DESTINATION & VENUE
THE CENTRAL BANK CENTER - OUR WPC26 HOST VENUE
The Central Bank Center is an entertainment, convention and sports complex located on an 11-acre site in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. It features a convention center, the Hyatt Regency Hotel, and Rupp Arena. It opened in 1976.
LOCATION AND PARKING
Central Bank Center (CBC)
430 W Vine St
Lexington, KY 40507
GET TO KNOW LEXINGTON
Lexington is a front porch kind of city. A welcoming place to unwind in comfort and style. A place to gather with friends and family, sip a glass of bourbon, and savor an unforgettable meal. A place where breathtaking natural beauty lives alongside a vibrant creative culture that you’ll want to return to again and again. We’d certainly love to have you.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Lexington was founded in 1775 when settlers named the area after the Battle of Lexington in Massachusetts, marking it as one of the earliest American settlements west of the Allegheny Mountains. Officially chartered in 1782, the city quickly grew due to its location in the fertile Bluegrass region, becoming a hub for agriculture, trade, and education.
By the early 19th century, Lexington was known as the "Athens of the West" for its cultural institutions, including Transylvania University, one of the oldest universities west of the Appalachians. The city also became renowned for horse breeding, a tradition that continues today and defines much of its identity and economy.
In 1974, Lexington merged with Fayette County to form a unified government, now known as Lexington-Fayette Urban County. Today, the city balances its historic roots with modern growth, serving as a center for education, healthcare, and equine industries, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
GETTING HERE
Blue Grass Airport is only 6 miles from downtown Lexington.
EXPLORE LEXINGTON - AND STAY A WHILE
There is no shortage of ways to explore and experience this fantastic destination. Check out the resources below for ideas on how you can spend some time before or after WPC26:
Things to Do
Horses
Outdoors
Restaurants
Bourbon
Bars & Breweries
WPC26 HOST UTILITIES
Part of what makes WPC so special is the unique character brought to each conference by our destination. The event would not be possible without the support and commitment from our host utilities and all they contribute in terms of content, culture, and volunteer support. A huge thank you to our team in Lexington this year!
Kentucky American Water
