Tourism in Kentucky

In addition to creating 144,000 jobs statewide, the tourism and travel industry contributes more than $7.1 billion to Kentucky's economy and $783 million in local and state tax revenue. Kentuckians' hospitality is legendary, from the urban area of Louisville to the smaller cities and towns that date back to the original travels of Daniel Boone.

The Commonwealth's rich history beckons to many to revisit a number of historic eras. Actors recreate the trials early settlers endured. Men, women and children take part in weekend encampments, marking the times when the Civil War pitted family against family. Museums and other historic settlements attract still more visitors.

Scenic Thoroughbred farms are a major draw for visitors to the Bluegrass. The historic Keeneland racecourse in Lexington serves as a monument to the finest moments in Thoroughbred racing, while Churchill Downs in Louisville stands as the epitome of thoroughbred racing. The annual Junior League Horse Show brings in the creme dela creme of Saddlebred horses from around the world to compete in dozens of events.

However long they stay, visitors enjoy the warm welcome Kentuckians offer. Throughout the region, there is a wide range of hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfast style inns available. Meals can be enjoyed in settings that vary from familiar fast food and small town diners to country-style restaurants and barbecue houses to five-star restaurants featuring the finest food available anywhere.

Web Links

Tour Kentucky
Newcomer's Guide to Kentucky Heartland
Lexington, KY
Commonwealth of KY homepage
NKY Meetings & Conventions

The Lane Report Articles on Tourism

April 2000: "The Barbeque Capital of the World:" Owensboro

March 2000: Kentucky's Weird, Wonderful Museums

February 2000: A State Divided: Civil War Attractions

January 2000: Extending Southern Hospitality (Feature Article)

December 1999: Bed-and Breakfasts

October 1999: Mammoth Cave

September 1999: The Arts & Crafts Center of Berea

August 1999: Kentucky's State Park

July 1999: The Kentucky Bourbon Trail

March 1999: Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial

February 1999: Bracken County's Augusta

January 1999: Pleasant Hill's Shaker Village

May 1998: Perryville's Elmwood Inn (Feature Article)

January 1998: Conventions Strengthen Local Economy

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