Community & History
Community
Once a wilderness between Louisville and Frankfort, Shelbyville was founded in 1792 and had a population of 262 by 1800. By the time the Civil War arrived, Shelbyville had a few thousand residents-many of them fought valiantly when the town’s courthouse was attacked by confederate soldiers.
The turn-of-the-19th century saw a building boom, with an architecturally beautiful downtown, a legacy of the era. Through it all, Shelbyville retained its small-town atmosphere- a friendly place to get away from it all and a place to get anywhere you need to go. Now known as the American Saddlebred Capital of the World, due to its 90+ Saddlebred farms, Shelbyville is home to eclectic shops, destination dining and agritourism tours.
Information
There’s a little slice of Kentucky for everyone in Shelby County. Here in the “American Saddlebred Capital of the World” you’ll find authentic Kentucky: a pioneering spirit, rural character and a home-town feel. It’s small-town charm with grand scale shopping, rolling pastureland with plenty to do.
Go antiquing. Play golf. Visit the wineries or distillery. Dine at locally owned eateries – including one created by Colonel Sanders for his wife. Catch a play. Attend a festival. And do what you can only do in Shelby County: Tour an American Saddlebred Horse Farm in the place where the breed began.
ShelbyKY Tourism Commission & Visitors Bureau
219 7th Street
Shelbyville, KY 40065
502-633-6388
Community Partners
Shelby Main Street
City of Shelbyville
City of Simpsonville
Shelby County Government
Upcoming Events
Barrel Tasting Experience at Jeptha Creed Distillery
- Jeptha Creed Distillery
- every week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
This bourbon experience is the most unique of its’ kind. Upon arrival, you will be guided to Jeptha...
Boy Scouts $5 Pumpkin Sale & Free No Mess Pumpkin Decorating
$5 PUMPKIN SALE & FREE NO MESS DECORATING Saturday | September 30 | 1-4pm The Boy Scouts are selling...
Fall Fun on the Farm
- Gallrein Farms
- every week on Saturday until October 28, 2023
A Kentucky favorite, Gallrein Farms was voted as one of the top three farm tourist attractions in...
Live Music at Talon Winery
- Talon Winery
- every week on Saturday
Enjoy free live music at Talon Winery as you enjoy locally crafted wines, many featuring grapes...
Shelby County Farmer's Market
- every week on Saturday until October 28, 2023
An array of fruit, vegetables, flowers, eggs, fresh chicken, pork, beef, turkey, woodcrafts, art,...
Shelbyville Ghost Tour - 7 PM Tour
- every week on Friday, Saturday until October 28, 2023
Take a guided stroll through historic Downtown Shelbyville, Kentucky. Explore our spirited...
Shelbyville Ghost Tour - 9 PM Tour
- every week on Friday, Saturday until October 28, 2023
Take a guided stroll through historic Downtown Shelbyville, Kentucky. Explore our spirited...
Spirit Tasting at Jeptha Creed Distillery
- Jeptha Creed Distillery
- every week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
A way to experience Jeptha Creed when you are short on time. Our free spirit tasting allows...
WAMZ Treat Yourself Weekend Getaway Giveaway
- Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass
- every day until October 6, 2023
WAMZ TREAT YOURSELF SHOPPING SPREE & WEEKEND GETAWAY September 22 - October 6 | Listen to Win!...
Fall Fun on the Farm
- Gallrein Farms
- every week on Sunday until October 29, 2023
A Kentucky favorite, Gallrein Farms was voted as one of the top three farm tourist attractions in...