Kentucky Handcrafted Treasures

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.

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How to Spend a Day in Lexington

Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon, and Boone Region

Start your day at Doodle's, where you'll find the best biscuits and gravy in town. Their gravy is deeply rich and complex in flavor, while providing that ideal comfort. Don’t miss out on their bottomless coffee either and prepare for the day of eating ahead.

For lunch, head to Carson's and pick from their selection of chicken and waffles. The savory gravy with sweet syrup with juicy, crispy chicken & fluffy waffles were a hit.

For dessert, make sure to end your day at Crank & Boom. Known for their small batch ice cream, they serve unique flavors like Bourbon & Honey with Buffalo Trace. Order this as a sundae with chocolate and candied pecans, and I promise, it will be one of the best ice cream bites you take.

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Caitlin Sakdalan

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