Keene KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Keene, Kentucky.
1. Mill Ridge Farm
THOROUGHBRED HORSE BREEDING
Mill Ridge Farm offers an immersive experience into Kentucky's world-renowned thoroughbred industry. Guests can tour this iconic breeding farm, learn about its storied history, and meet future champions of horse racing. Guided tours showcase both the natural beauty of Bluegrass country and the meticulous care given to the horses.
2. Connemara Golf Course
SCENIC PUBLIC GOLF
Connemara Golf Course provides a picturesque 18-hole layout situated among the rolling hills just outside Keene. The course is known for its well-maintained greens, friendly atmosphere, and panoramic Kentucky countryside views. Players of all skill levels can enjoy a relaxed day of golf in close proximity to Keene.
3. Commonwealth Custom Experiences
UNIQUE LOCAL TOURS
Commonwealth Custom Experiences specializes in tailor-made tours highlighting the best of Kentucky, from distilleries to private farms. Visitors can craft their own itinerary or choose from expertly curated adventures that often include exclusive tastings and behind-the-scenes access. This attraction offers personalized service for travelers seeking authentic regional experiences.
4. Jake's Cigar Bar & Lounge
CIGAR LOUNGE AND BAR
Jake's Cigar Bar & Lounge is a popular spot for relaxing with premium cigars and expertly crafted cocktails just outside Keene. The lounge provides a welcoming ambiance, live music events, and a wide selection of spirits and local brews. It's a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors seeking a laid-back evening in the Bluegrass.
5. Wildside Winery
FAMILY-OWNED VINEYARD
Wildside Winery invites guests to explore Kentucky's wine country, offering tastings and tours in a charming rural setting. The vineyard produces a variety of award-winning wines from estate-grown grapes, and visitors can relax on the patio overlooking the vines. Special events and live music make this a lively stop for wine lovers.
6. Equus Run Vineyards
HISTORIC WINE ESTATE
Equus Run Vineyards blends scenic beauty with flavorful wines on its lush 38-acre property near Keene. Tourists can enjoy tastings, explore the picturesque grounds, and attend seasonal concerts held in the amphitheater. The vineyard's riverside locale and historic stone buildings add to its distinctive charm.
7. The Thoroughbred Center
HORSE TRAINING FACILITY
The Thoroughbred Center offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of thoroughbred horse training. Daily tours give visitors a glimpse into the horses' morning workouts and the routines of trainers and jockeys. The facility is a must-see for equestrian enthusiasts exploring the Bluegrass region.
8. Jessamine Creek Gorge
HIKING AND NATURE TRAIL
Jessamine Creek Gorge features rugged hiking trails winding through a scenic, forested ravine just a short drive from Keene. The area is ideal for nature hikes, birdwatching, and spotting native wildflowers amid cascading streams. This hidden gem showcases Kentucky's natural beauty for outdoor adventurers.
9. Camp Nelson National Monument
CIVIL WAR HERITAGE SITE
Camp Nelson National Monument preserves a pivotal Civil War site known for its role as a Union supply depot and African American recruitment center. Visitors can tour the museum, walk interpretive trails, and learn about the camp's legacy in emancipation history. The monument is a moving destination for those interested in American history.
10. Waveland State Historic Site
ANTEBELLUM MANSION TOUR
Waveland State Historic Site transports guests into Kentucky's antebellum past with guided tours of its beautifully restored Greek Revival mansion. The property features original outbuildings, lush gardens, and hosts historic demonstrations. Costumed interpreters bring 19th-century plantation life vividly to life.
11. Taylor Made Farm
RENOWNED STUD FARM
Taylor Made Farm is one of the leading thoroughbred breeding operations in the country. Guests can join tours to meet champion racehorses and learn about the farm's role in the global horse industry. The rolling pastures and state-of-the-art facilities provide a classic slice of Kentucky's equestrian tradition.
12. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
HISTORIC UTOPIAN COMMUNITY
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is America's largest restored Shaker community and a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore preserved 19th-century buildings, enjoy hands-on workshops, and hike through scenic trails across the sprawling countryside. The living history museum offers insight into the Shaker way of life and values.
13. Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate
STATESMAN'S HISTORIC HOME
Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate invites guests to tour the former home of renowned Kentucky statesman Henry Clay. The estate's museum, gardens, and guided tours illuminate Clay's legacy and the architectural splendor of the 19th-century mansion. The grounds host cultural events and provide a peaceful urban retreat.
14. Downtown Nicholasville Historic District
CHARMING MAIN STREET
The Downtown Nicholasville Historic District features beautiful 19th-century buildings, locally owned boutiques, and inviting cafes. This walkable area invites exploration of its vibrant shops, public art, and seasonal festivals. The district serves as a cultural and social hub for Jessamine County.
15. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
NATURE PRESERVE AND TRAILS
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary encompasses over 700 acres of meadows, forests, and streams with more than 10 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can explore the sanctuary's diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife, and enjoy panoramic overlooks of the Kentucky River. Educational programs and guided hikes are offered throughout the year.