A Day In Georgetown - Travel Inspiration
Written by Dylan Marson
It’s your first day in Georgetown, Kentucky and it’s time to get outside to experience everything the Bluegrass has to offer! There’s so much natural beauty to explore and only so much time in a day, so follow along this helpful itinerary to get some local tips for your own Kentucky adventures.
BREAKFAST - Fava’s of Georgetown
You can’t start your day on an empty stomach, so be sure to stop by Fava’s to fill up on some good ole’ foodie goodness. This historic diner has been family owned & operated for well over 100 years and is a must-visit eatery for those who enjoy “small-town” vibes. They are best known by locals for serving up a delicious Hot Brown, one of Kentucky’s specialty dishes, which they happily serve variations of for breakfast, lunch and dinner! If you come by later in the day, be prepared for a menu full of southern comfort and a selection of absolutely delicious pies sold by the slice.
MORNING - Kayaking The Midway
With full bellies and a growing appetite for adventure, let's take to Kentucky’s longest and loveliest creek for some fun in the sun! Elkhorn Creek stretches over 18 miles long and winds a scenic path that runs right through the heart of Georgetown.
Kayaking The Midway lets visitors enjoy this beautiful waterway via kayak & canoe. Whether you are just wanting to enjoy a quick dip or an all-day expedition, their wonderful service leaves you with nothing but an easy-going experience.
As an early-morning activity, it’s the perfect opportunity to spot local wildlife. We suggest bringing some form of waterproof container for your phones so that you don’t miss the chance to get candid shots of all the woodland creatures you spot on the banks of the creek.
ROYAL SPRING PARK
If you didn’t already know, Georgetown prides itself on its bedrock claims to being the Birthplace of Bourbon. The town itself was founded by the esteemed “Father of Bourbon” Rev. Elijah Craig, who many credit as the first to use charred oak barrels when aging whiskey (A key ingredient to make modern Kentucky Straight Bourbon).
Local legend tells us that Royal Spring is where Craig drew his water for his bourbon enterprise, and those same waters can be viewed today at Royal Spring Park in Downtown Georgetown. Also the site of Kentucky’s oldest stacked stone bridge and the original baptismal steps of Craig’s congregation, the park is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beating heart of Georgetown’s cultural history and even to enjoy a picnic.
LUNCH - Bistro M
Everybody always asks us where the hidden gems & hole-in-the-wall restaurants are, and Bistro M is definitely one of the first places that pops into mind. Located in an unassuming shopping strip, you’d be forgiven for missing this family-owned restaurant as you drive past.
Despite this, Bistro M has quickly become one of Georgetown’s favorite destinations for Mediterranean cuisine. Delicious authentic recipes, quality ingredients and a personal charm are just the tip of the iceberg at this quaint restaurant that will certainly leave a lasting impression on your taste buds!
We highly reccomend their greek Gyros, vegetarian options and absolutely mouth-watering baklava, though we gurantee you'll be left wanting return and experience the rest of their menu.
DOWNTOWN GEORGETOWN, KY
Since you’ve already passed through Downtown, take some time to explore its historic streets! The area is also home to countless locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and more! Shopping small is the lifeblood of any downtown business district, and you are the very people who help small towns like this thrive!
If you’re looking for an instagrammable backdrop to mark the occasion, you can find multiple murals hidden throughout the main street businesses. You can make a game of finding them all and sharing your photos on social media. (Don’t forget to tag us: @Gotogtownky)
There’s also a growing amount of art workshops, throwing classes & wine tasting opportunities you simiply won't want to miss out on. Make sure to check our events calendar ahead of time or contact us to see what's happening in the area!
Horse Country Scenic Driving Tour
If you've never had the chance to truly experience the beauty of Kentucky's iconic horse country, you can't get any closer to it than Georgetown. Follow along one of our beautiful scenic drives and immerse yourself in the winding roads, the miles of double fences and the majesty of Kentucky's favorite four-legged residents.
For those who want to drive, the Bluegrass country driving tour is definitely your ticket. This popular route takes you through country roads and past the legendary landscape of the BLuegrass Region. Have a map mailed to you or pick one up at the Georgetown/SCott County Tourism office when you're in town.
