Lexington Kentucky

Lexington Kentucky is one of the best vacation destinations in Kentucky for participating in fun Lexington events and attractions in a Southern country style atmosphere. Lexington travel guides frequently name the city as the Horse Capital of the World because of the region’s longstanding horse racing tradition.

There are interesting Lexington attractions all over the city, including museums that will interest horse enthusiasts. Information about Kentucky’s native breed of horse, the American Saddlebred, is on display at the American Saddlebred Museum on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park. Artifacts including trophies from American Saddlebred winners, artwork, and photographs are on display and pay tribute to the nostalgia of Kentucky horses.

The Kentucky Horse Park is also one of the many Lexington attractions that centers around horses. The site is home to more than fifty breeds of horses that live on 1,200 acres of green pastures. Besides admiring the horses, the site features farm exhibits that will teach visitors about the equipment that is used to take care of horses. Although the tour takes around four hours, there are enough interesting exhibits and galleries to keep visitors entertained. Even people without an equestrian background will enjoy the park.

For a look at one of the most historical racetracks in the world, take a day trip to the Keeneland Race Course. Thoroughbred horses race from April to October, but tours take place all year. Visitors should note that races don’t occur on Mondays or Tuesdays.

If you’re a baseball enthusiast, a Lexington vacation wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Applebee’s Park, which is where Lexington’s minor league baseball team plays from April to September. The park is new and is reminiscent of old style baseball fields. Many Lexington vacation goers describe the park’s lively atmosphere as a great place for families.

The Aviation Museum of Kentucky at the Bluegrass Airport is open all year and is one of the top Lexington attractions for airplane enthusiasts. See what flying a plane is like in an interactive flight simulator and view rare historical planes from World War II. Besides displays and aviation artifacts, the museum features an interesting gift shop.

Consider taking in the many Lexington events and festivals going on in the city. The Lexington Farmer’s Market is a popular spot to spend your Lexington travel time. Among the things you can buy at the market are freshly grown organic fruits and vegetables, flowers, and locally produced honey. The event takes place every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the summer and moves to an indoor location on Saturdays during the winter. The Bluegrass Farmers Market is another market in Lexington that sells freshly goods from Kentucky farmers. The Lexington Kentucky Market is slightly smaller and takes place on Saturdays from mid-April to December. It is best to check out these Lexington events in the morning for the freshest selection of produce and other goods.

Many people ask wonder when the best time is to take a Lexington vacation. While summer is undoubtedly the most popular time for Lexington travel, visiting the city is fun all year long thanks to a climate that rarely gets below freezing. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or are taking a tour of Lexington Kentucky, you won’t be disappointed with a Lexington vacation.

read more...

Frankfort Kentucky

Frankfort is the capital of Kentucky and is known as a history lover’s paradise. You’ll enjoy taking a Frankfort vacation any time of year thanks to the fascinating variety of historical sites, museums, and a nature reserve.

A visit to the Kentucky Historical Society is a must on any Frankfort vacation. The museum’s main purpose is to present the history of Kentucky in an interesting way that will appeal to people of all ages. The museum achieves this goal by featuring several fascinating exhibits that are worth exploring as you tour Kentucky. The museum shows what it was like the live on the Kentucky Frontier in the late seventeen hundreds and how the Great Depression and World War II influenced the state’s development and its people. One of the most interesting exhibits at the museum is called “Pure Kentucky.” This exhibit presents artifacts from famous historical figures in Kentucky’s past. Including the Historical Society in your Kentucky travel plans is the best way for both adults and children to learn about Kentucky history in an enjoyable way.

Two of the buildings in Frankfort KY are listed in the National Historic Register. These Frankfort Kentucky treasures include the Old State Capitol and the Old State Arsenal, both popular places to stop on Kentucky tours. The buildings were built in the mid 1800’s and have been beautifully preserved throughout the years.

