Savor a Serene Equestrian and Bourbon Experience in this Quaint Kentucky Town, Avoiding the Busyness Typically Associated with Such Attractions.
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, the quaint town of Shelbyville in Shelby County offers visitors a captivating blend of Southern charm and distinctive experiences, just minutes from Louisville. Beyond the traditional hospitality, Shelby County invites tourists to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of equestrian fashion, the nuanced world of Kentucky bourbon, and the unique characteristics of Icelandic horses, making for an enriching few days in the Blue Grass State.
Things To Do
Design A Derby Hat
For a truly memorable day at the races, visit The Polkadotted Pineapple, a boutique that draws customers from across the state. Known for creating unique headwear, the shop showcases a vibrant array of dresses from independent designers and custom Derby hats. Under the guidance of owner Dori Lewis and her team of milliners, customers can design a personalized accessory by selecting a base hat and embellishing it with various elements.
Sip On Bourbon
Tour Jeptha Creed or Bulleit Distilling Co., two notable distilleries in Shelby County. At Jeptha Creed, a mother-daughter team crafts bourbon and vodkas, offering a refined "Barrel Tasting" experience in a rickhouse. Meanwhile, Bulleit Distilling Co. invites imbibers to enjoy sensory tastings or select cocktails on an outdoor terrace with scenic views. Both distilleries offer a glimpse into Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage.
Experience Horse Showmanship
As the Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World, Shelbyville prides itself on its connection to horses. Each summer, visitors and competitors flock to the annual Shelbyville Horse Show, featuring world-renowned events, live music, and a blend of pomp and circumstance.
Take A Pottery Class
Step into the Ceramic Wisdom Workshop in downtown Shelbyville to try your hand at pottery. Under expert guidance, visitors can get their hands dirty, manipulating clay and delicately shaping pots on a spinning wheel. Choose your best form from several iterations, leave it for glazing, and pick it up before heading out of town.
Additional Attractions
Explore the public art downtown, featuring sculptures designed by local and regional artists. Take a stroll through the impressive Wakefield-Scearce Galleries, offering a vast selection of antiques and a unique location housed in the former Science Hill School building.
Where To Eat
For classically comforting Southern fare, dine at Claudia Sanders Dinner House, known for its original chicken recipe. For those seeking a lighter option, McKinley's Cafe offers the traditional Benedictine sandwich, a blend of cucumber and cream cheese. Fine dining enthusiasts won't want to miss The Bell House Restaurant, particularly before or after a show at the Shelby County Community Theatre. In nearby Simpsonville, explore freshly baked cinnamon rolls at Weathered Oak Farms, lavender-infused fare at Little Mount Lavender Company, and Peruvian-Asian fusion at Dos Mundos.
Where To Stay
Harbison House, a renovated 1870 farmhouse, offers modern comforts like contemporary clawfoot tubs and luxurious linens. If you prefer to be walkable to downtown dining and shopping, consider staying at one of Shelbyville's vacation rentals, situated above bustling businesses.
- Embark on a travel adventure to Shelbyville, Kentucky, a picturesque town steeped in Southern living, noted for its equestrian fashion, bourbon heritage, and unique Icelandic horses.
- Food-and-drink enthusiasts should visit Jeptha Creed or Bulleit Distilling Co., two renowned distilleries in Shelby County, offering bourbon tastings and cocktails with scenic views.
- Home-and-garden aficionados can take a pottery class at the Ceramic Wisdom Workshop in downtown Shelbyville, where they can learn to shape and glaze their own pots.
