On a quiet stretch of I-64, somewhere between Louisville and Lexington, is Shelby County, one of Kentucky’s best-kept secrets. But this sleepy, rural, historic setting is actually a burgeoning scene of boho boutiques, upscale Airbnbs, a restaurant run by a world-renowned chef, and farms that board and train celebrity horses. Also bourbon. Great bourbon.
If you’re looking for a swanky weekend escape, Shelby County should be at the top of your list. Here’s everything you need to know when planning your stay.
WHERE TO STAY
Saddlebred Suites
700 Main St. Shelbyville, KY 40065 • (502) 633-0220
Love a modern urban-chic homestay? There is no better place to lay your head than Saddlebred Suites. Thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind, these family-owned Airbnbs can house up to 16 people in the combined 3,000 square feet of space, or rent them as individual three-bedroom or studio suites. Situated between trendy downtown boutiques and the best coffee Shelbyville has to offer, it is easy to spend a chill day or two in these beautifully appointed apartments. Want to have a night in and relax for a bit? The suites are equipped with well-stocked kitchens and inviting gathering spaces perfect for groups of all sizes.
WHAT TO DO
Kismet Farm
199 Colt Run Rd, Simpsonville, KY 40067 • (651) 248-2027
Horses and bourbon. That’s what Kentucky does (we’ll get to the bourbon), so no trip to rural Kentucky is really complete without the majestic horses that helped to put the state on the map. Kismet Farm is one of the most iconic locations in Kentucky and THE place for a close encounter. Located in the heart of Simpsonville, a town within Shelby County limits, they offer tours, riding lessons, and train some of the top competitive Saddlebred riders around. It’s also home to celebrity-owned horses (can you say William Shatner?) and the most adorable goats, which are named Maverick and Goose. Book a tour to learn more about show horse life, and then saddle up for a personalized riding lesson.
Jeptha Creed Distillery
500 Gordon Ln. Shelbyville, KY 40065 • (502) 487-5007
The “from ground to glass” concept is only part of what makes the Jeptha Creed family of spirits so unique. If they can grow it on their 64 acres, they do. What they can’t grow, they buy from other local farms. Another unique fact? This distillery is owned and operated by mother-daughter dynamos Joyce and Autumn Nethery, a rarity in the spirits industry. Their bourbon is aged on-site, plus they also distill vodka, brandy and moonshine. I’m a “bourbon on the rocks” girl, but with flavored varietals like Apple Pie Moonshine and Honey Vodka, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to check out their free patio concert series and custom cocktail classes while you’re there.
Gallrein Farms
1029 Vigo Rd. Shelbyville, KY 40065 • (502) 633-4849
There is plenty to keep you busy for a day at family-owned and operated Gallrein Farms. Open from spring to fall, kids and adults alike will have fun taking hayrides, mingling with the animals at the free petting zoo, and picking pumpkins or berries depending on the time of year. After a day touring the farm you can snag a light lunch and some homegrown country food staples like ciders and jams. Plant buffs will go wild over their exotic and hard-to-find greenhouse goods.
The Polkadotted Pineapple Boutique
536 Main St. Shelbyville, KY 40065 • (502) 437-0418
One trip to The Polkadotted Pineapple Boutique, and you’ll be the odds-on favorite for “Best Dressed” at this year’s Derby festivities. Owner Dori Lewis is a radiant soul with a knack for tapping into her clients’ personal style and bringing it to life in a one-of-a-kind Derby hat. Not sure what to wear yet? Dori stocks exquisite designer dresses — both new and upscale consignment. A one-stop, customized, everything-for-Derby shop? Sign us up!
WHERE TO EAT
The Old Stone Inn & Tavern
6905 Shelbyville Rd. Simpsonville, KY 40067 • (502) 722-8200
What do The Old Stone Inn & Tavern, Churchill Downs, five continents, the Olympics and the Super Bowl have in common? World-renowned chef David Danielson, who calls Shelby County, Kentucky “home.” He’s cooked on some of the world’s biggest stages, so it goes without saying that the food he prepares is pretty spectacular. The ambiance of The Old Stone Inn & Tavern is upscale and inviting without a hint of arrogance. The seasonal menu is locally sourced, sometimes even including donated produce from the gardens of nearby residents, and it honors the food — “using every edible part from flower to root and nose to tail.”
Items like portobello mushroom fries and fried green tomatoes will get you started, while entrée options like shrimp & grits and braised lamb ragout will make choosing just one a tough job. If you can’t decide, then let us recommend the mushroom ravioli, which offers an authentic taste of Italy, and frankly, is mind-blowing.
Historic Science Hill Inn
525 Washington St. Shelbyville, KY, 40065 • (502) 512-3663
Southern charm oozes from every column of Science Hill Inn. In addition to providing a decadent menu of beautifully prepared Southern fare at The Georgian Room, guests can also enjoy a cultural experience via the adjacent Wakefield Scearce Galleries, which house Old English antiques, extremely rare books, art, furnishings, accessories and more.
The Paddock
700 Main St. Shelbyville, KY 40065 • (859) 445-8319
Rustic charm with a dash of modern, The Paddock is everything you’ll love about Shelby County — all wrapped up in four walls. The Rogers family will make you feel like a regular from the moment you walk through the door, offering options galore to both casual coffee drinkers and connoisseurs alike. (SB TIP: Their house roast is one of the best I’ve ever had! Definitely give it a try!) Pastries and light fare, including gluten-free options, round out the menu of bites, so grab a chair, enjoy your coffee and stay for a while.
When you’re ready to start planning your weekend in Shelby County, KY, check out visitshelbyky.com to get started.
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