Whether you’re a history buff eager to dive into the past or an outdoor enthusiast ready to explore the countryside, here are two ways to spend the day in Richmond, Kentucky.
A Day for History & Culture Lovers
Morning
Start your day at the cozy Purdy’s Coffee Co. in the heart of downtown Richmond. Pair a bagel sandwich or flaky pastry with their famous Old Kentucky Latte, a local favorite infused with a shot of bourbon. Or, head to Jackson’s Restaurant, a mom-and-pop diner, for a hearty meal of biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash, and pancakes.
After breakfast, walk to the Richmond Tourism & Visitor Center. Housed in a stunning colonial-style home, the center is filled with maps, historical tidbits, and brochures on the area’s best spots. With all the insider info you’ll need to maximize your time in Richmond, it’s a great starting point for your deep dive into local culture.
Afterward, head to the Battle of Richmond Visitor Center to learn all about Richmond’s role in the Civil War. Explore exhibits brimming with artifacts like soldier’s letters, weapons, flags, and furniture. Outside, stroll along the paved walking path, pay your respects at the Masonic Memorial, and see a real Civil War cannon. For your next stop, snap photos of the massive millstones and learn about Richmond’s rich milling history at Millstone Park. If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss the annual Millstone Festival for craft vendors, food trucks, and live music.
Finish your morning history tour with a visit to the courthouse in the town square to see Squire Boone Rock. The obelisk-shaped limestone was carved by Daniel Boone’s brother in 1770 to let Daniel know he had safely returned from his trip to Virginia. It was dug up on a farm in 1892 and gifted to the city of Richmond, where it’s remained ever since.
Afternoon
Grab lunch at Straight From Texas BBQ for wood-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and classic barbecue sides like mac & cheese and collard greens. Want to try a little bit of everything? Order the Texas Sampler Platter. Alternatively, soak up the old-timey charm of the Newby Country Store, one of Kentucky’s only remaining authentic country stores. Grab a simple deli sandwich, savor some homemade fudge or vintage candy, and browse through locally-made goodies like soaps, candles, and clothing.
Next, it’s a visit to Fort Boonesborough State Park! Chat with period actors in the living history museum, explore 18th-century cabins and learn about the Kentucky River’s storied past at the River Museum. Founded in 1775 by Daniel Boone, the state park features a full-scale replica of the original fort and remains a popular tourist attraction. If you’re visiting during the summertime, go sunbathing on the sand beach, take a dip in the swimming pool, or go bass fishing in the river.
Don’t miss out on a visit to White Hall State Historic House, the former home of politician Cassius Clay and one of the city’s oldest buildings. Walk through opulent rooms filled with Clay family artifacts on a self-guided tour to learn all about the history of the 44-room mansion and the famous family that once lived there.
Next, visit the Irvinton House Museum, Richmond’s only historic house museum. Once the home of Madison County Clerk David Irvine and his family, the Federal-style property now houses unique artifacts like one of the few remaining Revolutionary War uniforms. Fun fact: The neighboring city of Irvine was named after this family because of their political and military influence in the region at the time.
Evening
Kick off the evening with a stroll through the 175-year-old Richmond Cemetery and pay your respects at the tombstones of Civil War soldiers and notable figures like Cassius Clay. Then, grab a slice at Apollo Pizza! Try cleverly named pies like the Gangster or Four Cheeses of the Apocalypse paired with a Kentucky brew. Be sure to order Uncle Jed’s Beer Cheeseburger Sticks—a local favorite.
End your night in the rustic taproom at Dreaming Creek Brewery and sip housemade beers like the Kentucky Common Ale, Wilderness Road Amber Ale, and Family Dog IPA at Richmond’s first and only microbrewery. Alternatively, catch a live show at the EKU Center for the Arts. The spacious amphitheater regularly puts on incredible concerts, plays, and musicals.
A Day for Outdoor Adventures
Morning
Start your day with homestyle comfort food at Rolling Acres Farm Cafe. A working farm, the cafe serves up delicious breakfast staples like fluffy pancakes, fresh pastries and eggs.
Next, tee off at Gibson Bay, a lakeside par 72 course that caters to golfers of all skill levels. Perfect your swing among the lush trees and waterfront views.
Not a golfer? No problem! Tour the farm at River Hill Ranch and learn how to spin alpaca fiber, pet the friendly alpacas, and meet other farm animals like horses and goats. Opt for a unique add-on like an alpaca yoga session, where you’ll practice your shivasana in the countryside with your new furry friends. Check out the gift shop before you go for clothing, accessories, and home accents made from alpaca fiber.
Afternoon
Recharge at Millstone Social, a lively venue for sports lovers and foodies. Grab a Game Day Maroon Sangria or a Millstone Mule and watch the game on one of thirty big-screen TVs. For lunch, order the Water Street Wagyu Burger or dine like a local by getting the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown – roast turkey and ham piled high on sourdough toast and topped with creamy cheese sauce, sliced tomatoes, and bacon.
Alternatively, dine at Madison Garden Bar & Grill, Richmond’s longest-running restaurant. The expansive menu features various American and Italian eats, from spicy shrimp tacos and BBQ wings to New York-style pizza. Once you’ve fueled up, there are several ways to spend an invigorating afternoon outdoors.
Enjoy some fun on the water at Wilgreen Lake. Rent a paddle boat or cast a line for bass, crappie and bluegill. If you’d rather stay on land, saddle up for a horseback ride at Deer Run Stable. The 100-acre ranch offers guided rides for every skill level through the scenic countryside, including pony rides for the little ones.
Evening
Wind down at Chenault Vineyards, a family-owned winery set against rolling hills and endless rows of grapevines. Take a peaceful stroll along the 3.5-mile walking trail, sip artisan wines on the patio, and listen to live performances by local bands. Enjoy an intimate winery tour with a skilled wine-maker for a behind-the-scenes look at how their wines go from vine to bottle. Try the Bourbon Barrel-Aged Red or a crisp, refreshing Riesling. When you’re ready for dinner, pair your wine with a charcuterie board, Margherita pizza, or an Italian panini for a satisfying end to a perfect day in Richmond.
