Top Places to See When Driving from Bardstown, Kentucky to Pioneer Village, Kentucky

Driving from Bardstown, Kentucky to Pioneer Village, Kentucky is a wonderful way to explore the beauty of the Bluegrass State. The road trip takes you through rolling hills, idyllic towns, and historic sites. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing drive, this route has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top places to see when driving from Bardstown to Pioneer Village.

The Historic Downtown Bardstown

Our journey starts in Bardstown, which has been voted the most beautiful small town in America. Bardstown's historic downtown is a must-visit with its charming shops, restaurants, and museums. You can take a stroll down the tree-lined sidewalks, explore the Bourbon Heritage Center, or visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park. If you're a fan of history, the Civil War Museum at the Old Bardstown Village is a must-visit. Don't forget to try some of the famous local cuisine, such as bourbon-glazed pork chops, country ham, and grits.

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest

Heading south from Bardstown, you will find the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. This 15,625-acre forest is one of the largest protected natural areas in Kentucky. The forest is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 8,000 species of trees and plants. The arboretum also features over 40 miles of hiking trails, a canopy tree walk, and the Edible Garden.

Jim Beam Distillery

As you journey south on your road trip, you must stop at the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont. This world-famous bourbon distillery is an integral part of Kentucky's bourbon industry. The distillery offers tours that take you through the entire bourbon-making process, from mashing and fermenting to distilling and aging. You can also taste some of the best bourbons made in the world at their tasting room.

Bernheim Forest Giant Hand Sculpture

One of the unique attractions of Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is the Bernheim Forest Giant Hand Sculpture. The sculpture, created by artist Dennis Oppenheim, features an enormous hand emerging from the forest floor. The hand is made of aluminum, and at 20 feet tall, it's hard to miss. The sculpture is located on the Guerilla Hollow Trail, and the hike to the hand is definitely worth the trip.

Salt River

As you continue on your journey from Bardstown to Pioneer Village, you will encounter the Salt River. This beautiful river is perfect for recreational activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching. The river is surrounded by rolling hills, farmland, and forests, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a must-visit attraction on your road trip. The park features the historic mansion that inspired Stephen Foster to write the famous song "My Old Kentucky Home." The mansion is open for tours, and you can see the original furniture, artwork, and other antiques. The park also has picnic areas, a campground, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

The drive from Bardstown, Kentucky to Pioneer Village, Kentucky is a great way to explore the beauty of the Bluegrass State. From the historic downtown Bardstown to the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, there's something for everyone on this route. The Jim Beam Distillery, the Bernheim Forest Giant Hand Sculpture, the Salt River, and My Old Kentucky Home State Park are all must-visit attractions. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road. An adventure through Kentucky's scenic countryside awaits you!