Scouting destinations for your next getaway? These unique overnight stays in Kentucky combine eclectic decor, an occasional dose of quirky history, and prime locations for exploring all of the Bluegrass State’s coolest sights. Whether you’re looking for an evening in the treetops or a weekend of royal treatment, these 10 fabulous places to stay in Kentucky should be on your radar.
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The Myriad Hotel
Location: Louisville, KY
More Info: hotels.com
Disco balls are having a moment, but they’re also a nostalgic nod to the past at this eclectic hotel that opened in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood in 2023. The Myriad Hotel is a former disco ball factory (yes, there were entire factories dedicated to disco balls!). Now, it’s a boutique hotel with vibrant, retro-inspired decor and a Swim Club begging for pool parties and cabana days.
Located just a quick walk from the urban distilleries in Louisville, this is the place to stay when you want a colorful contrast to your days spent on the Bourbon Trail.
The Kentucky Castle
Location: Versailles, KY
More Info:Â hotels.com
Did you know there’s a castle in central Kentucky? Its construction began in 1969, and this sprawling estate was designed to mimic European castles the original owners were lusting after. However, their dream never came to fruition.
The castle sat unfinished on its 110-acre property for generations and passed through several hands before its current owners chose to turn it into a hotel with a spa, dining area, working farm, and event spaces. The Kentucky Castle has just 18 rooms, so you can truly enjoy a taste of royalty when you walk through the front gates.
The Canopy Crew Tree Houses
Location: Red River Gorge, KY
More Info: thecanopycrew.com
There’s magic in the forest, particularly when you’re seeing it from a new perspective. The Canopy Crew has a collection of tree houses in the Red River Gorge Valley that include floating cliff houses, tree houses, and geodesic domes. They’re like camping on a new level — and, perhaps, a more manageable level since all the houses have indoor bathrooms.
You can book one of the spaces for a tranquil getaway or rent a few for a group vacation. With trails right outside and stars overhead at night, there’s no reason to leave this property once you arrive.
Historic Gaffney House
Location: Louisville, KY
More Info: airbnb.com
Overlooking the Ohio River, the Historic Gaffney House was originally designed by renowned architect James Gaffney. It’s now been restored and turned into an Airbnb that mixes old and new in an eclectic juxtaposition of midcentury color, ornate historical detail, and modern lines.
It can be rented as a full property that sleeps up to eight or split into two smaller units. Additionally, guests gain access to the Louisville Thoroughbred Society Members-Only Club, which is known for its rare bourbon collection and tastings, cigar lounge, sports betting, and rooftop.
The Main House at Hermitage Farm
Location: Goshen, KY
More Info:Â heritagefarm.com
What would a trip to Kentucky be without a visit to a working horse farm? The Main House at Hermitage Farm can sleep up to 14 guests, making it the perfect place to stay with a group. If you have a smaller entourage, the Smoke House sleeps up to four.
The decor nods to the historic and traditional but in a way that feels fresh and crisp — complete with comfy upholstery and modern art. There’s a restaurant, bourbon tastings, art walks, horse tours, and picnic lunches. You could drive the 20 minutes into Louisville to explore, but why would you need to?
Bottled in Bond
Location: Shelbyville, KY
More Info:Â airbnb.com
Bottled in Bond is an HGTV-featured Airbnb that feels caught between living inside a bourbon barrel and a swanky midcentury loft. Located in an 1800s clothing factory in downtown Shelbyville, this loft was brought into the future and back in time.
The owners restored the original trusses, exposed brick, and hardwood floors while bringing in modern elements like sleek lighting, a gourmet kitchen, and lounge-worthy furniture. A dining table made from electrocuted wood from the Jim Beam Distillery ties it to its place in the heart of the Bourbon Trail.
21c Lexington
Location: Lexington, KY
More Info:Â hotels.com
Spend a night at the 21c Museum in Lexington, a hotel-meets-art museum and cultural center. With 88 rooms and a museum that’s open 24/7, 21c surrounds its guests with art from every angle. In the rooms, hallways, lobby, and even outside the museum, art is truly everywhere.
The decor is funky, and the curation team makes an effort to find exciting contemporary artists to accent the space. Many of the pieces were specially commissioned to fit the historic building, which was originally the Fayette National Bank Building, designed by the iconic firm McKim, Mead, and White. It has now been reimagined by the award-winning firm Deborah Berke Partners.
Botherum Carriage House
Location: Lexington, KY
More Info:Â airbnb.com
If you’re leaning fully into your garden girl era, then you need to book the historic Botherum Carriage House ASAP. This stunning property looks like it’s hidden away on a sprawling estate, yet it’s walkable to town.
The gardens look like something out of a storybook, the saltwater pool is the perfect place for a refreshing dip in the summer, and the garden-inspired aesthetic continues right into the decor of the two-bedroom home.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Location: Harrodsburg, KY
More Info:Â hotels.com
If you’ve ever heard of Shaker furniture, this is your chance to immerse yourself in it. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill was originally built as a community for Shakers, who were pacifists who believed in communal living.
The group no longer lives here, but the historic 3,000-acre preserve remains, and there are 72 guest rooms sprinkled throughout the town, each outfitted with unique Shaker furniture. It’s a spartan take on design but features beautifully made furniture and a one-of-a-kind step back in time.
Blade and Bow Penthouse Suite | Louisville, KY
Location: Louisville, KY
More Info:Â nmbr15.com
If you’re visiting Kentucky, what combination could be better than whiskey and music? At The Blade and Bow Penthouse Suite, you’ll stay on the penthouse level of Number 15, a live music venue right on historic Whiskey Row.
With moody, masculine decor that feels like it was beamed straight out of a hidden speakeasy, you’re immersed in the bourbon-soaked vibes of Louisville. And the hosts will make sure you immerse yourself in the culture — guests get a gift card to Number 15, as well as complimentary cocktails at Stitzel-Weller distillery’s Garden & Gun Club.
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