Places to Visit

Alpha Farm

Equestrian programs, summer camp, ceramic classes, hay rides.

Aquatic Center

Swimming pool

Art Depository

Stop in and check out the fine work that’s available in our newly restored 1800’s bank building. Chat with the local artists while enjoying a cup of cappuccino or espresso.

Asbury University

Founded 1890. Originally named Kentucky Holiness College, the school was renamed to honor the founder of American Methodism, Bishop Francis Asbury. Enrolls 1,300. Christian liberal arts.

Asbury College Equine Center

Guided scenic trail rides and bird-watching on horseback trail rides, as well as summer horse camps.

Asbury Seminary, founded in 1923, is a multi-denominational, multicultural graduate school offering masters and doctoral degrees. Asbury Seminary has over 1,700 students and offers classes on three campuses, Kentucky, Florida and Virtual.

Blue Grass Sportsmen’s League

Wide range of outdoor sporting activities

Camp Nelson National Cemetery

Designated a national cemetery in 1868. Over 2,200 Civil War soldiers buried at site including 1,600 from Camp Nelson and others from Kentucky Civil War battles including Perryville, Richmond and Covington.

Camp Nelson Heritage Park

525 preserved acres of the 4,000 acre Union Army Supply Depot, Recruitment/ Training Center, Hospital Facility and African American Refugee Camp. Includes restored Officers Quarters, White House, which interprets the war years along with life of family whose property was confiscated. Interpretive Center with museum, recreated fortification, 5 miles of interpretive trails, barracks building, genealogical research library. Area designated as a Kentucky Distinguished Geologic Site. Educators use Camp Nelson’s exposures as a natural laboratory and teaching tool. Guide book available at Interpretive Center. Designated as National Underground Network to Freedom site and part of the Lincoln Heritage Trail. Salute to the Equine Warrior and Living History in early October. Blow Ye the Trumpets, Blow! depicts the African-American struggles for freedom through a historical drama in early June.

Centennial Park

Site of Ichthus Music Festival, J.D. Crowe Bluegrass Festival and 400 Mile Sale. Picnicking and disc golf available.

Chrisman Mill Vineyards and Winery

Produces 5 varieties of wine grapes. Tours and tasting at facility. Tuscan dinners. Special events.

City/County Park

Play fields, playground, shelter, fair grounds

Farmer’s Markets

Saturdays, June – September.Local producers

First Vineyard

Site of the first commercial wine grape vineyard in US established in 1798. Vineyard produces grapes from original vines. Tours available.

High Bridge Park

View first cantilever bridge in North America which was also highest bridge over a navigable stream until early 20th century. Bridge was designated engineering landmark exhibited as a model in the Museum of American History of the Smithsonian Institute. 11 acre historic park includes a playground, historic pavilion, gazebos, overlook extending 35 ft. from 400 ft. cliff to view 2 rivers & historic railroad bridge.

Historical and Genealogical Society of Jessamine County

Jim Beam Nature Preserve

Protects portion of the Palisades of the Kentucky River. Feeding habitat for rare bat species. Open to public for hiking, birding and nature study.

Kentucky River Otter Outpost

Canoe, kayak & float tube rentals with the available in the lock 7 & 8 pools of the Kentucky River. Shuttle is also available.

Kentucky River Palisades

42 miles of pristine, scenic river expanse with up to 500 feet high limestone cliffs bordering Kentucky River. Can be viewed at US 68, KY 29, US 27, KY 169 and on the river through Sugar Creek Resort or Kentucky River Outfitters.

Lake Mingo

Small lake, playground, trail, shelter.

Lexington Quarry

Underground facility, geological formations. Tours available by appointment.

Memorial Sports Complex

Tara Farm Equestrian Center

Riding and boarding facility for future riders. Day camps and riding lessons.

Taylor Made Farm

Thoroughbred breeding farm. Tours by appointment.

Valley View Ferry

Valley View Ferry KY-169 S. from Nicholasville at the Kentucky River. 11 miles to the ferry. The oldest continuous business in Kentucky since 1785.

Wolf Run

Exotic animals, tours, programs.