Cyclists get the pick of the litter with countless country roads and routes to choose from. Georgetown is home to a leading central Kentucky cycling event - Horsey Hundred. Featuring 30-100 mile rides in areas in and around Georgetown, it attracts thousands of cyclists from across the country every year. Check out our guide to the routes they take and get started planning your own scenic journey.
For a more rigid trail experience, stop by the Kentucky Horse Park and follow along the Legacy Trail to enjoy over 12 miles of this ever-expanding cycling path through the heart of horse-country. Download a digital map by clicking here!
DINNER - Local Feed
By dinnertime you’ll be wanting to find some more of the area’s local flavor, and no place does that better than Local Feed. As a farm-to-table restaurant, almost all of their ingredients are locally sourced. This means they boast a seasonal menu that is constantly changing based on what they have available. But don’t let that make you think the food will be any less delicious.
While their menu can accommodate most any palette, we highly recommend trying their fried chicken, which they take great pride in. It certainly checks the box as a local favorite and is always cooked to perfection for some crispy goodness. Pair that with a side serving of their locally famous Mac N’ Cheese (served out of a cast iron skillet) and you will be setting yourself up for the best food coma of your life.
Top off your night by treating yourself to an expertly curated selection of Bourbon and an assortment of top-notch cocktails for every taste. You can tell all your friends that you sipped on the spirit of Kentucky just steps from where it was first made.
Looking for more travel or day-trip inspiration? Check out our other blogs and discover everything the Bluegrass has to offer!
Author: Dylan Marson
Dylan Marson is the Communications Manager for Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
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Generate your own Hallmark* moments in Georgetown
Written by Kathy Witt
The setting: A picturesque, historically preserved small town in Kentucky
The cast: Visiting couples; local shopkeepers, restauranteurs, chefs, artists and inkeepers; extras
The plot: Couples seeking romance and adventure discover it in Georgetown, KY.
There is a fun Hallmark movie generator online where one can plug in options to create that perfect Hallmark movie.
A (sassy) (executive) is unhappy because (her cold businessman boyfriend doesn't share her love of Valentine's Day). Everything changes when she meets a (nerdy) (friend she hasn't seen since childhood,) while they're (both fighting over the same item at the bookstore). Through crazy circumstances and with a little help from (a mysterious stranger), she soon discovers (love/happiness/the magic of a small-town holiday).
Although this generator is specific to Christmas movies, it can be used to generate some perfect Hallmark moments in Georgetown for Valentine’s Day or any romantic outing:
A (romance-seeking) (couple) is unhappy because (they took a wrong turn). Everything changes when they find themselves in a (gorgeous Victorian downtown lined with shops, restaurants and art galleries) while (driving down Main Street). Through crazy circumstances and with a little help from (mysterious strangers - Think shop owners, chefs and innkeepers), they soon discover (love/happiness/the magic of a small-town Valentine's Day).
Plug in your choices and generate and create your own picture-perfect Hallmark moment and get swept off your feet in one of Kentucky’s prettiest small towns.
1. Enter the dreamy Fabled Forest, a cozy book nook and gift shop, and pick up a Magnetic Poetry Kit to express your love for each other.
2. Create together at a hands-on art class at one of Georgetown's shop/studios: a piece of pottery at Elkhorn Pottery, stained glass artwork at Heirlooms & Gretchen's or other craft.
3. Attend a gourmet cooking class with Chef Rodney of Rodney's on Broadway at Bleubird Studio, then share the delectable three-course meal in the studio's lovely and airy demonstration kitchen.
4. Enter a world of designer diamonds and jewelry at Cravens & Lewis to drool over the possibilities, then hide away at one of Georgetown's more than five dozen unique lodgings for the weekend.
5. Stare into one another's eyes over a French 75, Boulevardier or other fancy craft cocktail at Local Feed Seasonal Kitchen + Craft Bar or warm your hands (and hearts) with an Irish coffee laced with Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Whiskey at authentic Irish pub, Slainte Public House.
6. Amble arm-in-arm through historic, lamppost-lined Downtown, then pop into The Wine Project, Georgetown's craft wine shop, and curate your own tasting flight from the shop's self-serve WineStations.
7. Wander Georgetown's art galleries art galleries then choose a piece of artwork created by a local artist that catches each of your eye. 