To include even more historical stops to your Frankfort travel experience, visit the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History. Most Frankfort KY tourists are amazed when they learn what a rich and varied history Kentucky has.

You can also visit the famous burial grounds of Daniel Boone and his wife. If you don’t remember from your history books, Daniel Boone was an Appalachian Mountain explorer who opened up a westward trail and led thousands of settlers to present day Missouri.

Liberty Hall is the home of the pioneer senator of Kentucky, John Brown, and was built in 1796. A tour through this famous Frankfort KY historical site will reveal a diverse range of antiques that help tell story of Kentucky history and enhance your Frankfort travel journey. After you’re done with your tour, be sure to visit the boxwood and perennial gardens on the Liberty Hall grounds. The adjacent Kentucky River is one of the most scenic Kentucky rivers in the entire state.

A great way to wrap up your Frankfort vacation is by visiting the Clyde E. Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary, operated by the National Audubon Society. The Frankfort Kentucky center is set amongst 374 acres in a beautiful forest that runs along the Kentucky River. You can hike on the easy grade Kentucky hiking trails or search for fossil imprints that are frequently found in the limestone.

There are many places to stay on a Frankfort vacation, including quaint bed and breakfasts and more luxurious hotels. Many Frankfort Kentucky hotels date back to over one hundred years and offer guests the chance to learn about history while relaxing at the hotel. No matter where you decide to stay, you’ll love the leisurely atmosphere that Frankfort travel offers.

read more...

Florence Kentucky

Florence vacations are great for people who love racing, shopping, and history. From the historical Dinsmore homestead to the modern shops at the Florence Mall Kentucky has something to offer everyone. Florence Kentucky is right outside of Cincinnati, making Florence vacations extremely convenient. If you’re flying into Kentucky, the Cincinnati/North Kentucky International Airport is located near Florence KY.

Florence Kentucky is also home to the Florence Mall. The Florence Mall Kentucky is quite large and offers a good selection of women’s clothing stores as well as bookshops, jewelry stores, and salons. Some of the shops include Ann Taylor Loft, Waldenbooks, and Payless Shoe Store. Bring your kids along to the mall for a fun time in the Build a Bear Workshop. Children can pick out their own teddy bear to stuff and then bring the bear’s personality to life by selecting teddy bear sized clothing.

There are other shopping opportunities besides the Florence Mall Kentucky. If you like comic books, be sure to check out the Comic Book World, which sells a large selection of graphic novels and games among other things. There are dedicated comic book enthusiasts who are very knowledgeable about antique comic books and will be able to help you locate almost any type of memorabilia for your collection at home.

Florence vacations are popular because of the historical Dinsmore Homestead which provides a glimpse into rural life in the 19th century. Take a tour through the Dinsmore homestead and see the historical documents, records, and belongings of five generations. If touring old mansions isn’t your cup of tea, stay outside and enjoy the hiking trails on the grounds of the Dinsmore Homestead.

Florence vacations should include some action packed adventure at the Florence Speedway. Visitors can see a car race every Saturday from March to October. Some of the races that can be seen at the Speedway are “modifieds,” “super dirt stocks,” and “late models.”

Turfway Park is a great place to catch some horse racing in Florence Kentucky. If you’ve never experienced horse racing before, you’re in for a treat. Thoroughbred horses race throughout the fall, winter, and early spring. The races taking place at Turfway Park, including the Kentucky Cup Day of Champions, is often regarded as some of the best horse racing in the Tri-State area. Admission and parking is free, so even if you aren’t a horse racing fan, spending a couple of hours watching a race is worth your time.

For some whimsical humor and a chance to revisit another era of Florence KY history, check out the Rabbit Hash General Store. The Rabbit Hash General Store has been operating since 1831 and frequently holds events such as barn dances. Visitors can buy mugs, t-shirts, and other souvenirs to remember their visit to the tiny Northern Kentucky store.

read more...

