Your Weekend Bucket List: 10 Can’t-Miss Experiences in Richmond, Kentucky

Encompassing 500 acres, Chenault Vineyards offers stunning views of Kentucky’s rolling hills paired with fruity wines. Stop in for a tasting and sip a flight of their handcrafted spirits, like Bovine Blush with notes of strawberry and blackberry. Take a winery tour and learn about the wine-to-bottle process. On Fridays and Saturdays, enjoy a fun-filled evening of wine and live music. For a scenic stroll, take a walk on the 3.5-mile trail through the grape vines.

Fantastic beer, food and fun are what you’ll find at Dreaming Creek Brewery. Located in the heart of Daniel Boone’s frontier, this no-frills craft brewery offers weekend trivia nights, weekly food trucks and handcrafted brews. Chill in the taproom with a glass of the fan-favorite Peanut Butter Chocolate Milk Stout. Or, grab a seat on the patio and throw back the colorfully named Whiskey Fungus – a trash-can-aged gray ale with notes of hibiscus.

Located on the campus of Eastern Kentucky University, this Broadway-quality performing arts center is the place to go for entertainment in Central Kentucky. Sing along with Broadway-style musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar and Chicago, dance the night away at a concert (The Beach Boys performed here), and laugh out loud at a comedy show.

Journey to the past and experience life on the frontier at Fort Boonesborough State Park. A reconstruction of the settlement Daniel Boone established in 1775, this working fort offers visitors a peek into the lives of early Kentucky settlers. Explore log cabins and blockhouses – all furnished with period items, such as beds, cooking tools and clothing. Watch craft demonstrations by costumed artisans. At the on-site Kentucky River Museum, learn about folks who worked the locks and dams.

Take a detour just outside of Richmond for sweets and more at the Newby Country Store. Founded in 1891, this charming and historic spot (it looks like a tiny little house) serves up over 70 kinds of glass-bottled soda, a large selection of vintage candy and delicious deli sandwiches. It’s the perfect stop during your travels! Order a Cajun Turkey or Pimento sandwich and sit out on their porch as you enjoy your lunch.

Explore an expansive 44-room mansion at the White Hall Historic Site. Built in 1798, this historic site was the former home of notable politicians and writers (like Cassius Clay). Marvel at the Georgian and Italianate-style architecture, from the striking red brick to elongated windows and regal white pillars. Inside, you can explore the many rooms of the house, all furnished with original décor and photographs. You can even see General Green Clay’s sword on display!

Enjoy an afternoon out on the trails by horseback at this ranch in Richmond. No matter your skill level, this ranch specializes in making sure you have a great time as you immerse yourself in Central Kentucky’s scenic landscape. Meet resident horses Rio and Bravo. Take a shorter ride to get your bearings, or experience a two-hour guided tour through Daniel Boone’s frontier and learn about the region’s geography and history.

Apollo Pizza in downtown Richmond serves up old-school pizzeria vibes (checkered floors and all) paired with a fun and eclectic menu. Start with an order of local favorite cheesy garlic sticks and sweet sauce. For a criminally delicious pie – get the Gangster; it’s piled high with sausage, onions and mushrooms. Or, go with the Green Hippie, a mouthwatering mix of pesto, chicken and sundried tomatoes. Wash it down with a craft beer, like the tangerine-flavored New Belgium Citradelic.

Whether you’re looking for vinyl, knickknacks, or clothing, Apparitions Village is a vintage hunter’s dream. Need a dress pattern? No problem. Searching for handcrafted goods? Check out their selection of homemade soy candles. From hats to scarves and furniture, this little shop is filled with unique treasures. Before you leave, pick up a sweet treat – local artisans often sell their baked goods here.

Located in downtown Richmond, this Southern-themed boutique has a thoughtfully curated selection of women’s clothing, accessories, and knickknacks. Try on colorful dresses, look through their selection of costume jewelry, or check out their perfume and lotion selection. Sometimes, they even have cookies and punch sitting out for their guests—snack while you shop!

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