If you’re a horse lover with a penchant for bourbon, Georgetown, Kentucky is the place to be. Considered the Bluegrass State’s fastest-growing urban centre, this charming small town in Central Kentucky packs in the big, bold monikers. There’s the South’s brassiest belles, and of course, the granddaddy of them all, the birthplace of bourbon.

A favourite hub for snowbirds, is it any wonder Georgetown, Kentucky is quickly turning into a year-round destination for Canadian road-trippers?

Conveniently located on the legendary I-75, here are more reasons to veer off the main drag.

Trails for Days

Georgetown is quintessential southern outdoors. With quiet country roads and vast swaths of farmland, you’ll spot barns, scenic trails and rushing creeks. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, paddle or fish along the tree-fringed Elkhorn Creek, a local gem that meanders past ribbons of green with plenty of rest spots for deep contemplation.

For a more challenging adventure, strap on your helmet and get ready for a classic Kentucky trail that’s pitted in limestone outcroppings. At the Skullbuster mountain biking trail, navigate the log rollovers, planks, bridges and rocky switchbacks.

Champions and Hard-Knockers

At the Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, it’s your chance to see award-winning champion horses at this horse retirement home. The 55-hectare farm is home to the oldest living Kentucky Derby winner Silver Charm and other famous horses like Hall of Fame member Lava Man.

In for more horse encounters? At the Kentucky Horse Park see shows and competitions, enjoy a horse-drawn trolley tour, and meet racing legends. Hop in the saddle for a horseback trail ride or pony ride too. Don’t miss the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum, all on-site.

A Historical Lesson, Grand Kentucky Style

Roam through the palatial halls of one of the finest Greek Revival-style mansions in America: Ward Hall. The former private residence of Junius Ward, one of the wealthiest men in the South (he played a key role in the development of the Kentucky thoroughbred and more), is open for tours. See a treasure trove of memorabilia as you roam the rooms. To add to the home’s legendary status, sassy Sallie Ward, Junius and Matilda’s niece, once held court, hosting lavish balls, amassing a fortune by marrying four millionaires and scandalizing polite society. Now I do declare!

The Granddaddy of all Bourbon Tours

There’s a warm Kentucky breeze as you sip the finest distilled bourbon around. On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll encounter this combo in a trifecta of taste, scenery and history. Georgetown, the birthplace of bourbon, while not directly on the trail is in the heart of Bourbon Country. Visit popular distilleries nearby.

Travel Planner

For trip planning in Georgetown, Kentucky see georgetownky.com