Scenic drives, emerald green pastures, Kentucky bourbon and good music...these are a few of the things you'll find in Kentucky's Bluegrass Country. A horse-lover's paradise, Bluegrass Country is home to both Kentucky's capital and its second largest city, besides a wealth of uniquely Americana travel experiences.
Kentucky's Bluegrass Country is perhaps best known as the grazing grounds of the state's famous Thoroughbreds – the horses that hit the tracks at Keeneland and Churchill Downs each year. The high content of calcium in the soil in Bluegrass Country yields stronger, more durable horses.
Lexington, Kentucky's second largest city, is the capital of Bluegrass Country and "Horse Capital of the World." Here you'll find shopping, dining and accommodation to rival a big city, all delivered with small town charm. While you're here, make sure to visit the Kentucky Horse Park to see the majestic Thoroughbreds up close.
Louisville may be home of the Kentucky Derby, but Bluegrass Country is no stranger to racing. Twice per year, Lexington's Keeneland Race Course holds Thoroughbred race meets. Each spring, the Kentucky Horse Park hosts the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event, where riders from around the world compete in dressage, jumping and cross-country events.
You don't have to be a horse-lover to appreciate Bluegrass Country. The areas surrounding Frankfort and Richmond are dotted with Civil and Revolutionary War battlefields and monuments where reenactors come to play out historic battles. History-buffs can visit the grave site of Daniel Boone or experience daily life at a the largest restored Shaker community at Pleasant Hill.
If there's one thing that goes hand in hand with Kentucky and horses, it's bourbon, and several of the state's biggest distilleries call Bluegrass Country home. If you're taking a Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour, you'll find Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve and Four Roses distilleries here, as well as dozens of craft distilleries and wineries.
You can't visit Bluegrass Country without touring at least one of the region's stunning horse farms. See where Seabiscuit was born at Claiborne Farm or learn the secrets of breeding Triple Crown winners at Calumet Farms (they've bred nine Derby champions and three Triple Crown winners). Whether you take a guided tour or visit on your own, plan in advance.
Bluegrass, the state music of Kentucky, was born in Bluegrass Country, and you'll have plenty of chances to learn all about it during your travels. It all started when Kentucky native Bill Monroe started a band called Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, whose distinctive sound incorporated acoustic instruments, vocal harmonies and elements of gospel, country and blues. A new genre was born.
The International Bluegrass Music Museum in downtown Owensboro chronicles the history of bluegrass music, from Bill Monroe's band to today. Learn about the greats in the Bluegrass Hall of Fame, follow the life of Bill Monroe, see some historically significant bluegrass instruments and listen to some tunes on a bluegrass-dedicated jukebox.
Kentucky's Bluegrass Country is best experienced via a leisurely drive through the region. Make your way down Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway, and you'll pass dozens of picturesque views along the way. The lush greens of spring and colorful fall leaves make these seasons the best times to explore the region.
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