Harrodsburg/Mercer County Tourism Commission

Sitting amidst four National Register Historic Districts in the heart of Kentucky's famed Bluegrass region is Kentucky's oldest town established in 1774; one of the coolest places in history. Harrodsburg is full of the unexpected. A full-scale replica fort in Old Fort Harrod State Park commemorates the first permanent settlement west of the Allegheny Mountains. Providing an up-close view of one of the most unique ecosystems in the country, the geologically ancient Kentucky River Palisades, is the authentic 115-passenger Dixie Belle sternwheeler. Numerous bourbon distilleries and wineries are a short drive away. There are horseback riding trails, backroads and byways for bicycle enthusiasts, and outdoor water sports from kayaking to skiing. Harrodsburg is home to Beaumont Inn, the state's oldest family-operated country inn (2015 James Beard Foundation “America's Classics” award winner), and Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill; 3,000 acres of discovery at America's largest restored Shaker community and one of BBC NEWS Magazine's “Five hidden US Travel Destinations.” Harrodsburg is one of Best Choice Reviews' “50 Best Small Town Downtowns in America”; and one of Smithsonian Magazine's “20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2014” the only Kentucky city on the list. Authentic, affordable, family-friendly and full of the unexpected. This is Harrodsburg.