Arts & Crafts Shopping In Kentucky

Beginning with the earliest days of English settlement, handicrafts have been a beloved art form in the Bluegrass State. While many Kentucky arts and crafts are rooted in tradition, others are on the cutting edge of contemporary art. You can find it all on your visit, and even bring home a piece or two as a gift or souvenir.

Berea, known as the Folk Arts & Crafts Capital of Kentucky, is home to a thriving community of artisans with shops and studios scattered throughout town. The city’s craft heritage is tied to historic Berea College, the first integrated and coeducational college in the South. Paducah, home to the National Quilt Museum and Lower Town Arts District, has been designated a UNESCO Creative City, one of only nine in the United States. Inspiration awaits visitors to this city’s many vibrant galleries and workshops.

The Kentucky Artisan Center, Appalachian Artisan Center and KMAC Museum all display and sell works of hundreds of Kentucky artisans. Kentucky Arts Council maintains directories of Kentucky Crafted Artists and Retailers that have met the Council’s criteria of artistic excellence and professionalism as judged by independent panels of arts professionals. Plus, handcrafted wares are the centerpiece of many festivals throughout the Commonwealth, large and small.

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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