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48 Hours in Richmond

Perfectly positioned along I-75 and in the heart of Central Kentucky, Richmond makes an ideal home base for a weekend getaway. From local coffee shops and historic landmarks to antique shopping, live music, and scenic views of the Bluegrass State, here’s how you can spend the perfect 48 hours in Richmond.

Inside of Purdy's coffee location on Big Hill Avenue

Day One

Start your morning with a fresh cup of coffee from a local favorite like Purdy’s Coffee Co before strolling through our historic district and admiring the architectural styles. If you’re looking for a way to support local business owners, plan to visit the Madison County Farmers Market located adjacent to Dreaming Creek Brewery. With over 100 market vendors, you are sure to find something you love! The farmers market operates from May through October, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly!

Spend your afternoon discovering Richmond’s rich history by visiting our historic attractions. Tour White Hall State Historic Site, the beautiful estate of abolitionist Cassius Marcellus Clay, or visit the Battle of Richmond Visitor and Battlefield Park to learn more about one of Kentucky’s most significant Civil War battles.

If you are looking for something more outdoorsy, head over to Lake Reba Recreational Complex for walking trails, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. You could also stop by Adventure Falls in the recreational complex to play a game of mini golf or practice your swing inside the batting cages.

When lunch rolls around, enjoy lunch from one of our local restaurants. Richmond offers southern comfort food, burgers, barbecue, and other cuisine styles for your taste buds.

To fill your afternoon, consider visiting one of our animal-centered attractions. If you know anything about Kentucky, you know we love our horses. What better way to see horses than to ride them through the Bluegrass. If you make your reservation in advance, you can ride horses at Stepping Stone Ranch and enjoy the serene nature scene. If horses aren’t your thing, you can experience alpacas up close at River Hill Ranch. Also located in the peaceful countryside, you can learn all about alpacas and what they provide.

Closeup of alpaca at River Hill Ranch

To fill your afternoon, consider visiting one of our animal-centered attractions. If you know anything about Kentucky, you know we love our horses. What better way to see horses than to ride them through the Bluegrass. If you make your reservation in advance, you can ride horses at Stepping Stone Ranch and enjoy the serene nature scene. If horses aren’t your thing, you can experience alpacas up close at River Hill Ranch. Also located in the peaceful countryside, you can learn all about alpacas and what they provide.

As the sun begins to set, settle in for dinner at one of our local favorites before catching live music or simply unwinding with a brew or glass of wine. If you’re craving a sweet treat before calling it a night, you can visit our first Latin American ice cream stop to try a paleta. Amy’s Ice Cream is inspired by the rich tradition of Mexican frozen treats, they honor the flavors, memories, and family moments which have made paletas a beloved part of generations.

Day Two

Start your second day with breakfast at Jackson’s Restaurant and a stroll through Millstone Park.

Enjoy a scenic drive out to Clay’s Ferry Overlook to see the Kentucky River and view of the Bluegrass State. After you take in the view, head to White Hall Park to fish and enjoy the shaded pavilion. If you didn’t have the chance to tour White Hall yesterday, try to squeeze it in to your schedule today. Afterwards, drive about four miles in the opposite direction on 627 to reach Fort Boonesborough State Park for a tour of the replica fort of pioneer life in Kentucky.

After touring White Hall, visit Newby Country Store for lunch before heading out to Interstate 75 to head home. We hope to see you again soon!