucky that represents a very important time and event in the history of the area. This is where the city of Lexington began and to this day it is filled with fascinating history, as well as natural beauty in a variety of unique forms.
McConnell Springs Park is a treasured part of the Lexington area, especially since this is where the city was founded and eventually named.
Tripadvisor/brockey William McConnell settled in the area in 1775 and when he and his brother Francis heard that the Battle at Lexington and Concord had started the American Revolution, they named the city after this moment in history.
Today, the park not only marks this spot, but also celebrates the unique natural beauty and features of the land.
Christa Sturgeon/@christa_sturgeon242, Contributed Photo You’ll want to reserve an hour or two to wander around and see the wildlife, plants, bodies of water, and educational buildings.
This walkway over the pond is particularly scenic and a great spot to watch for wildlife.
Christa Sturgeon/@christa_sturgeon242, Contributed Photo This is a manmade pond to catch storm water runoff, so it’s both beautiful and practical.
McConnell Springs may be best known for its eye-catching Blue Hole.
Tripadvisor/Gabe10101 William McConnell, all the way back in the 1700s, experienced this same odd sight and you can view it for yourself during a visit. It’s 15 feet deep, which is what gives it the unique blue color. You can read more about the Blue Hole and the other natural features of the park on the McConnell Springs website, linked below.
As you wander around the property, there are charming pathways to explore.
Tripadvisor/cheryl h Keep an eye out for native plant species, especially within the meadow and garden areas of the park.
This historic property was almost not preserved and the fact that you can visit it today and learn about its past is quite remarkable.
Tripadvisor/Scott M The city and hundreds of volunteers have worked to preserve and restore the land and make it an enjoyable place for visitors. If you’re interested in the history in particular, be sure to check for upcoming events on the park’s website.
Also, make a stop at this stunning Bur Oak tree that is over 200 years old.
Tripadvisor/316melee The tree itself tells a story of the history of this land and it stands as a reminder of all that has happened here and how the city of Lexington has grown and evolved over the years.
Historic destinations like this hidden gem park in Kentucky make for a great afternoon outing to get some fresh air while learning about the history of our state. If you’re from Lexington or enjoy the area and have yet to see where it all began, stop by McConnell Springs Park for a scenic and informative stroll. Have you been to this hidden gem park in Kentucky? What other historic parks do you love? Let us know in the comments!
Tripadvisor/brockey
William McConnell settled in the area in 1775 and when he and his brother Francis heard that the Battle at Lexington and Concord had started the American Revolution, they named the city after this moment in history.
Christa Sturgeon/@christa_sturgeon242, Contributed Photo
You’ll want to reserve an hour or two to wander around and see the wildlife, plants, bodies of water, and educational buildings.
This is a manmade pond to catch storm water runoff, so it’s both beautiful and practical.
Tripadvisor/Gabe10101
William McConnell, all the way back in the 1700s, experienced this same odd sight and you can view it for yourself during a visit. It’s 15 feet deep, which is what gives it the unique blue color. You can read more about the Blue Hole and the other natural features of the park on the McConnell Springs website, linked below.
Tripadvisor/cheryl h
Keep an eye out for native plant species, especially within the meadow and garden areas of the park.
Tripadvisor/Scott M
The city and hundreds of volunteers have worked to preserve and restore the land and make it an enjoyable place for visitors. If you’re interested in the history in particular, be sure to check for upcoming events on the park’s website.
Tripadvisor/316melee
The tree itself tells a story of the history of this land and it stands as a reminder of all that has happened here and how the city of Lexington has grown and evolved over the years.
For more information on McConnell Springs Park, check out its website.
And for another blue spring in Kentucky, take a look at this emerald gem not far from Mammoth Cave.
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Address: McConnell Springs, 416 Rebmann Ln, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