Bowling Green Kentucky

Bowling Green Kentucky is home to Western Kentucky University, the National Corvette Museum, and all sorts of other Bowling Green attractions and Kentucky sights that will make for an interesting vacation.

Some people like to start their Bowling Green vacations by visiting Chaney’s Dairy Farm. Here you can get a few scoops of delicious fresh homemade ice cream and tour a working dairy farm. This provides an excellent educational opportunity for children, as they get to see baby Jersey calves and participate in a hands-on learning center where they can learn how to milk a cow. The Kentucky tours run from April to October and are by reservation only, however the main barn where you can buy dairy products is open daily. The farm hosts all kinds of family events, so check with them before you start planning your next Bowling Green vacations to see what they have in store.

The Beech Bend Park and Splash Lagoon is one of the top Bowling Green attractions and one of the main reasons you should consider a Kentucky vacation. The amusement park is located right next to the Barren River and is filled with beautiful Beech trees. You will find a lively amusement park, a strip for drag racing, and an enormous water park. Some of the rides and attractions at the amusement park are antique cars, a thrilling ride called the “shock drop,” and a whimsical miniature golf course. There is even a petting zoo full of small friendly animals.

Splash Lagoon’s major attractions include three water slides and a huge children’s leisure pool to cool off during the warm Kentucky summer. The park is very affordable, and children’s prices are significantly discounted. It’s a good idea to check with the park to see what the current rates are.

For corvette lovers, the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green Kentucky is the place to go. This museum is dedicated to everything having to do with the famous convertibles and ranks among the top picks of Bowling Green attractions. Some car enthusiasts decide to devote their entire Bowling Green vacations to wandering around the Corvette museum and exploring more than 50 different Corvette models.

Learn about the legendary history of Corvettes and the ways that the car has changed throughout the years by viewing Corvette related movies, videos, and memorabilia. An interactive exhibit called the “Pit Crew Challenge” will show you how pit crew workers change tires and tune up Corvette race cars in record time.

After touring the museum, visitors can see first hand how a Corvette is assembled at the Bowling Green Kentucky GM assembly plant. Out of all of the Bowling Green Attractions, car enthusiasts seem to enjoy this attraction the most because it gives them a chance to see newly produced Corvettes. The tour lasts for an hour and is offered three times during the day. If you have children under the age of seven, touring the GM assembly plant isn’t an option because of safety hazards. Rest assure, however, that there are dozens of things to do in Kentucky for young people.

For the ultimate place to relax on Bowling Green vacations, spend some time in the downtown district of Bowling Green. Eclectic shops and cafes can be found on every street corner. There are festivals going on downtown all year long, including TGIF Downtown and the popular Downtown Lights Up. Downtown Lights Up takes place in early December and will get you ready for the holiday season by offering a tree lighting ceremony, carriage rides, and a visit from Santa Clause.

Antique enthusiasts will love taking a visit to Flea Land, Bowling Green’s largest indoor flea market. With 85,000 square feet of space occupied by antique dealers, you may find the perfect antique souvenir.

Of course, no trip to Bowling Green would be complete without an underwater boat tour at the Lost River Cave and Valley. The tour includes a historic walk through one of the largest cave entrances east of the Mississippi River. The river running through the cave is believed to be the shortest and the deepest in the world. You can also learn about historical figures, such as Jesse James, who once strolled through the cave. If you enjoyed the Lost River Cave and Valley and want to see more caves on your Kentucky trip, be sure to take a visit to Mammoth Cave National Park, the world"s largest cave system that.

read more...

Berea Kentucky

Berea Kentucky has been growing fast in recent years, as more and more people are realizing the potential of this artsy destination. More than anything, the town is known for its arts and crafts industry. In fact, Berea KY is nicknamed the "Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky," and the town motto is "Where Art's Alive." at the Kentucky Artisan Center alone, Berea visitors can spend hours checking out all of the artistic displays and demonstrations.

