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.

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Sweep Your Special Someone Off Their Feet: Kentucky’s Most Romantic Eateries

State Wide

BOYCE GENERAL STORE

 

Experience the beauty of Warren County with a trip to Boyce General Store. Tucked in the rolling hills of Alvaton, Boyce’s is a step back in time, stocked with essentials and gifts. Be sure to order a dessert from the Pie Queen of Bowling Green. If you can't make it to the store, order something yummy online, such as delicious pies, sammies or a KY Love box. 

 

THE KENTUCKY CASTLE

 

If a romantic dinner for two is what you are looking for, The Kentucky Castle is just the place to start!  It's located in Versailles and offers a luxury experience worthy of royalty. Surrounded by Central Kentucky’s beautiful horse farms, it's a perfect place to take your special someone to experience romance in a unique, magical setting.  

 

MY OLD KENTUCKY DINNER TRAIN

 

Enjoy a gourmet meal and wine with the most special people in your life as you travel on a two and a half hour train ride beginning in Bardstown. You will wind your way through beautiful Bourbon Country while enjoying a delicious Kentucky meal. This is an experience that's sure to be memorable!

 

BEAUMONT INN

 

This James Beard Award-Winning restaurant located in a beautiful antebellum inn sets the mood for exceptional southern dining with a side of romance. Reserve a personalized bourbon tasting with the Innkeeper to complete your experience!

 

OTTO’S

 

Located in Covington’s Mainstrasse Village, a quaint 19thcentury German neighborhood, Otto’s is perfect for the date who appreciates an eclectic, intimate atmosphere and savory house specialties.

 

HOLLY HILL INN

 

Set in a historic home located near charming Midway, the nationally recognized Holly Hill Inn prides itself on local, fresh ingredients while making your fine dining meal special for the one you love. The restaurant boasts more than 50 bourbons and an award-winning wine list to choose from!

 

BLUEGRASS COUNTRY ESTATE B&B 

 

Want a private dinner to celebrate the most romantic day of the year? Nestled on a nine-acre horse farm in La Grange, this award-winning luxury bed and breakfast offers you and your special someone a bottle of wine or champagne, flowers and chocolates in your room, use of all the luxury amenities, and a gourmet breakfast for two. A private dinner option is also available when making reservations. 

 

SHAKER VILLAGE OF PLEASANT HILL

 

The spirited hospitality that Shakers embodied will warmly welcome you for an enjoyable evening. The Trustee’s Table menu is based on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients used in traditional Kentucky dishes, some of which are grown right outside in their nearby garden. After dinner, take a quiet stroll down the lane to view the restored, original Shaker buildings.

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