Every work of art is a story, and Kentucky has many to tell. Our rich heritage of craftmaking goes all the way back to the pioneer days of the Commonwealth, when settlers living on the frontier learned to make the things they wanted or needed, and then passed those skills down through the generations. These traditions still thrive today, with a new class of Kentucky artisans crafting handmade music instruments, sculptures, intricate quilts, ceramics and pottery, textiles, paintings and many more objects of art.

Visit Berea, the “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky,” for charming shops selling some of the finest folk art Kentucky has to offer, and stop at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea to peruse the work of more than 800 Kentucky artists. Travel to western Kentucky to discover just why Paducah has been designated a UNESCO Creative City, from the historic floodwall murals along the riverfront to the eclectic studios of the Lower Town Arts District. And other arts destinations, including the Appalachian Artisan Center in Hindman and the annual Kentucky Crafted Market, provide even more opportunities for visitors to bring home magnificent art and a fascinating story or two. 

And if contemporary art is more your style, don’t miss KMAC and the 21C Museum Hotels in Louisville and Lexington, which showcase eclectic exhibitions from global artists. 

New: . The Stephen Rolfe Powell Memorial Sculpture Garden and Outdoor Classroom at Centre College in Danville, conceptualized and led by one of Powell’s former students, Brook Forrest White Jr., owner of Flame Run Hot Shop and Gallery in Louisville, features a 25-foot-tall sculpture that spectators can walk through, as well as a garden and an outdoor classroom. The memorial serves as an endearing reminder of the Kentucky artist’s legacy by creating a landmark where visitors can experience and appreciate his profound impact on glass art, not only as an arts professor but as a preeminent artist of world acclaim.

Trip Inspiration

Morehead’s Top Spots for Adventure & Relaxation

Kentucky Appalachians

Spend your days immersed in the natural beauty surrounding Morehead, Kentucky!

 

Enjoy lake and lush forest trails that offer escape – and space to breathe – or explore your sense of adventure by walking in Daniel Boone’s footsteps through hundreds of miles of trails in the foothills of Daniel Boone National Forest. 
Here are three best bets to experience this outdoor paradise.

 

 

Twin Knobs Recreation Area

 

Camping is the ultimate way to reconnect with nature and clear your mind. Campfires, picnics, hiking, biking, fishing and swimming abound at Twin Knobs Recreation Area, featuring a 700-acre campground with nearly 200 tent and RV campsites. Plus two onsite boat ramps (Alfrey and Twin Knobs) makes getting your boat on the water here a breeze!

 

 

Cave Run Lake

 



 

Known as the “Muskie Capital of the South,” Cave Run Lake is the perfect place to enjoy water sports, lazy days relaxing on a pontoon or houseboat, or unwinding with your toes in the sand. A top destination for boating, fishing, tubing, water-skiing and swimming, Cave Run boasts more than 8,000 acres of picturesque open water with breathtaking views. Combined with the adjoining Licking River, the lake provides year-round opportunities for fun and relaxation.

 

 

Sheltowee Trail

 

With more than 100 miles of multi-use trails for any age and ability, Morehead is an official Kentucky Trail Town. In fact, the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail meanders right down Main Street! Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon hike or are an experienced hiker wanting a challenge, there is a trail here for you.

 

Ready to explore more? Check out these other awesome trails in Morehead right near downtown.  

 

The Downtown Walking Trail starts at the Morehead Visitor Center and travels 2.5 miles through downtown, picturesque Morehead State University and the campus of St. Claire Healthcare.

 

 



 

Nestled in a peaceful forest environment within city limits, secluded Rodburn Hollow Park is ideal for a hike, picnic or letting your kids splash around the creek while discovering nature’s treasures. Hiking trails, a playground, picnic shelter and ample parking are all available.

 

Spectacular views and that invincible feeling of conquering a challenge await at Limestone Knob. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail leads you right to Limestone, which at 1,423 feet above sea level is the highest point in Rowan County.

 

 
One of the most stunning views in the area comes at Lockegee Rock along a 0.7 mile lightly trafficked out-and-back trail located near Clearfield, Kentucky. Tucked in a beautiful forest setting, this route is rated as a moderate-level hike.
Eagle Lake Loop Trail is a 1.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail near Morehead State University that features a beautiful lake. Rated as moderate difficulty, it will give you a brisk workout as well.

 

There’s always #More2Morehead!

 

Start planning your trip today at www.visitmorehead.com.

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