Discover Madison County through its arts and crafts, historic sites, and trails, each with its own focus. In Berea, arts and crafts, public art, and college history are among the defining themes. Fort Boonesborough, White Hall, and the Battle of Richmond offer further historical perspectives.
Arts and Crafts and College History in Berea
The Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea presents works by more than 800 Kentucky artisans in its galleries and exhibitions. Its offerings include special arts events, demonstrations, musical performances, and educational programs. The Café & Grill serves Kentucky Proud products and agricultural products from Kentucky. Visitors interested in exploring different forms of arts and crafts can also find active workshops in ceramics, broom making, weaving, and woodworking at Berea College Student Craft.
At Berea College, professional craftspeople guide more than 75 students in making craft products. The college grew out of a one-room school founded in 1855; the historic campus also includes Ladies Hall, the college’s first brick building. The Berea Public Art Tour features sculptures, fountains, stained glass, and historic architecture. At the Studio Artists in Berea, visitors can watch artists at work. Berea also bears the designation “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky.”
White Hall and Historic Sites
White Hall was the historic residence of Cassius Marcellus Clay. The house was built in the late 18th century, with a substantial addition added in the 1860s. Its design combines Georgian and Italianate styles. White Hall can be explored on a self-guided tour. Signs explain the history of the house and the Clay family; artifacts, antique furniture, and photographs are also on display. Because visiting arrangements may change seasonally, it is best to check visiting options in advance.
Fort Boonesborough in Madison County, Kentucky, is designated a National Historic Landmark. Boone Gap is a historic site on the border between Rockcastle County and Madison County, where visitors can see an actual section of the Boone Trace. The two sites offer different historical points of interest to consider when choosing what to focus on during your visit.
Trails and Outdoor Activities
The John B. Stephenson Walking Trail marks the spot where Daniel Boone and 30 axemen crossed the creek in 1775. The trail is suitable for walking and running, as well as for strollers, bicycles, and wheelchairs. It starts at the Berea Municipal Utilities parking lot; a future connection to the hiking trails at Indian Fort Mountain is planned. A Boone Trace trail was also established along Brushy Fork Creek and incorporated into the city’s and college’s trail system.
The Pinnacles are located in the Berea College Forest. Owsley Fork is suitable for kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching. Another way to enjoy the outdoors is the scenic 9-hole golf course at Berea Country Club. Options range from trails and birdwatching to a round of golf; you can choose based on the activity you want to prioritize during your stay.
Battle History and Richmond
The site of the Battle of Richmond was the scene of the second-largest Civil War battle in Kentucky. The Battle of Richmond Visitors Center and Museum provides an overview of the battle. A reenactment of the Battle of Richmond takes place every August; check the specific event dates when planning your visit. Downtown Richmond includes more than 100 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as three registered historic districts.
Discover more destinations: Berea, Lawrence County, Simpson County, Meade County, Scott, McCracken County, Mercer County, Rowan.
For the main travel overview: Kentucky.
