Discover Specialty Shopping in Kentucky

You’ll find a bounty of handmade treasures at art galleries and unique boutiques on Kentucky’s Main Streets, specially designated districts that offer a variety of local stores, historic architecture and authentic culture in charming downtowns.

Many of our top attractions, including the Louisville Slugger Factory & Museum and Ruth Hunt Candy Co., sell their world-famous merchandise. Old-time general stores, in places like Rabbit Hash and Augusta, are alive and well here. And large flea markets (both indoor and outdoor) dot the state, offering everything from handmade furniture to Civil War relics.

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How to Spend a Day in Berea & Red River Gorge

Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon, and Boone Region

Have casual breakfast at Native Bagel Co, where you can indulge in their hand-rolled bagels. We loved the classic sausage, egg, and cheese bagel sandwich, but the surprise hit was the one our server recommended — a cheese bagel with rosemary honey cream cheese.

The classic sausage, egg, and cheese bagel sandwich at Native Bagel Co. in Berea.

Then, walk it off by heading to Red River Gorge, where there are several nice hikes in Natural Bridge State Park. For lunch, locals recommended Red River Rockhouse and Miguel’s Pizza. My fiance’s name is Miguel and one of his favorite foods is pizza, so we had to check it out. They let you customize everything! If you need a caffeine boost before leaving, stop by Daniel Boone Coffee Shop.

Head back to Berea, and stay the night at Boone Tavern Hotel. Explore the artisan shops and walk around this charming college town. After a long day, stay in for dinner at Boone Tavern Restaurant. They offer Kentucky classics like Spoonbread or Hot Brown at the hotel's restaurant.

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Caitlin Sakdalan

Caitlin is a social media influencer, storyteller, and content & community expert. She is the creator behind the hugely popular @befatbehappy Instagram page.

Explore Specialty Shopping in Kentucky