Page 44 - DreamScapes Magazine | Spring/Summer 2024

Horsing Around in Georgetown, Kentucky
ENJOY TRAILS, HORSES AND A SPLASH (OR TWO) OF BOURBON
BY JESSICA GEDGE
IF YOU’RE A HORSE LOVER with a pen- chant for bourbon, Georgetown, Kentucky is the place to be. Considered the Bluegrass State’s fastest-growing urban centre, this charming small town in Central Kentucky packs in the big, bold monikers. There’s the South’s brassiest belles, and of course, the granddaddy of them all, the birthplace of bourbon.
A favourite hub for snowbirds, is it any wonder Georgetown, Kentucky is quickly turning into a year-round destination for Canadian road-trippers?
Conveniently located on the legendary I- 75, here are more reasons to veer off the main drag.
Trails for Days
Georgetown is quintessential southern out- doors. With quiet country roads and vast swaths of farmland, you’ll spot barns, scenic trails and rushing creeks. Outdoor enthusi- asts can kayak, paddle or fish along the tree-fringed Elkhorn Creek, a local gem that meanders past ribbons of green with plenty of rest spots for deep contemplation.
For a more challenging adventure, strap
on your helmet and get ready for a classic Kentucky trail that’s pitted in limestone out- croppings. At the Skullbuster mountain biking trail, navigate the log rollovers, planks, bridges and rocky switchbacks.
Champions and Hard-Knockers
At the Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm, it’s your chance to see award-winning champion horses at this horse retirement home. The 55-hectare farm is home to the oldest living Kentucky Derby winner Silver Charm and other famous horses like Hall of Fame member Lava Man.
In for more horse encounters? At the Kentucky Horse Park see shows and compe- titions, enjoy a horse-drawn trolley tour, and meet racing legends. Hop in the saddle for a horseback trail ride or pony ride too. Don’t miss the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum, all on-site.
A Historical Lesson, Grand Kentucky Style
Roam through the palatial halls of one of the finest Greek Revival-style mansions in
America: Ward Hall. The former private resi- dence of Junius Ward, one of the wealthiest men in the South (he played a key role in the development of the Kentucky thoroughbred and more), is open for tours. See a treasure trove of memorabilia as you roam the rooms. To add to the home’s legendary status, sassy Sallie Ward, Junius and Matilda’s niece, once held court, hosting lavish balls, amassing a fortune by marrying four millionaires and scandalizing polite society. Now I do declare!
The Granddaddy of all Bourbon Tours
There’s a warm Kentucky breeze as you sip the finest distilled bourbon around. On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll encounter this combo in a trifecta of taste, scenery and history. Georgetown, the birthplace of bourbon, while not directly on the trail is in the heart of Bourbon Country. Visit popular distilleries nearby. DS
TRAVEL PLANNER
For trip planning in Georgetown, Kentucky see georgetownky.com
44 DREAMSCAPES SPRING/SUMMER 2024
PHOTOS: GEORGETOWNKY.COM