Exploring Kentucky’s New African American Heritage Trail: A 4-City Itinerary
Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon, and Boone Region Bourbon, Horses & History
Kentucky’s African American Heritage Trail is more than a scenic route, it’s a soul-stirring journey through stories of resistance, resilience, and brilliance. Over four days, I had the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legends, dine in Black-owned gems, and experience the heart of Kentucky’s Black history across Lexington, Nicholasville, Berea, Louisville, and Frankfort.
Here’s how you can explore the trail, stop by stop with context, culture, and community in every mile.
Day 1:
Lexington, KY – Where Legends Rest
I started my journey in Lexington at African Cemetery No. 2, where over 5,000 African Americans are buried, including legendary Black jockeys who dominated early horse racing. Standing before the original resting place of Isaac Burns Murphy, as well as the graves of Oliver Lewis and James “Soup” Perkins, was deeply moving. Their names may not appear in most history books, but here, they are honored
📍 Camp Nelson National Monument & Cemetery
Next, I took a short drive from Lexington, this stop left a lasting impression on me. Walking the same grounds where African American soldiers once trained and sought freedom during the Civil War was deeply humbling. Camp Nelson was more than just a Union supply depot, it was a refuge, a place of hope, and a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of injustice.
Less than four minutes away is the Camp Nelson National Cemetery a peaceful, beautifully maintained resting place that makes you pause and feel every bit of history around you.
Pro Tip: Wear comfy shoes, you’ll want to take your time exploring and truly taking it all in. The history here deserves more than just a glance.
🏨 Stay: The Manchester Hotel
The Manchester Hotel is the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at ease. It’s stylish and modern, but still warm and welcoming in a way that feels uniquely Kentucky. I couldn’t stop admiring the cozy interiors, every corner was made for relaxing and snapping a cute pic.
Insider tip: I treated myself to an espresso martini at the lobby bar, and let me just say, it was easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Don’t skip it!
🍽️ Dinner: Carson’s Food & Drink
Think exposed brick, bourbon barrel vibes, and elevated Southern comfort food. I wrapped up my first night in Lexington with dinner at Carson’s Food & Drink, and it did not disappoint. I ordered the shrimp and grits, which was so creamy and flavorful! Seriously, I’m still thinking about it.
Day 2:
Berea, KY – Artistry and Activism
Founded in 1855 as the South’s first interracial and coeducational college, Berea College immediately struck me as a place where history, purpose, and progress all meet. As I walked the campus, I could feel the intentionality in every space. It wasn’t just beautiful, it was powerful. The energy was inspiring and grounded in something much deeper than academics. Their motto, “God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth,” really resonated with me. It’s more than just a saying, it’s a lived value that shapes the culture and spirit of Berea, and I felt that in every moment I was there.
🍽️ Lunch: Boone Tavern
After my tour, I walked over to Boone Tavern for lunch, which was just a short walk from Berea College. I tried the Kentucky Bourbon Burgoo, and it did not disappoint. Also? Don’t leave without trying the spoonbread. It’s an Appalachian favorite, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why.
Day 3:
Louisville, KY – Echoes of Excellence
📍 Roots 101 African American Museum
Just under two hours from Berea, I found myself at Roots 101, and it wasn’t just a museum, it was a movement. Founded by Lamont Collins, this space took me on a powerful journey through African heritage, the Middle Passage, and Black excellence. But the moment that truly stopped me was the “Big Momma’s House” exhibit. Walking into that room felt like being wrapped in the warmth of love, legacy, and resilience. There was a familiar scent in the air—one I couldn’t quite name, but it immediately reminded me of the women in my own life who’ve carried entire generations with grace and grit. The storytelling at Roots 101 is intentional, raw, and unapologetically Black. I walked out feeling seen, inspired, and holding a deeper reverence for the stories that shape us.
Walking through this historic Black cemetery, I paused at names like William “Uncle Bill” Walker and Bessie Allen. These weren’t just headstones, they were legacies. Each one a quiet reminder of Black excellence in medicine, music, racing, and activism.
The Ali Center brings “The Greatest” to life far beyond the ring. His activism, faith, and words carry just as much weight as his fists ever did. I could’ve spent the entire day here, I really loved the reflection spaces where you could sit with his words and think about what courage, confidence and conviction look like in your own life.
Tip: Don’t leave without checking out Ali’s Rolls-Royce.
🍽️ Lunch: Daddy Vic’s Soul Food
Next, enjoy lunch at this Black-owned gem. There’s so many delicious options to choose from, but you absolutely can’t go wrong with the fried catfish with a side of Mac and cheese and cabbage! And whatever you do, don’t skip the peach cobbler.
📍 Kentucky Center for African American Heritage
The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage is a space that moved me deeply. It celebrates Black contributions to Kentucky’s culture, politics, and arts in a way that feels both powerful and personal. The exhibits aren’t just informative—they linger with you.
During my visit, I had the chance to see two incredible exhibits: Celebrating the Black Experience and Reflections N Black – Kentucky Derby Jockeys, which features stunning quilts by Dr. Eugene Poole, Jr. Both displays offered a rich and layered look at Black history in Kentucky, and I walked away feeling inspired, proud, and more connected.
📍 Stay: 21c Museum Hotel
The 21c Museum Hotel is the kind of place that surprises and inspires you the moment you walk in. It’s not just a hotel, it’s an experience. My room was spacious, the bed was incredibly comfortable, and the overall vibe struck the perfect balance between artsy and welcoming.
Even the hallways feel like galleries and is full of creative energy. And the best part? It’s in the perfect location for everything I had planned, just a short drive from museums, restaurants, and downtown attractions.
Final Stop:
Frankfort, KY – A Full-Circle Finish
📍 The Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History
This museum definitely connected the dots of Kentucky’s full historical picture, including African American narratives. It’s a great place to tie together what you’ve learned at the end of your trip.
🍽️ Bonus Bite: Blue Skillet in Lexington
Before my flight home, I circled back to Blue Skillet, a Black-owned soul food joint with the crispiest fried chicken and friendliest service. A perfect final bite.
This trip along Kentucky’s African American Heritage Trail isn’t just about places, it’s about people. The trail brings forward the names, stories, and legacies too often left behind.
If you’re planning your own road trip or cultural getaway, let this serve as a guide. Follow the markers, listen to the stories, and allow yourself to be changed by them. Because honoring the past makes every step forward more meaningful.
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