Berea Kentucky is found just off Interstate 75 in the east-central part of the state. Approximately 45 miles to the north is Lexington, and to the near east of town are portions of the beautiful Daniel Boone National Forest. This location translates to numerous options for things to do, especially for those who enjoy both city pursuits and spending time in the great outdoors. In Berea proper, taking part in a fun festival is among the most popular things to do when it comes to tourism, as is shopping at the local arts and crafts centers.

Among the most renowned Berea KY events are they Berea Craft Festival and the Spoonbread Festival. The Berea Craft Festival features works by artists that hail from all parts of the country, and complementing the displays and demonstrations are live music performances and regional entertainment. It is held over the course of a weekend in July at the Indian Fort Theater (Highway 21E).

As for the Spoonbread Festival, it is held in mid-September and revolves largely around a kind of cornmeal bread that is popular in parts of the South. It's not all about the cornmeal bread when it comes to the Spoonbread Festival, however. All kinds of various side events and activities can also be enjoyed during the celebratory weekend affair. They include a 5K run, a parade, hot air balloon rides, a car show, and arts and crafts. There's even a scenic motorcycle ride that Berea residents and visitors alike can participate in.

When Berea KY visitors aren't taking part in a fun festival or enjoying area attractions such as the Kentucky Horse Park, they often find themselves shopping for arts and crafts. Among the most renowned arts and crafts retail centers that can be found in Berea is the Kentucky Artisan Center. Also one of the more unique museums in Kentucky, this center offers all kinds of fascinating arts and crafts exhibits, not to mention a wonderful gift shop that sells items such as baskets, jewelry, and pottery. Artist demonstrations can also be enjoyed at the Kentucky Artisan Center. An onsite café provides a tempting and convenient dining option. You can find the Kentucky Artisan Center just off Interstate 75 (exit 77), and admission is free.

It only takes minutes to get from downtown Berea Kentucky to the Daniel Boone National Forest. This federally managed forest in the Appalachian foothills offers beautifully rugged terrain characterized by ravines and sandstone cliffs. Trails such as the 269-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail provide excellent hiking and horseback riding opportunities, and thanks to the rivers and streams, park visitors can also enjoy activities such as fishing and canoeing. Camping within the park's boundaries is also an option, though there are some good Berea Kentucky hotels to select from if you only wish to visit the forest during the day.

The hotels in Berea Kentucky include a few chain brand establishments that offer good rooms at a good price. Among them are the Comfort Inn & Suites Berea and the Fairfield Inn & Suites Berea. For those who are interested in a more unique lodging experience, Berea Kentucky hotels such as the Boone Tavern Hotel and the Pinnacle View Inn are worth considering. Relatively low-frill motels like the Days Inn Berea cater to those who really want to save on rates more than anything else. The Boone Tavern Hotel, it should be noted, is found on the Berea College campus at 100 Main Street, making it an especially good place to stay if you are in town for college-related affairs.

read more...

Bardstown Kentucky

Bardstown Kentucky is known as the Bourbon capital of the world. The town is full of charm and cultural heritage that makes Bardstown travel distinctly unique. A Bardstown vacation is perfect for any one studying the Civil War, as there are many museums and old rail roads that document the time period.

Start your Bardstown travel experience with a trip to the Civil War Museum, one of the most popular Bardstown attractions. It is here where you can learn about how the Civil War started, its effect on the nation, and who the major players were. The Bardstown Kentucky museum contains more artifacts than any other museum in the state. You can see uniforms that soldiers wore, important historical documents, weapons, and battle flags.

Most people don’t fully realize the important role that women played during the Civil War. At the Women of the Civil War Museum, visitors can learn about the different roles that women took during the Civil War, including spies, nurses, and secret soldiers. There are interesting artifacts on display, including journals that women kept and uniform pieces.

Further your history lesson with a stroll through Old Bardstown Village, which is a recreation of a frontier village with cabins that date back all the way to the seventeen hundreds.

