Bardstown was recently voted Best Small Town in America

Bardstown, Kentucky is one of the oldest cities in the state settled by European Americans during the 1780s. Though it’s impossible to cover the rich history of a city that is also equally beautiful, here are some of its highlights.

The Courthouse Square is one of the city’s oldest and best known landmarks and adjacent to it sits The Old Talbot Tavern that was built in 1779. Abraham Lincoln, Daniel Boone and even the exiled French King Louis Phillipe are said to have stayed there. Legend has it that bullet holes in the upstairs wall were made by none other than Jesse James. The tavern is also a hot spot for ghost encounters.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a 6-day celebration of the production of bourbon in Bardstown, with black tie galas and activities for all ages. And of course plenty of historical tours, like an up close look at the history of whiskey production at the Oscar Getz Museum.

Perhaps no venue in Bardstown is more celebrated than My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Here, you’ll find the mansion that inspired Stephen Foster to write Kentucky’s state song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” “Stephen Foster – The Musical” is Kentucky’s official outdoor outdoor musical that you runs throughout the summer.

The Bardstown, Nelson County area is full of things to do and it’s beauty never ceases to amaze those that visit or are fortunate enough to live there.  As I can attest to, it’s a truly amazing place to raise a family. You won’t find a city with more history, scenery and southern hospitality than right here in Bardstown and the surrounding areas.

For all the best sights and sounds of Bardstown, Kentucky, as well as information on schools, community organizations and much more, please use the form to the right to contact me.

Helpful Community Links

• Bardstown/Nelson County Quick Facts
• Bardstown/Nelson County Chamber of Commerce
• Bardstown Visitor’s Center
• Bardstown & Nelson County Maps