8. Linger over dinner at a linen-draped table for two at Rodeny's on Broadway, either on the paved courtyard or inside one of the gallery-like dining rooms and savor prime beef steaks and an intimate ambience.
*Hallmark channel is an American cable telvision network owned by Hallmark Media, a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards. The channel broadcasts family-oriented general entertainment programming, including television series and made-for-TV movies, among them the highly successful Countdown to Crhistmas, a beloved holiday tradition for millions of viewers. For more information, visit www.hallmarkchannel.com.
Author: Kathryn Witt
Kathryn Witt is an award-winning travel and lifestyle writer, syndicated columnist and author of several books, including Secret Cincinnati, The Secret of the Belles and Atlanta Georgia: A Photographic Portrait. A member of SATW, Authors Guild and the Society of Children’s Books & Illustrators, she lives in northern Kentucky.
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5 Essential Pre-Visit Steps for Georgetown, Kentucky Travelers
Written by Dylan Marson
Travel is constantly evolving and that means making the most of your experiences can’t always be done off the cuff. Even just a little bit of preparation can make all the difference to take your adventures to the next level. Whether it’s reserving unique tours, exclusive visitor experiences or discovering local hidden gems, here's three things to do BEFORE you hit the roads that will give you the best possible Georgetown, Kentucky experience.
1. Explore Our Website!
Yes, it’s a shameless plug, but it’s also the best piece of advice we can give you if you’re planning on coming to Georgetown. Peruse our extensive listing of attractions, things to do, dining guides, blogs, local events and more! This is the ultimate one-stop resource for planning your trip so make sure you take advantage of it!
2. Secure Those Reservations!
I’m sure you’ve made reservations on trips before, and for most restaurants or paid experiences you can probably get by squeezing in a day or two beforehand. The obstacle that many travelers run into, however, comes with free tours. Did you know that most free tours in Central Kentucky are completely booked up to 3 months in advance?
If you plan on taking a free guided tour through Georgetown’s massive Toyota Motor Manufacturing Plant or experiencing the Bourbon Trail at the nearby Buffalo Trace Distillery, go ahead and secure those reservations now while you can. They’re free anyway, so you’ve got nothing to lose!
3. Consult a Tourism Professional!
Wouldn't it be nice if you just had someone who could plan your trip for you to take all the work out of it? Well....you kind of do!
Our welcome center is always staffed with helpful tourism professionals to take your calls and help you plan your next visit to the heart of the Bluegrass! Whether it's attraction information, dining guides or things to do, we are always happy to help our visitors make the best of their Georgetown experience. Calling in is also the best way to get the low-down on any hidden gems or local favorites you simply won't want to miss out on during your stay!
Give us a call: 502-863-2547
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat | 9am-5pm
4. Pack for Any Weather!
As many Kentucky residents will tell you, our weather can truly change on a dime. Especially during the seasonal transitions from Summer-Fall & Winter-Spring. Hot or cold, make sure you’re prepared to enjoy your Kentucky travels to the fullest.
Completing these three simple tasks sets you up for success on your Georgetown adventures! Get out there and make the most of your time in the Bluegrass knowing you’re getting the complete Bluegrass experience. Just don't forget to share your adventures on social media with #GoToGtown for a chance to get featured by us!
5. What's On The Calendar?
Lining up your travel plan with local events is a great way to craft a truly unique travel experience. That's why it's so important to keep up with our online events calendar and follow our social media pages to keep up with whats going on in the area! Whether it's catching the races at nearby Keeneland or signing up for unique workshops & tours at our local businesses & attractions, the time of year you visit Georgetown, Kentucky can sometimes make all the difference in your stay.
Check us out on Facebook & Instagram to get the latest daily updates on whats new & cool in the area.
Author: Dylan Marson
Dylan Marson is the Public Relations Assistant for Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
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6 Unbeatable Experiences For Cozy Getaways In Georgetown, Kentucky
Written by Dylan Marson
The winter season is in full swing, which means temperatures are dropping and it's time to seek out those cozy hometown vibes you only ever see on the Hallmark channel! The kind of experiences where you really get to sit down and immerse yourself in the small-town aesthetic. Where shopkeepers know customers by name, locals sit down for the latest gossip & travelers are welcomed into a world of small-town charm. Start making your own hallmark moments with these 5 cozy experiences that will warm your heart on your next visit to Georgetown, Kentucky.
