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Shelby County, Kentucky is a charming yet high-end area of the Bluegrass state that's known for its bourbon, rich culinary traditions, one-of-a-kind shopping, upscale lodging, small-town charm, rolling hills, and American Saddlebred horses. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Louisville and less than an hour from Lexington, ShelbyKY (Shelbyville, Simpsonville, and Shelby County) is a classic Kentucky getaway. Last year, visitor spending in Shelby County ranked in the top fifth of all Kentucky counties. 

“It's a sweet respite from urban life, featuring lovely stretches of rolling countryside, antiquing, a thrilling foodie scene, the famous Bourbon Trail — and some of the best fried chicken in the country.” | USA Today – May 2023

Bourbon-ThemedExterior photo of Jeptha Creed Distillery, which is located in Shelby County, Kentucky, and is on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®.

  • ShelbyKY is the home to the internationally-known Bulleit Distillery and the only mother-daughter-operated distillery in Kentucky, Jeptha Creed Distillery.
  • Within easy driving distance of all distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour.
  • Home to several farms where corn is grown and processed in the making of bourbon, including the world’s most well-known labels, such as Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey. 
  • A bourbon weekend can easily be created by staying in one of the many upscale lodging options including Bottled in Bond (featured on HGTV), and Saddlebred Suites’ upscale-loft, boutique-hotel experience.

Horsing AroundHorse Ride

  • ShelbyKY is the American Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World and boasts more than 90 Saddlebred farms, many of which can be toured, such as Kismet Farm in Simpsonville. 
  • Red Fern Riding Center is one of only a handful of horseback riding experiences available in Kentucky. 
  • Cerulean Farm is the only combo guest and horse B&B in the state. 
  • Léttleiki Icelandics is a nationally recognized center for the Icelandic Horse and is located on the historic Swallowland Farm, which dates to the early 1800s.

One-of-a-kind shoppingOutlet Shoppes TH & MK

Rich Culinary Traditions Claudia Sanders Fried Chicken

  • Claudia Sanders Dinner House is named for the wife of Colonel Sanders of KFC fame – the chicken is a must try and is the original KFC recipe and methods.
  • The Bell House historic restaurant is known for the Hot Brown and homemade desserts.
  • The ShelbyKY Coffee Trail includes four locally owned and operated boutique coffeehouses, each with its own flair and quirky character.

Outdoor Adventures Men golfing