Whiskey is of primary importance in Bardstown Kentucky history, and the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History can attest to this. Oscar Getz was a famous distiller and the museum displays some of his liquor memorabilia and documents whiskey from the seventeen hundreds until today. Visitors will be surprised when they learn how Americans found ways around the restrictive period of prohibition. George Washington’s mill stone and Carrie Nation’s hatchet are also on display.

If you’re a true fan of whiskey, visiting the Jim Beam American Outpost on your Bardstown Vacation is a must. Sample some well aged bourbon while learning about the history behind the Jim Beam brand of whiskey. In addition to enjoying the 200 year old distillery, you can visit the Beam family home and see how America’s most prolific whisky producers lived.

Your Bardstown vacation should also include a visit to the Heaven Hill Distilleries Bourbon Heritage Center. Visitors can receive a lesson on bourbon tasting in the barrel-shaped tasting room. There are several other Bardstown Attractions where visitors can sample bourbon and learn about Kentucky’s bourbon making past.

The vibrant town of Bardstown invites people from out of town to come and enjoy its events and festivals that happen every month. Every Saturday from June until October visitors can participate in the Bardstown Ghost Trek. The ghost walk lasts for a frightening 45 minutes and highlights some of the haunting occurrences in the town of Bardstown, including ghosts from the Civil War.

If you like antiques, you’re in luck. In addition to all of the exciting Bardstown attractions you will encounter, the city also has dozens of antique shops in its historical downtown shopping area. The downtown is also home to art galleries that house modern photography and glass blowing, as well as old bookshops where you may find a treasure or two. The overall feeling of the downtown is special. No two shops or galleries are alike, and any Bardstown travel enthusiast will get the sense that the region is brimming with history.

read more...

The history of Kentucky

The history of Kentucky is full of fascinating dates, events, and sites. Kentucky history books are loaded with information that details the lives of early explorers, the events of the Civil War, and how the state became admitted to the Union back in 1792. A trip to Louisville, Lexington, and other cities in Kentucky will reveal a number of attractions that will help any visitor better understand Kentucky state history.

The history of Kentucky can be experienced first hand with a trip to Bardstown. You can learn facts about Kentucky and the Civil War at the Civil War Museum. Uniforms of soldiers, battle flags, and other memorabilia provide a look into the history of Kentucky. While you can certainly learn facts about Kentucky in any textbook, the history doesn’t come to life until you view real life journals from soldiers who fought on the battle grounds.

A trip to Frankfort Kentucky will also reveal some historical facts about Kentucky. Visit the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky history to learn details about Kentucky history, such as why the state is referred to as “The Bluegrass State.” There is a genealogical center at the museum that allows visitors access to official Kentucky history state documents. If you have any ancestors that were involved with the Civil War, you may be able to find out about them here.

Another fascinating aspect of Kentucky state history that you may want to explore is bourbon making. People have been making this popular alcoholic drink in Kentucky for 200 years. Taking Kentucky tours of bourbon distilleries is a great way to learn about Kentucky state history and its bourbon making history with the help of an experience tour guide or bourbon historian. If you would like to taste bourbon and compare the different flavors, there are several Kentucky festivals that are geared around bourbon tasting.

Besides being rich in the history having to do with civilization, the state of Kentucky is full of geologic history. Mammoth Cave is the world"s largest cave system and is located in Kentucky. Visitors to this natural geologic wonder can take a hike inside the cave with tour guides and learn how the caves were formed. They will also learn other facts about Kentucky, such as why the cave was once a good hiding spot for bank robbers and other outlaws.

The Kentucky Derby is an event that takes place each May at the Churchill Downs race track in Louisville and is known as a paramount event in the history of Kentucky. Every year, three year old thoroughbred race horses compete in a two minute race that will determine their stardom. The Kentucky Derby Museum features several informative exhibits and behind the scenes tours that will highlight the history of horse racing in Kentucky.

read more...