1. A Piece of Pie At The Local Diner
Every Georgetownian knows where to find a fresh slice of pie! Fava's of Georgetown has been an iconic family-owned diner for over 100 years and serves as a hub for the community still today. With any given visit you'll run into all manner of locals coming together for some southern style food, local gossip and of course their famous pies. Wanting to get the full Kentucky experience? Make sure to grab an order of their Hot Brown as well; It's a Kentucky specialty you won't want to miss out on!
2. The Small-Town Bookstore, But Better
Neil Gaiman once said: "A town isn't a town without a bookstore. It may call itself a town, but unless it's got a bookstore, it knows it's not foolin' a soul." Fabled Forest checks that box to a tee in the heart of Historic Downtown Georgetown. One of Georgetown's newest local businesses, it has quickly become a favorite for those looking to enjoy locally sourced artistry, southern charm and a quiet nook surrounded with books. We also can't forget to mention that they are located directly above The Wine Project, which offers walk-in wine tasting experiences featuring small wineries across the globe. So whether you're expanding your literary horizons or testing your pallate on the latest flavors, you'll have found the perfect place to escape into Georgetown's hidden charm.
3. Snuggle Up At The Cat Cafe
Cat lovers and coffee drinkers come together in one spot to combine their two passions for the perfect fusion. Central Purrk Cat Cafe Central Purrk Cat Cafe offers a host of cat companions to warm your soul alongside a cup of joe. Working in partnership with the Scott County Humane Society, every one of the kitties in this establishment is adoptable, and visitors are enouraged to get to know each and every one of them by spending some time in their enclosure. Enjoy coffee, wine, beer & more at this unique cafe destination and you might just go home with a new member of the family.
4. The Local Watering Hole
Cozy on up to the bar and warm yourself up with local brews and maybe even some mushy peas! Slainte Public House remains Georgetowns one & only authentic irish pub. With a close-quarters interior that goes out of its way to replicate the feeling of pubs in Dublin, it is one of the most popular spots to wind down after a long shift at work and enjoy the comraderie of your fellow pub-goers. Raise a toast with a warm touch and savor an authentic Irish coffee alongside a delicious irish-inspired menu! Top it all off with live music on the weekends and you've got the perfect spot to warm yourself up on cold winter nights!
5. Experience The "Kentucky Hug"
The Kentucky hug is a sensation that is well known to bourbon drinkers across the globe; a warming sensation that grips you on your first sip of Kentucky's iconic spirit. It's one of the reasons why bourbon is the main ingredient in many Kentuckians' favorite drink for the winter months. Indulge in the timeless comfort of a classic hot toddy, featuring the rich warmth of bourbon, the soothing sweetness of honey, and a hint of fresh lemon juice. Sip & savor the cozy elegance of this timless drink at Rodney's on Broadway or Local Feed, two iconic Georgetown destinations renown for the mastery of bourbon.
6. A Warm Oasis Of Kentucky Spirit
Grab a glass of your favorite bourbon and pair it with a selection of premium cigars at this cozy oasis where no one is a stranger & you'll always find a warm welcome. Leaf & Barrel Cigar & Bourbon Lounge provides a perfect cozy hideaway for cigar & bourbon enjoyers. Founded to create a place where any and all can come together to share their passion for cigars, the interior provides a relaxed, open & airy environment with groupings of cushy leather sofas and oversized chairs. With live music on the weekends, it becomes a lively place to raise your spirits & enjoy the flavors of the Bluegrass.
Author: Dylan Marson
Dylan Marson is the Public Relations Assistant for Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
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2023 Halloween Activities In Georgetown, KY
Written by Dylan Marson
It’s that time of the year again where ghosts, ghouls and goblins are running rampant in the Bluegrass! Halloween and the spooky season brings with it a whole host of activities that offer up something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your masks, put on your costumes and let's jump into some hauntingly fun events in Georgetown, KY!
Explore Kentucky After Dark
There’s something strange in the neighborhood, and we don’t have any ghostbusters on call. Just beneath the surface of this unsuspecting Kentucky community, there lies an uncanny number of strange tales and unusual experiences just waiting to be discovered.
If you’ve ever wanted to explore Kentucky’s more haunting side, now is your chance! Kentucky After Dark highlights a dozen different communities across the Bluegrass with tales of ghosts, cryptids and mysterious beasts of legend and lore.
