Top 13 things to do in Richmond – Feature # 1

Welcome to our summer blog the Top 13 things to do in Richmond!  Over the next several weeks we will feature our top attractions.  

Are you fascinated by 18th-century life skills and do you want a glimpse of what pioneer life was like in Kentucky?  You can encounter archaeological findings that have supplied an even more vivid view of the past, and read all about it through lots and lots of interpretive signage. 

Of course, we’re talking about the gateway to the West, Fort Boonesborough in Richmond, KY.  When Daniel Boone and his men arrived at the Kentucky River in 1775, they established Kentucky’s second settlement, known as Fort Boonesborough.  And of course, whom do you think it was named after? Daniel Boone.  Fort Boonesborough is a reconstruction, a replica of a working Fort, complete with the furnishings, the cabins, and the large blockhouses on the corner.  Watch the past come to life with period craft demonstrations such as soap making with Lye candle dipping and of course the ever-popular blacksmith shop.   And make sure you schedule your time in September for an extra added battle: The Fort Siege reenactment from the American Revolutionary War in 1778. The siege of the Fort was led by Chief Blackfish of the Shawnee. 

You can go birding and spot species like woodpeckers and sandhill cranes, all while having a fun-filled time boating out on the Kentucky River, and even go fishing for bluegill, bass, and the elusive river catfish.  Take your bait and tackle. Because they put up a fight. 

And don’t forget to pick up some gifts for your loved ones at the shops at the Transylvania Store.  You can even pick up great gifts reflecting Kentucky’s creative pioneer and frontier heritage. 

The Fort is open April 1 – October 30 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday with the last ticket sold at 4 p.m. The Fort also provides a great campground with primitive and RV parking and miniature golf. playgrounds and large pavilions for great grilling.  And don’t forget to check out the great pool for the family. For more information about Fort Boonesborough and all the other information visitrichmondky.com 

By: Randy Rosanbalm