Bardstown is rich in historical attractions, and one of those gems is My Old Kentucky Home State Park, which invites you to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. The park is renowned for its stunning Federal Hill mansion, a grand estate that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” With its beautifully preserved architecture and lush, scenic grounds, the park offers a captivating glimpse into Kentucky’s antebellum past.
One of the park’s standout attractions is The Stephen Foster Story, an entertaining outdoor musical that brings the local icon’s life and music to the stage. For decades, this performance has been a summer tradition, thrilling audiences with its engaging storytelling and timeless melodies. Beyond the musical, the park boasts a variety of activities that make it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Before you start making your plans in Bardstown, you’ll want to secure your lodging. As its name suggests, Bourbon Manor B&B is a dream destination for bourbon enthusiasts, celebrating the spirit every day of the year. This award-winning, historic bed and breakfast features ten spacious, antique-appointed, and bourbon-themed guest rooms. Centrally located in Bardstown, Kentucky, it’s the perfect lodging for enjoying distillery tours and tastings, historical sites, and outdoor adventures at My Old Kentucky Home! Book your room today and start planning.
My Old Kentucky Home State Park & The Stephen Foster Story
Why add My Old Kentucky Home State Park to your itinerary? The park not only celebrates Kentucky’s historical and musical heritage but also offers an array of activities that ensure a memorable visit. From touring the elegant mansion to enjoying recreational opportunities, there’s something for everyone at this historic site.
Here are five things you absolutely must do when visiting:
- Watch the Stephen Foster Story: There’s something magical about watching this classic musical under the open stars on warm summer evenings in Bardstown. There’s no better way to celebrate Stephen Foster’s life and works than in this beautiful amphitheater setting surrounded by lush trees. The show included more than 50 of this local icon’s musical works.
- Tour the Federal Hill Mansion: Take a guided tour of this centuries-old historic estate, with its stunning architecture, antique furnishings, and rich history. The tour promises “stories of deadly duels, horse racing, fortune, fame, and demise.” You can buy your tickets in advance, here.
- Explore the Gardens: After you’ve seen inside the mansion, be sure to take time to explore the curated gardens and grounds of My Old Kentucky Home State Park. There are plenty of pretty places to sit and relax or even have a picnic, as well as scenic trails to get your steps in.
- Take a Class or Bourbon Tasting: The park offers a list of fun events and classes, including culinary and mixology classes, guided bourbon tastings, and Murder Mystery dinners. These events are popular and often sell out, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Hit the Links: Known as one of the best golf courses in Kentucky, this 18-hole PGA professional course is a great stop for any golfer. The course was first opened in 1933 and continues to offer a challenging round.
Adding My Old Kentucky Home State Park to your Bardstown adventure promises a blend of history, culture, and recreation, making it an essential stop on your Kentucky travels. It’s the perfect outing to break up your tastings and tours at the local Bardstown distilleries, and it’s bound to be a memorable part of your vacation.
Book our Historic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast
For those interested in exploring the history of this area at My Old Kentucky Home State Park and watching The Stephen Foster Story come to life on stage, you’ll also absolutely love making our Bardstown bed and breakfast your home away from home. The historical significance of our mansion is apparent in the ancient bricks and architecture, making your stay all the more memorable and unique.
We offer ten luxurious and spacious guest rooms, each appointed with antiques and modern amenities. You’ll love the combination of the past and today’s needed comfort elements. Sit back and enjoy your favorite show together in a big, comfortable four-poster bed, or open a bottle of wine and sip by the warm glow of the electric fire. In the mornings, we invite you to join us in our elegant dining room for the delicious fare of Southern breakfast classes.
As one of the top-rated bed and breakfasts in Kentucky, you’ll we welcomed warmly by our dedicated service professionals with a smile. We take pride in our hospitality, and you’ll quickly feel more like family—we have many guests that we see year after year for annual celebrations, and this is always a big boost. Start planning your next getaway to Bardstown and book your lodging today!