Start YOUR journey today in Georgetown, KY and brave the haunted highway of Dead Man’s Hollow!
Gtown After Hours | October 13th
Looking for the perfect fall deals? Join Historic Downtown Georgetown “after hours” on October 13th as participating businesses stay open later to 7pm. Special deals, discounts and offerings make this the perfect time to finish off your Halloween shopping and kick off the spooky season by shopping small!
Location: Downtown Georgetown, KY
Haunted Trails of Whispering Woods | October 13-29
Whispering Woods Riding Stables returns with its iconic haunted trails every weekend October 13-29! Enjoy the spookiest wagon of your life for just $15 per victim- er…person and travel deep into the woods on a harrowing journey of Halloween fun. Wagon rides begin at 7:30pm and leave every 20 minutes. The final wagon leaves at 10:00pm.
Location: Whispering Woods Riding Stables | 225 Wright Ln. Georgetown, KY
The Crawl - Kentucky Horse Park | October 14th
Celebrate the spooky season at the Kentucky Horse Park! Join the International Museum of the Horse for this unique event showcasing the many horse cemeteries around the park and the stories of the ghosts that haunt the grounds.
Location: The Kentucky Horse Park | 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY
A Celebration of Vampire Literature at Fabled Forest | October 14th
Meet the authors of 'Fiona's Guardians' & 'A Fury'! Dan Klefstad & Eva Vertrice will sign copies of their novels & read exerpts for visitors in Historic Downtown Georgetown's newest bookstore, Fabled Forest on October 14th from 4pm-6pm. Join in a celebration of vampire literature, grab a glass of halloween themed red wine from The Wine Project & peruse one of the coziest bookshops in the heart of horse country!
Location: Fabled Forest | 100 S Broadway St. Georgetown, KY
Fall-O-Ween & Thrilled To Give in Downtown Georgetown | October 21st
Come on out to Royal Springs Park in Downtown Georgetown October 21st from 5:30pm-6:30pm for games & trick-or-treat fun! Then join the fun at Thrilled to Give on Main Street at 7pm for a costume contest.
Location: Royal Spring Park | S Water St. & Main St. Georgetown, KY
Moonlight Fridays at Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse | October 26th
Join Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse 9am-9pm on Fridays as we celebrate with lots of fun and excitement in the night. A community bonfire, s'mores packages, Darkside Hayrides, corn maze (Flash light required) and more for the ultimate start to your spooky weekend plans!
Location: Bi-Water Farm| 887 Cincinnati Rd, Georgetown, KY
Hallowhinny Show at Kentucky Horse Park | October 29th
Celebrate Halloween with horses! Visit the Kentucky Horse Park Sunday, October 29, to see horses and riders dressed in their Halloween costumes for the Hallowhinny show. Wear your costume & trick-or-treat the park, and visit Cememtery Chats throughout the day to learn the history of the horses laid to rest at the Kentucky Horse Park
Location: Kentucky Horse Park| 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY
Halloween Party At Slainte Public House | October 28th
Georgetown’s favorite Irish Pub is ringing in the spooky season with a classic Halloween Party & costume contest October 28th 7pm-9pm. Live music and cash prizes for solo and group entries await! Registration for the costume contest is 7pm-9pm and winners will be announced at 10pm. $5 per entry
Location: Slainte Public House | 320 E Main St. Georgetown, KY
Murder Mystery Theater at Broussard's Delta Kitchen | October 30th
A delicious dinner, a murder mystery and a night of Halloween fun fit for the entire family! Enjoy another fantastic performance by Adventure Theatre as they perform "A Mummy's Memoir" in historic downtown Georgetown. SIgn up for this delicious mystery if you dare! Costumes are encouraged but not mandatory.
Location: Broussard's Delta Kitchen | 135 East Main Street. Georgetown, KY
Downtown Spooktacular | October 31st
Downtown businesses welcome trick-or-treaters on October 31st from 11am-2pm! Stop by participating shops as they hand out candy for the kids dressed in costume. Just don’t forget to shop some of those spooky season deals while you’re out there!
Location: Downtown Georgetown, KY
Author: Dylan Marson
Dylan Marson is a Public Relations Assistant for Georgetown/Scott County Tourism.
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