Just 20 minutes from downtown Louisville on I-71, it starts with a rumble! Then, the bells. Next, vibrations. Most first-time visitors to historic downtown La Grange are astounded as they watch a freight train roll through town. Yes, a train runs through it — right down the center of Main Street.

Up to 20 trains a day come through this county seat of Oldham County, Kentucky, much to the delight of locals and tourists alike. Because the roads are narrow, cars are forced to park on either side of the tracks when the CSX freight train is passing through. Even though the train is not a passenger train, folks come from all over the world to experience this one-of-a-kind attraction that can only be found in Oldham County, Kentucky.

For a truly unique experience, reserve an overnight stay at The Brakeman’s Cottage or one the newest vacation rentals in historic downtown La Grange within walking distance of shops, museums, restaurants, such as the popular favorite,  Ernestos. You’ll peruse unique home decor and specialty shops, such as Mercantile on Main, PB & J Stuff and Blooms and Boutique, while sipping a handcrafted latte from La Grange Coffee Roasters. Or comb the racks at the  Rainy Day Resale consignment shop before heading to  Spotz Gelato, La Grange’s newest dessert destination!

Shopping & Dining

Who knows, you just might find that missing piece for your grandmother’s collection at Copper Awning or discover the best reuben wontons and Bacon Pie (yes, the one featured on the Cooking Channel!) at One Nineteen West Main restaurant. There’s also awesome outdoor seating by the tracks at Main Street Bourbon & Ale House or the view from atop the Train Observation Tower.

A great small-town Main Street is not without great art galleries – and you’ll find those here, too. 

Visits to  Gallery 104, private artist studios and  Friends & Fiber yarn shop will leave you longing for the days of your youth when all you had was time to be creative. You’ll certainly find a unique masterpiece to take home as a souvenir from your escape to Kentucky’s best-kept secret in Oldham County.

New Attractions & Experiences

The historic city of La Grange was chosen as the only Kentucky town to be featured in the HGTV spin-off show, “Hometown Kick Start.” A stop in the alley to see the murals is worth a photo during your visit to downtown shops and restaurants, or stay in historic downtown La Grange at one of their fabulous vacation rentals!

Oldham County, Kentucky, is just minutes from such regional attractions as the Creation Museum, Ark Encounter, Kentucky Derby Museum, Churchill Downs, Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Museum, Belle of Louisville and Kentucky Center for the Arts.

Don’t forget to book your Oldham Farm Tours or Bourbon Tour beforehand, and plan to visit Kentucky’s largest beer garden, 3rd Turn Oldham Gardens, and botanical gardens, Yew Dell. Check out our Top 10 Things to Do in Oldham County!

PLEASE NOTE: Most Main Street shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays.