Story Ideas

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

Hauntings

The historic town of Shelbyville has been around since 1792, so you better believe there are some lingering spirits and ghosts.