Berea, Boone and More

Take a quick trip south on I-75 and you will find lots of charm, a taste of early American history and fabulous crafts from the cream of Kentucky's artisans.

Ft. Boonesborough State Park - 2009 was the 275th anniversary of the birth of Daniel Boone. Visit the fort where there is a museum with 18th century artifacts along with some that belonged to the great explorer himself. At Ft. Boonesborough State Park, KY visitors can camp and enjoy craft demonstrations by resident Kentucky artists.

Whitehall, home of Cassius Marcellus Clay--The 19th century emancipationist, politician, newspaper publisher, Ambassador to Russia, and friend to Abraham Lincoln, owned this home where his wife ran the businesses in his absence. His daughter later joined the front lines of the suffragist movement, due in part because Mary was stripped of all rights to property she managed when Clay divorced her.

Berea Tourism Center - Stop and see Belle who has all the information about this area nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea - One of the most visited locations along I- 75, the center shows and sells the best of Kentucky's craft artists. Stop for a bite and to browse Berea crafts.

Old Town Artisan Village showcases fabulous shops and artisans' work.

Boone Tavern - The hotel has recently been renovated to become one of the first LEEDS certified destinations in the state. Sit and rock a spell out front or dine on great regional food in the dining room.

For a worthwhile side trip head North on I-75 to Richmond and take KY52 East.

Fitchburg Furnace - In this rural location are the remains of the largest charcoal burning furnace in existence in the world in 1869. Built at the peak of the iron industry, it was the last furnace built in Estill County. The relic is considered unique with twin stacks.