ShelbyKY — Shelbyville, Simpsonville, and Shelby County, KY — is fondly known as Your Bourbon Destination® and the Saddlebred Capital of the World and is a treasure trove of experiences. From Kentucky bourbon tastings to horseback riding near Louisville, ShelbyKY offers iconic Kentucky adventures. 2025 promises to be an exciting year in ShelbyKY, and in that vein, here are 25 things you can’t miss in 2025:

  1. Barrel Barn at Jeptha CreedBourbon Tasting at Jeptha Creed Distillery | Sip on authentic Kentucky bourbon and learn about the distillation process at Jeptha Creed, a family-owned, ground-to-glass distillery.

  2. Explore the frontier of whiskey at Bulleit Distilling Co. | The ultra-modern distillery is the Kentucky home to the world-famous Bulleit Bourbon. Don’t miss the cocktail bar, where hand-crafted cocktail recipes change seasonally. (The perfect excuse to come back time and time again!)

  3. Horseback Riding at Shelby Trails Park | Explore the beautiful trails on foot or horseback at the picturesque Shelby Trails Park, perfect for riders of all levels. Red Fern Riding Center at Shelby Trails Park is the only horseback riding near Louisville, just 35 minutes from Churchill Downs! 

  4. Enjoy a tasting at Talon Winery | Sample Kentucky Proud wines at Talon Winery’s Shelbyville location. Whether your taste is for dry white wine or sweet reds, or something in between, Talon has the perfect wine for you.

  5. Visit the Shelby County Historical Society | Dive into local history and see numerous artifacts in the Shelby County Historical Society’s rich repository of Shelby County’s past.

  6. Outlet Shoppes TH & MKShop at The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass | Find great deals on top brands at Kentucky’s premier outlet shopping destination.

  7. Get farm-fresh produce at a Farmers Market | Delight in fresh, local produce, artisanal goods, and more at these vibrant community markets held every summer and fall.

  8. Attend a Performance at the Shelby County Community Theatre | Enjoy a show at this charming local theatre known for its captivating performances in an intimate setting.

  9. Golf at Weissinger Hills Golf Course | Tee off at this beautiful course that offers challenging play for golfers at every skill level.

  10. Go shopping at a local boutique | With several locally owned boutiques and shops like Little Mount Lavender Company, The Polka Dotted Pineapple, and Honeysuckles Children’s Boutique, you can find the perfect outfit or gift for everyone in your life.

  11. Claudia Sanders Dinner HouseTry the fried chicken at Claudia Sanders Dinner House | Indulge in Southern comfort food at the restaurant founded by the wife of Colonel Sanders himself.

  12. Take a Scenic Drive through Shelby County’s Countryside | Enjoy the rolling hills and scenic landscapes that make Shelby County a beautiful place to visit.

  13. Visit Wakefield-Scearce Galleries | Browse exquisite antiques and fine art in this unique gallery set in a historic building, set to turn 200 years old in March 2025. (Don’t miss the elaborate Christmas display every November and December!)

  14. Go on a Saddlebred Horse Farm Tour | Learn about the rich equestrian heritage of Shelby County with a guided tour of a Saddlebred horse farm, like Kismet Farm.

  15. Attend the Shelbyville Horse Show | Witness the grace and beauty of Saddlebred horses at this annual, internationally recognized event.

  16. Explore Red Orchard Park | Enjoy hiking trails, a playground, and picnic areas in this family-friendly park. In the fall, adults can enjoy the Black Orchard Haunted House, known for its creepy happenings. 

  17. Bell House Hot BrownTry Kentucky’s best Hot Brown at the Bell House Restaurant | Savor locally sourced ingredients in a cozy atmosphere at this beloved restaurant. We think they have the best Hot Brown in Kentucky! 

  18. Create a hand-crafted piece of art at Gogh Crazy | Find your inner artist with Gogh Crazy’s classes and events, including a paint-and-sip night.

  19. Go pumpkin picking this fall | Visit Gallrein Farms or Mulberry Orchard, both family owned-and-operated farms in ShelbyKY known for their vast fields of pumpkins

  20. Enjoy the flavors of abroad with a delicious meal at Dos Mundos | Explore the flavors of Peru and Asia with a meal at Dos Mundos. (Our favorites? The corn ribs, arroz chaufa, and ramen.)

  21. Explore the Shelbyville Greenway Trail | Walk or bike this scenic trail that winds through some of Shelbyville’s most beautiful areas.

  22. Attend a Local Festival | Time your visit with one of Shelby County’s annual festivals, like the Dogwood Festival held every April. Check our event calendar for an always-up-to-date listing of Shelby County, KY events.

  23. The exterior of Cerulean Farm Bed & BreakfastStay at a Charming Bed and Breakfast | Experience Southern hospitality at its finest with a stay at one of Shelby County’s charming B&Bs.

  24. Enjoy a Day at Clear Creek Park | Spend a day outdoors with activities like fishing, tennis, or a leisurely picnic.

  25. See local works of art with the Shelbyville Sculpture Walk | This self-guided walk through Shelbyville’s historic downtown features eight art installations, all created by local artists.

Shelby County, Kentucky, offers an array of activities that showcase the best of Bluegrass culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in 2025. These are just a few of the fantastic things to do in Your Bourbon Destination®! Plan your visit today and request a visitor guide!