Enjoy the river and small-town charm with a long weekend in Gallatin County, Ky.
By Corinne Minard
Sometimes you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One such escape is Gallatin County, Kentucky. There, you’ll find the outdoor recreation, local shops, homemade food and more that will help you reset after a busy week. Here are five ways to spend your time in Gallatin County.
1. Take some time to enjoy nature
For some time outdoors, head to Hartig Park and Wildlife Reserve in Warsaw, Kentucky. The park is Gallatin County’s newest recreational area and offers visitors over 500 acres of meadows, hills and hallows. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birding, kayaking, mountain biking and primitive camping. Only have a couple of hours to spare? Pack a picnic and eat your lunch at an overlook that provides amazing views of the Ohio River.
2. Explore the river
Looking for time on the water? With Gallatin County’s location on the Ohio River, you’ll find many opportunities. There are two marinas: Pier 99 and Smugglers Cove Marina. Both marinas offer covered slips for you to park your boat after time on the water, but Smugglers also offers pontoon and kayak rentals. Smugglers is also across the street from The Sunset Grill if you need to take a break for lunch or dinner.
3. Eat and drink local
If you’re looking for a true taste of Kentucky, look no further than Jewell’s on Main in Warsaw. The restaurant says it offers casual dining with Kentucky flare.
On the menu, you’ll find fried green tomatoes, catfish, Hot Browns, meatloaf, steak and other favorites. Make sure to save room for one of the desserts, such as the Derby Pie.
Bourbon fams will also find plenty to love. Stop by the Neely Family Distillery in Sparta to sample its bourbons and whiskeys or to take a tour to see how bourbon is made.
4. Shop for one-of-a-kind items
Gallatin County is also home to unique, local shops. There’s Sissy’s Boutique, a clothing and accessories store for women and teens; Ribbons & Roses, a florist and gift shop; and Maines Hardware, a hardware store that also sells antiques, toys, locally made honey and more.
5. Stay in a home away from home
When night falls, head to one of the region’s many bed and breakfasts for a good night’s rest. The Riverside Inn Bed and Breakfast is in a historic home that was built in 1869, has seven rooms with private baths and is right on the river. Another popular option is the Presley House, a fully renovated and restored 1842 house. In addition to hosting overnight guests, the house is also a wedding and event venue.
